Many consider the start of the second trimester to be one of the most fun and exciting stages of pregnancy. During weeks 13 to 16 of pregnancy many women begin to have more energy as the early symptoms of pregnancy start to subside.
Your baby will grow from the size of a peach to about the size of an avocado. Major organs are still developing, facial features are more defined and the baby begins to make small movements inside the womb.
In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about pregnancy weeks 13 to 16 including baby size, symptoms, foetal development, body changes, and important pregnancy care tips.
13–16 Weeks Pregnant: What to Expect
The second trimester starts at week 13 and ends at week 16. This stage is important as the baby keeps growing fast while many mothers start adjusting physical and emotional to pregnancy.
Quick Summary
| Pregnancy Week | Baby Size | Big Development |
|---|---|---|
| Week 13 | Peach | Development of bones and voice cords |
| Week 14 | Lemon | Start facial expressions |
| Week 15 | Apple | The baby begins to hear sounds |
| Week 16 | Avocado | Muscles and limbs get stronger |
By the end of Week 16, your baby’s body is more proportionate and movements are more active.
Pregnancy Week 13 Baby Development & Symptoms
Week 13 marks the beginning of the second trimester.
13 Week Baby Size
Your baby is about the size of a peach now.
Baby Development Week 13
This week’s:
- Bones keep getting harder
- Vocal cords start to develop
- The baby is able to swallow amniotic fluid
- Finger prints start to develop
- Facial muscles still developing
Pregnancy Symptoms Week 13 Common
1. More Power
Many women start to feel less tired.
2. Less Morning Sickness
Nausea often starts to improve during this stage.
3. Hunger increase
You might start eating more.
4. Visible Baby Bump
Some women start to get a little baby bump.
5. Changes in the breast
Breasts may continue to grow and become sensitive.
Week 14 Pregnancy Symptoms and Baby Development
Many women begin to feel more comfortable in what is often called the “honeymoon phase” of pregnancy, or week 14.
Baby Size week 14
Your baby is the size of a lemon.
Baby Development Week 14
Major developments include:
- Facial expressions start to develop
- More defined appearance of neck
- Hair growth
- The baby can suck in a sucking motion
- Kidneys start producing urine
Typical Week 14 Pregnancy Symptoms
1. Congested Nose
Hormonal changes can lead to a blocked nose.
2. Round Ligament Ache
You may have a little abdominal pain from the stretching of ligaments.
3. Increased appetite
The body requires more nutrients for baby growth.
4. Radiant Skin
That pregnancy glow is probably caused by increased blood flow.
5. Light Headaches
Changes in hormones and blood pressure can bring on headaches.
Pregnancy Symptoms At 15 Weeks & Baby Development
During Week 15, your baby continues to grow quickly and become more active.
Baby Size Week 15
Your baby is roughly the size of an apple.
Week 15 Baby Development
This week:
- The baby begins to hear sounds
- Legs are longer than arms
- Bones continue to strengthen
- Scalp hair pattern starts to develop
- Muscle becomes stronger
Common Pregnancy Symptoms at 15 Weeks
1. Cramping of the legs
Muscle cramps can occur, especially at night.
2. Acid Reflux
Pregnancy hormones can slow down digestion.
3. Inflamed gums
Hormones can influence your gums.
4. Giddiness
Changes in blood pressure may cause lightheadedness.
5. Weight gain
Pregnancy weight gain is healthy and becomes more apparent.
16 Weeks Pregnant: Symptoms and Foetal Development
16 Weeks Pregnant Many women begin to feel more attached to their pregnancy.
Baby Size at Week 16
Your baby is the size of an avocado.
Baby development at 16 weeks
Key developments:
- Muscles and limbs grow stronger
- Eyes start to move slowly
- Improved facial expressions
- The baby can hold the head a little straighter
- Small nails grow out
Common Symptoms of Pregnancy in Week 16
1. Pain in the back
Your growing belly can put strain on your back muscles.
2. Increased Hunger
The demand for energy continues to grow.
3. Changes in Skin
Some women get patches of dark skin.
4. Gentle Baby Movements
Some mothers can feel early fluttering movements.
5. Constipation
Digestion may slow during pregnancy.
Weeks 13–16 Baby Growth
The second trimester is a time of important growth and development.
Important Milestones
- Bones get stronger
- Facial features are more defined
- You start to develop hearing
- Enhancing muscles
- Limbs get longer
- Improved reflexes
Your baby is still getting more and more active each week.
Normal Body Changes, Weeks 13–16
Your body is still getting used to supporting pregnancy.
Physical Changes
- Baby bump development
- Weight loss
- Weight gain
- Breast augmentation
- Changes in skin
Changes in Feelings
- Enthusiasm
- Anxiety disorders
- Mood changes
- Emotional Awareness
The main reason for these symptoms is still hormonal changes.
Tips for a Healthy Pregnancy: Weeks 13–16
Taking care of yourself in the second trimester is very important.
1. Keep Taking Prenatal Vitamins
Iron and folic acid remain important for the development of the baby.
2. Consume Healthy Food
Zero in on:
- Fruit
- Vegetable
- Proteins
- Whole grain
- Products made from milk
3. Drink lots of water
Drink lots of water every day.
4. Gentle Exercise
Prenatal yoga and walking may help with circulation.
5. Go to Prenatal Appointments
Regular checkups track baby’s growth.
6. Get plenty of rest
You still need extra rest when pregnant.
When to See a Doctor
Call your healthcare provider if you develop:
- Profuse bleeding
- Intense stomach pain
- High temperature
- Sudden severe dizziness
- Burning when urinating
Prompt medical attention can help promote a healthy pregnancy.
Conclusion
Exciting changes for both mother and baby come with weeks 13 to 16 of pregnancy. Your baby is now about the size of a peach, growing to the size of an avocado. Muscles and bones continue to grow rapidly, as do facial features and hearing.
Most women start to feel more energetic in the second trimester, but they may still have an increased appetite, mild headaches, body aches, and emotional changes. Eating healthy foods, staying hydrated, attending prenatal appointments and getting enough rest can help support a healthy pregnancy.
Every pregnancy is different and symptoms can vary from woman to woman. But if you are worried about your pregnancy symptoms, the best thing you can do is to always talk to your health care provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does my baby look like at 16 weeks pregnant?
Baby is about the size of an avocado at 16 weeks.
Will the second trimester be easier than the first?
Many women have less nausea and more energy in the second trimester.
Do you feel the baby kick at 16 weeks?
Some women will begin to feel small fluttering movements at this time.
Is it normal to gain weight at 13–16 weeks?
Yes. During the second trimester you will observe a healthy weight gain.
Why do I get hungry more often when pregnant?
More nutrients and energy are needed to support baby growth.
