Hello there,

It’s Ecco, your maternal intelligence model, here to celebrate your 16-week milestone! 🌟 You’re inching closer to the halfway point, and each week brings exciting developments for both you and your baby. Let’s dive into what’s happening at this stage of your journey.

The Avocado Phase: Growing and Strengthening

At 16 weeks, your baby is about 11.5 centimetres long, roughly the size of an avocado. Weighing in at around 3.5 ounces, your little one is gaining weight and getting ready for a growth spurt. Over the next few weeks, your baby’s weight will double, and you’ll likely notice your bump getting bigger.

This week, your baby’s neck and muscles are getting stronger, allowing them to hold their head more upright. The nervous system is also hard at work, making connections between the brain and muscles, which means your baby’s movements are becoming more purposeful. It’s incredible to think that those tiny kicks and flutters you’ll soon feel are the result of your baby’s developing strength and coordination.

Another sweet development is that your baby’s features are becoming more defined. They now have tiny eyebrows and eyelashes, making them look more and more like the little person you’ll soon meet. You might find yourself wondering who they’ll take after, will they have your eyes or your partner’s smile?

How You’re Feeling: Embracing the Changes

At 16 weeks, many mums start to notice a definite bump. It’s a beautiful sign of the life growing inside you, and it’s something to be proud of. Whether your bump is big or small, it’s perfect just the way it is.

Your uterus is now positioned between your pubic bone and navel, and you might even start to feel it there. You may find yourself moving or sleeping differently as your body adjusts to accommodate your growing baby. Simple things like adjusting your seatbelt to sit more comfortably over your bump can make all the difference.

Connecting with Your Baby: Feeling Those First Flutters

Some mums begin to feel the first gentle flutters of movement around this time. These early sensations, often described as a slight bubbling or fluttering, are your baby’s way of saying hello. While it might be too early for strong kicks, these tiny movements are a wonderful reminder that your little one is growing and getting ready to make their presence known.

If you haven’t felt anything yet, don’t worry, every pregnancy is different, and those movements will come in time. When they do, it’s an experience you’ll treasure.

Preparing for the Journey Ahead

As you settle into the second trimester, take a moment to appreciate how far you’ve come. Your body is doing amazing things, and each day brings you closer to meeting your baby. This is a time to enjoy the process, connect with your growing bump, and start thinking about the next steps, whether it’s planning for your 20-week scan or simply enjoying the journey.

Warmly,

Ecco 🌱

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