Where is the fetus located at 16 weeks. Intrauterine development of the child at the sixteenth week of pregnancy

The 16th week from the moment of conception refers to the second trimester of pregnancy and corresponds to the 18th obstetric week. Ultrasound diagnostics allows you to track the formation of the fetus, comparing the data with the norm.

The main purpose of the procedure is the detection of pathologies caused by chromosomal abnormalities, severe defects. At this stage, the main organs and systems of the fetus reach sufficient sizes to detect violations. The size of the baby allows for a thorough examination and assessment of development.

At a period of 14 - 16 weeks, pregnant women are prescribed a planned study of hormonal status (PAPP-A, hCG, estriol, ACE). The procedure is aimed at detecting fetal abnormalities. If the examination revealed a hormonal imbalance, the doctor prescribes an ultrasound scan to the patient at the 16th week of pregnancy.

The procedure is prescribed by a doctor in a number of cases:

Poor results on the first screening test.
Negative hormone levels.
Suspicion of missed pregnancy.
Multiple pregnancy.
Complaints of a woman in pain.
Miscarriage, fetal defects in a previous pregnancy.
The presence of children born with genome pathology.
Pathologies of the development of the placenta, polyhydramnios or oligohydramnios in history.

Symptoms such as uterine tone, spotting are a reason for urgent hospitalization.

Important! A late diagnosis of a missed pregnancy can lead to serious consequences.

If the research data indicate a high probability of fetal malformations, the patient receives a referral for the study of amniotic fluid - amniocentesis.

Mother's condition and fetal development

Week 16 is marked by the first movements of the baby in the womb. Primiparous, overweight women usually feel fetal movements at a later date.

The tissues of the body accumulate fluid and sodium salts, which leads to swelling of the extremities. The kidneys of the expectant mother work with increased stress. The rapid growth of the uterus makes all systems and the most important organs work in an enhanced mode. There are pains in the lumbar region.

A baby at 16 weeks of pregnancy from conception demonstrates excellent abilities:

movement in the amniotic fluid;
swallowing amniotic fluid with respiratory movements.

The child has periods of sleep and wakefulness. The limbs of the baby have formed, the hands touch the tiny face, clenched into fists. The mother's emotions are transferred to the child, who may already be experiencing anxiety.

What are they watching?

A woman can receive a protocol and a photo of the ultrasound results at 16.17 weeks of pregnancy. Based on the data, the doctor forms a biophysical profile of the fetus.

Important! The presence of genetic abnormalities requires a woman to make a decision to terminate the pregnancy for medical reasons.

A sufficient size makes it possible to diagnose malformations of the child with a high probability, such as:

syndromes associated with genome disorders (Down, Edwards, other chromosomal abnormalities);
malformations of the heart, brain;
assessment of the size of tubular bones (shoulder, femur), nasal bone;
fruit size;
the amount of amniotic fluid;
localization of the placenta.

Proper intrauterine nutrition of the fetus depends on the state of the placenta.

Incorrect location of the organ (full presentation) requires prompt resolution of childbirth, restriction of motor activity and sexual activity.

An ultrasound specialist assesses the condition of the cervix, which should normally be closed.

Photo of the fetus: is it possible to determine the sex of the child?

There is a real opportunity to determine the sex of the baby on ultrasound. At week 16, the information is conjectural.

The fetus moves freely in the amniotic fluid. Fingers have formed on tiny arms and legs, which mom can see on the ultrasound photo. The child demonstrates magnificent facial expressions, reflexively grimacing and smiling. A yawning baby is a beautiful moment that a photograph can capture.

The genitals are not yet sufficiently developed, the boy's testicles are in the scrotum. The fallopian tubes, the uterus of the girl have already formed. With an unsuccessful location, the child can block the examination area with a leg or handle, which makes it difficult to determine the sex.

A specialized center equipped with high-precision equipment will most likely tell the mother who is preparing for the birth.

Photo of a boy

Photo girls

Research Norms: Fetal Size

Normal for 16 weeks of pregnancy of intrauterine development are considered fetal sizes from 14 to 20 cm with a weight of 140 to 230 g.

Diagnostics is performed in accordance with the established protocol and takes into account all the necessary parameters:

The number of fruits.
The cervix is at least 30 mm.
BDP (distance between the parietal tubercles) - 37 - 47 mm.
LZR (OFD, fronto-occipital size) - from 49 to 60 mm.
Exhaust gas (HC, head circumference) - 131 - 161 mm.
DP (HUM length of the humerus) - from 15 to 20 mm.
Coolant (AC, abdominal circumference) - about 122 mm.
DG (diameter of the chest) - about 41 mm.
The length of the femur (FML) is from 23 to 31 mm.
The size of the humerus is from 15 to 21 mm.
The bone of the forearm is from 17 to 23 mm.
Leg length - 23 - 31 mm.
The systolic-diastolic ratio in the umbilical artery (SDO) is from 4.55 to 4.67.
Heart rate (HR) - from 140 to 160 beats per minute.

The protocol records the condition, the degree of maturity of the placenta, the status of the cervix and pharynx, the tone of the uterus. The placenta at 16 weeks has zero maturity. Areas of infarction, calcifications should be absent. The specialist determines the compliance with the norm of amniotic fluid.

3D - ultrasound at 16 weeks: is screening carried out?

Modern ultrasound scanners with advanced capabilities provide a picture of the fetus in 3-D format, which allows the specialist and parents to observe a three-dimensional image of the baby. The procedure does not require special preparation and lasts up to 60 minutes. The method differs in data accuracy.

3D photo of the fetus

In the absence of abnormalities, a routine ultrasound examination is carried out between 18 and 22 weeks of embryonic development. In case of poor results of the first study, with an unfavorable hormonal status, the doctor recommends screening at 16 weeks.

The appointment is caused by the need to make a decision to terminate the pregnancy for medical reasons, or to preserve the fetus. The new data often refutes the fears raised by the results of the first screening.

How do they do it, do they need preparation?

At the 16th week of embryonic development, ultrasound is performed transabdominally. A sufficient amount of amniotic fluid eliminates the need to fill the bladder.

The belly is covered with a gel, the smooth transducer glides easily over the surface of the skin. The procedure does not require prior preparation.

Uncomfortable position of the fetus may necessitate a change in position. The woman will be asked to stand up and move around a little.

With the stubborn unwillingness of the fetus to change the position, the study can be rescheduled for another day. Placental diagnosis is performed vaginally to accurately determine the distance between the placenta and the cervix.

Where is the test done and how much does it cost?

The free procedure is carried out in the antenatal clinic as prescribed by the local doctor. To obtain accurate results, you can use the services of a specialized center staffed by qualified personnel and high-resolution equipment.

Centers for gynecology and obstetrics offer examinations costing from 1,000 to 1,500 rubles. The service includes dopplerometry, 3-D or 4-D examination with video recording on disk media. The usual two-dimensional ultrasound - the procedure costs from 600 to 800 rubles. A screening test to determine the hormonal status and substantiate the risk of defects will cost from 2,500 to 3,600 rubles.

Conclusion

Prenatal ultrasound at week 16 allows you to diagnose fetal anomalies with high certainty. Ultrasound examination is a safe, informative way to determine the well-being of the child and mother. Ultrasound of the 16th week of pregnancy answers all the questions of the first screening and hormonal testing. The event allows the doctor to timely adjust the tactics of pregnancy.

In these 7 days, the expectant mother is in a great mood. The baby continues to develop and gain strength. For some expectant mothers, the 16th week can be significant in that right now you will feel how your baby is moving.

Features of the development of the fetus

During the 16th week of pregnancy, the size of the fetus is as follows: weight is about 80 grams and growth (that is, in length) is about 11 centimeters.

This week the child is actively behaving, while the coordination of movements improves each time. The child's arms are already well developed, they have become longer, now he can reach the elbow of the other hand with his fingers. He is constantly actively tossing and turning, grabs his hands, moves his legs. The muscles of the neck have already formed, the baby holds his head straight if desired. The muscles of the face are also formed, he is already smiling, grimacing, frowning.

The baby swallows amniotic fluid, urinates, there is original feces in the intestines. That is, your baby has already formed a system of the gastrointestinal tract. The liver now, in addition to performing the function of hematopoiesis, is now also involved in digestion.

In girls at week 16, the ovaries descend into the hip region, eggs are actively produced in them.

The baby's skin is still translucent, but during this period, brown subcutaneous fat begins to be deposited, which then begins to fulfill its function, to produce heat. The body is currently completely covered with light hair. By the end of pregnancy, it should completely disappear, there are cases when a child is born with this hairline, it disappears a few weeks after birth.

The placenta is fully formed, now the placenta and the baby are a single whole organism. The lungs continue to form. In the meantime, the placenta is responsible for the respiratory system, that is, it transports oxygen from you to your baby and, of course, all other nutrients.

The blood of a child already contains all the cells, as in an adult. True, there is no hemoglobin yet, it is replaced by the so-called fetal hemoglobin. Hemoglobin in a child will be formed after he is born, in a month.

What happens in the female body?

Feelings are mostly pleasant. There is no toxicosis and the mood is wonderful. And, most importantly, what you can feel is the movement of the baby. The baby is most active when you are resting. So if you want to feel the baby move, lie down, put your hands on your stomach when the body is relaxed and you can probably feel it.

female tummy

Besides:

Your body continues to change, your uterus grows, your weight increases. The volume of blood increases. This week you should recover by about 500 grams. If you gain weight more than two kilograms, then this will indicate that you have started swelling of the limbs or the placenta, and this is dangerous for the child. But, you don’t need to worry, since you are registered with the antenatal clinic and regularly visit a gynecologist who will definitely notice changes and, in which case, recommend what needs to be done.
Due to the increase in blood volume, nosebleeds or nasal congestion may occur. If you have a nosebleed, throw your head back and it will go away.
During this period, you may feel short of breath. This is a normal feeling, don't worry. After all, your lungs are now working to the fullest to provide oxygen to you and your baby. If you feel attacks of suffocation, and these attacks cause blue lips, this indicates that your body can not cope with the load, then immediately consult a doctor.
Also, during these 7 days, a slight increase in blood pressure may appear. Due to the fact that the blood increases in volume and its circulation also increases, when a woman is worried, the pressure may be higher. Most often, a pregnant woman is worried when she sees a white coat, that is, she is afraid of the doctor. If you can't calm down, start measuring your blood pressure twice a day at home and bring the results with you at your next visit to the doctor.
The belly is already well marked. The uterus has increased in size up to 250 grams, is located about 7 centimeters below the navel.

One of the unpleasant sensations is heartburn, which occurs because the uterus grows and constantly presses on the intestines, causing a disturbance in the digestive tract.

Baby's first perceptible movements

The baby begins to move from the fifth week of pregnancy and over the course of all weeks its activity develops. He is very active in the womb. But, of course, the expectant mother cannot feel it, since it is still very small. In the period from the sixteenth to the twentieth week of pregnancy, the expectant mother may already feel how her baby is moving, since the uterus is in the abdominal cavity and the baby is already of such a size that it can make itself felt. But when exactly you feel it, this is already a matter of your sensitivity and attentiveness.

Of course, due to the small size of the fetus, you will not feel big kicks. It’s just that the baby’s activity is very large, it spins and spins, pushes off the walls of the uterus. And it is this activity that you can feel. As women who have already given birth say, the sensations are similar to the fluttering of butterflies in the stomach, and some associate with the work of the intestines.

Tests to be taken

The second trimester of pregnancy has already begun, and I still have toxicosis, nausea tortured me. I thought that at the 16th week of pregnancy there should no longer be toxicosis. How to be?
Yes, usually toxicosis recedes by week 16, when the placenta is already fully formed. But more and more often in obstetric practice, a slightly different picture is noticed, on average, by the 18-20th week of pregnancy, expectant mothers are just beginning, as they say, to fully eat and enjoy their “bellied position”. Polysorb, which is harmless to the fetus, will help alleviate the condition of a pregnant woman with severe toxicosis. However, like all sorbents, it is able to remove not only toxins from the human body, but also wash out useful substances from it, so such drugs should be taken with a difference of 1 hour from taking food or vitamins. Also, sorbents are not recommended for constipation, as they produce a fixing effect.

Water-like discharge. Amniotic fluid leakage at 16 weeks pregnant?
At the 16th week of pregnancy, the amount of discharge increases, so some expectant mothers mistakenly believe that amniotic fluid is leaking. To accurately determine whether this water is normal, but just abundant discharge characteristic of this period of pregnancy, a gynecologist will be able to take a smear from the cervix for elements of amniotic fluid.
Or you can buy a test pad at the pharmacy to determine the leakage of amniotic fluid. Please note that some pads of this type change their color to green-blue and with bacterial infectious secretions. This is also useful to know, but such a home test is not cheap. Only a laboratory analysis of a smear from the cervix, a gynecological examination and ultrasound can accurately determine.

We are expecting twins, but nowhere can we find information about the norms for the size of babies at 16 weeks with multiple pregnancies.
Each fetus should ideally be the size and weight of a singleton pregnancy - each 11-16 cm long from head to tailbone and 80-120 grams in weight. But usually babies do not develop in the same way, so for one, the coccyx-parietal length and weight can be, for example, 12 cm and 80 grams, and for the other, 15 cm and 100 grams.

Back pain at 16 weeks pregnant How to alleviate the condition?
With the development of pregnancy, the load on the woman's spine also increases. Therefore, to prevent lower back pain from aggravating, it is recommended to wear shoes at low speed. A semi-rigid mattress and a low pillow contribute to the normalization of the load on the spine. It is also important to sleep in the correct position: on the left side, slightly tucking up the legs at the knees.

Cold at 16 weeks pregnant: sore throat, coated tongue, but no temperature. How can you heal your throat?
During pregnancy, it is not recommended to take antibiotics for a cold, so an antiseptic, for example, Lysobact lozenges, will help you with a sore throat.

Sex at the 16th week of pregnancy in the "rider" position causes discomfort. What positions are safe and painless for a baby to have sex during pregnancy?
When choosing positions for sex during pregnancy, give preference to those in which the penetration is shallow and there is no pressure on the abdomen. The most suitable postures during pregnancy are the side, angle, and standing positions.

What concentration of hCG in the blood should be at the 16th obstetric week of pregnancy?
At the sixteenth obstetric week of pregnancy, the normal level of hCG in a singleton pregnancy is in the range of 14,000 - 80,000 mU / ml, according to the results of analyzes of the Invitro laboratory in your city. Each laboratory has different standards, which must be learned from "your" laboratory assistant.

According to the obstetric calendar, the 16th week of pregnancy falls on the fourth month of the "interesting position" of the woman. The second trimester is in full swing, and if everything goes on as usual, the woman blossoms more and continues to prepare for the inevitable motherhood.

Feel

Feelings at the 16th week of pregnancy, if it proceeds favorably and in accordance with all norms, are not overshadowed by any painful or unpleasant manifestations. Toxicosis is a thing of the past, frequent urination is also. The breast, preparing for lactation, continues to increase, but at the same time, the soreness, as a rule, already disappears. Against this background, the expectant mother seems to “come to life”: the hormonal background has been established in comparison with the early stages of pregnancy, therefore the woman becomes balanced and calmer, full of new strength and joy.

Starting from the 16th week of pregnancy, a woman often begins to feel how her appetite has increased. This is especially true for those mothers who at first suffered from toxicosis: now it’s just time to catch up and eat tasty and full, but at the same time watching the weight.

Surprisingly, but at the same time, it is pleasant that the sensations at the 16th week of pregnancy can be enriched by the first movements of a very tiny baby. Women who are pregnant again are more likely to feel the first movements of the baby: fetal movements in this case often occur 2-4 weeks earlier than during the first pregnancy. Often, the expectant mother does not even realize at first that they were the very first tangible movements of her beloved child: many women compare them with a slight flutter or sensations from air bubbles.

But, even if mom listens sensitively to her feelings, but does not feel any movements, you should not be upset about this. After all, some mothers have a more active baby, some have a calmer one, even with the same woman in different pregnancies, babies begin to noticeably move differently.

ultrasound

But, even if the woman does not yet feel the movements of the fetus, she can observe them during an ultrasound scan at the 16th week of pregnancy. When conducting an ultrasound examination, the monitor clearly shows how the baby moves, and even complements his movements with active grimacing. An ultrasound at the 16th week of pregnancy will show: the baby's facial expressions are unusually active - the baby is already frowning, grimacing, winking. And, besides, it becomes clear who is “building muzzles” in the mother’s tummy: ultrasound at the 16th week of pregnancy is quite capable of determining the sex of the baby.

fetus at 16 weeks pregnant

It’s a boy or a girl, but the fetus at the 16th week of pregnancy already reaches “decent” sizes: it is 11 cm long from the coccyx to the crown of the head, and weighs about 100-120 g.

The bones of the baby continue to strengthen - the legs become more developed, the nails are almost fully formed. The baby already holds the neck straight, can turn the head from side to side. At the same time, ears and eyes are getting closer to their “designated” location.

The baby's heart works at its maximum, pumping up to 25 liters of blood daily. Digestive functions are now performed by the liver, which was previously responsible for hematopoiesis. But gradually, the stomach, and with it the intestines, and the gallbladder, begin their functions, while still only carrying out "training" work. In the intestines of the fetus, for example, the first contents appear, which so far consists practically of bile. This is the original feces, meconium, which has a dark green or black-green color. Both the kidneys and the bladder of the crumbs are already fulfilling their purpose: every 45 minutes the fetus urinates.

From now on, the baby's bone marrow is responsible for hematopoiesis, and the composition of the blood is also fully formed. Now she is characterized by all those cells that are in the blood of an adult, the blood group and the Rh factor of the fetus are determined. At the same time, there is still a place in the blood for a special substance called fetal hemoglobin, or newborn hemoglobin. However, ordinary hemoglobin is already beginning to appear in the blood, only it will completely replace fetal hemoglobin only six months after the baby is born.

Analyzes

Week 16 is a crucial period for a woman who will now have a somewhat extended list of tests. In addition to the traditional urinalysis, pressure measurement, weight control, listening to the fetal heart, tests at week 16 are also desirable, which will detect or refute the presence of severe fetal developmental defects. More precisely, one test: a blood test that allows you to assess the levels in a woman's body of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and unconjugated estriol (NE).

The study of the levels of these substances in the body of a pregnant woman makes it possible with a high degree of probability to assume that the fetus has chromosomal abnormalities and gross developmental defects. So, deviations of AFP, hCG and NE from the norm may indicate the possibility of a baby having Down syndrome, craniocerebral hernia, anencephaly, and malformation of the spine. However, unfavorable analyzes by no means can be a reason for making a final diagnosis, but instead become a good reason for additional studies and analyses. For example, for amniocentesis.

Amniocentesis is an examination that involves taking a sample of amniotic fluid to study their composition. An analysis of amniotic fluids, the puncture of which is taken when a needle is inserted into the uterus under ultrasound control, makes it possible to diagnose about 40 congenital malformations. At the same time, amniocentesis can provoke quite serious complications of pregnancy - up to its termination and premature birth. Therefore, this test should be carried out exclusively by a highly qualified specialist, explaining to the woman on the eve of all the dangers of the procedure. A woman, in turn, can always refuse such a procedure at will.

pain

Despite the fact that toxicosis has already passed by the 16th week of pregnancy, and in general a woman feels better than the first weeks of pregnancy, some painful sensations can sometimes bother her. For example, complaints of pain at 16 weeks in the lower back are common. As a rule, they arise due to the increased load on the spine of the expectant mother. Given this, you should abandon the heels and, if possible, give the spine a rest as often as possible. Also, it will not be superfluous to choose a suitable position for sleeping. It is now impossible to sleep on the stomach a priori - pressure on the stomach must be excluded. But now you can’t sleep much on your back either: such a position can provoke pain at 16 weeks in the lower back. From now on, the most preferable position for sleeping is on the left side, with one knee slightly pulled up to the chest.

Uterus

The uterus at 16 weeks of pregnancy continues to increase due to the constant growth of the fetus: now its weight can reach 250 g. During the examination, the doctor always measures the height of the uterus, which at 16 weeks already reaches the level of half the distance to the navel. Such measurements are necessary to ensure the normal course of pregnancy and the normal development of the fetus. A woman can also already feel the "house" of her baby: the uterus at 16 weeks of pregnancy is palpable at a distance of about 7-7.5 cm below the navel. Gradually increasing in size, the uterus inevitably begins to put pressure on the intestines, which can provoke bloating, heartburn and constipation.

Belly at 16 weeks pregnant

Along with the increase in the uterus, the stomach also increases at the 16th week of pregnancy: at this time, the stomach already clearly protrudes forward. Moreover, if the pregnancy is the first, then the belly does not protrude as much as in repeated pregnancies - the muscles and ligaments of the abdomen and uterus are still in good shape and not stretched.

As the belly grows, a dark stripe can appear more and more clearly on it, which stretches down from the navel, dividing the belly into two halves. This is a consequence of the accumulation of melanin pigment in the skin, a temporary phenomenon that will pass on its own after childbirth. By the way, age spots can also occur on the forehead, on the cheeks, around the eyes and even on the bridge of the nose throughout pregnancy. They will also disappear after the baby is born - along with the brown stripe on the abdomen.

Allocations

The nature of the discharge at this time may change somewhat: discharge at the 16th week of pregnancy may be somewhat plentiful and have a whitish color. Do not be afraid: this situation is normal if the discharge at the 16th week of pregnancy has a uniform consistency, is not accompanied by itching and burning, and does not cause pain in the abdomen. It is enough just to keep the perineum and genitals clean and resort to regular hygiene procedures to prevent the development of infection.

Which will be indicated by a changed color (greenish, gray, with an admixture of mucus), consistency (heterogeneous and curdled, bubbling discharge) and an unpleasant smell of discharge. If the discharge at the 16th week of pregnancy has any of these signs, you should definitely consult a doctor: changes in discharge may be due to the appearance of thrush, colpitis or vulvitis. In this case, the pregnant woman will definitely be prescribed appropriate treatment.

Also, the alarm should be sounded if, at the 16th week of pregnancy, bloody or brown discharge suddenly appears, accompanied by a pulling sensation in the abdomen. Such signs indicate an increased risk of premature termination of pregnancy.

Sex at 16 weeks pregnant

The second trimester is perhaps the most suitable time for the revival of the intimate life of the spouses, if it was interrupted due to the woman's poor health in the first weeks of pregnancy. Sex at the 16th week of pregnancy, in the absence of any contraindications, is absolutely safe and can bring many new and vivid sensations to future parents. That's just when having sex, it is imperative to exclude pressure on the mother's stomach, choosing the most suitable positions for sex at the 16th week of pregnancy.

Weight and nutrition

Weight at the 16th week of pregnancy already usually exceeds the “initial” weight: in general, a woman often gains about 2.5 kg during this time. And in the future, weight must be monitored in a mandatory manner in order to avoid its excess by the end of pregnancy and difficult childbirth for this reason.

Among other things, proper nutrition will also help in this - the choice of food during the bearing of a baby should be approached with special attention. Nutrition at the 16th week of pregnancy, as in previous weeks, must be complete, with the optimal ratio of all nutrients and nutrients. If this has not been done before, it is advisable to develop a diet at the 16th week of pregnancy, which in the future will have to be strictly adhered to. The most optimal diet: 3-5 times a day in small portions, but the most nutritious and healthy food. Breakfast is a must, as is the first course at lunchtime, but dinner should be lighter. Snacking between main meals is best avoided - they affect unwanted weight gain.

It also makes sense to think about the additional intake of vitamin and mineral complexes: the need for nutrients has now increased significantly. Calcium and vitamin D are especially needed at this stage - you need to take one or another vitamin-mineral complex after discussing this step with your doctor.

Frozen pregnancy

Frozen pregnancy, which is more common in early pregnancy, can still overtake a woman in the second trimester. Moreover, just a period of 16 weeks, more precisely, the interval of 16-18 weeks, in this regard, is the most dangerous.

A frozen pregnancy at 16 weeks becomes a tragic event in the life of a woman who is already cherishing dreams of meeting her unborn baby. Pregnancy fading - intrauterine death of the fetus and further non-development of pregnancy - can occur for many reasons: this is intrauterine infection of the fetus, and chromosomal abnormalities that have formed in it, and the Rhesus conflict of the mother and baby, and the impact on the fetus of negative factors. Pre-fertilization abortions provoke intrauterine death of the fetus and the fading of pregnancy - such interventions lead to a significant change in the hormonal background, injure and often infect the cervix.

A frozen pregnancy is determined at 16 weeks when monitoring the growth of the uterus, and is confirmed during an ultrasound examination. So, ultrasound makes it possible to accurately establish the absence of a fetal heartbeat: at week 16, the baby does not always make itself felt with tangible movement, therefore an accurate confirmation of the absence of a heartbeat is necessary.

Unfortunately, a diagnosed missed pregnancy at 16 weeks must be terminated in a hospital and on an emergency basis. Otherwise, dangerous complications are possible - infection of a woman (a dead fetus provokes inflammation in the uterus), bleeding due to detachment of the fetal egg, which are difficult to stop. After a planned cleaning, a comprehensive and thorough examination will be needed to identify the cause of the pregnancy fading, as well as some time for the rehabilitation and recovery of the woman. It is not recommended to plan the next pregnancy for another half a year after the forced medical intervention due to the fading of the pregnancy.

Content

The kid has already grown up and got stronger enough, his organs and systems are actively developing, the skeleton is being formed, due to which he can already hold his head evenly. In girls, the laying of eggs occurs, the ovaries take their place in the pelvis, the amount of urine separated by the fetus gradually increases. This increases the amount of amniotic fluid, and speeds up the mother's metabolism in order to more actively remove the waste products of the fetus. The tummy has begun to grow and is already protruding a little, it's time to get screened for fetal malformations - a triple test. Very soon you will be able to feel the first stirrings.

What happens to the body at week 16

The sixteenth week of pregnancy corresponds to the second trimester, this is the fourth obstetric month. Now your position is becoming more and more noticeable, and soon you will reach the equator of pregnancy, there are only four weeks left. Now the tummy is already protruding a little, although in spacious clothes it is still imperceptible. Toxicosis completely stupefied, he was replaced by a good appetite and a period of weight gain. The waist is already rounded and smoothed, your spring look is gorgeous. Many women literally bloom, hair becomes thicker, nails become stronger. The baby is actively growing and developing, all the threats of the first trimester have passed, and you have become calmer. The placenta has formed and taken over the functions of producing hormones, and by this time supportive drugs (duphaston or utrozhestan) are usually canceled, vitamins and mineral supplements remain, calcium, iron and iodine can be prescribed.

Fetal development at the sixteenth week: weight, size and gender

The baby is already quite big - it is still measured from the crown of the head to the coccyx (KR of the fetus), which is about 11-12 cm, while he has already gained about 110-120 grams. Due to the active intake of calcium through the placenta, the skeleton is strengthened, the legs become longer than the handles, strengthen, nails form on the fingers of the limbs. Due to the formation of the vertebrae, the baby can already support the neck straight, and the head does not lean towards the chest. Gradually, the ears and eyes are approaching their rightful places, making the face more expressive and beautiful.

The internal organs are actively working - the heart pumps blood through the vessels, it can be up to 24 liters per day, and the liver has taken over the digestive functions instead of hematopoietic ones, and is now actively producing the first bile. The stomach and intestines are included in the work, the gallbladder joins them. So far, they digest only small portions of amniotic fluid, gradually forming meconium in the intestines, the original feces (it will only pass after childbirth). Meconium is made up of digested cells and amniotic fluid mixed with bile and is dark green or almost black in color. The kidneys are actively functioning, they supply urine to the bladder, which the baby releases into the amniotic fluid every 40-60 minutes. Due to this, the amount of amniotic fluid increases and they are actively updated up to ten times a day. The bone marrow is completely ready for work, and it has taken away the functions of hematopoiesis from the liver, now all blood cells are produced in the fetus, the blood group and the Rh factor are determined. there is a lot of special fetal hemoglobin circulating in the blood now to maintain sufficient oxygen, which will disappear immediately after birth. There is still little ordinary hemoglobin, since it is fetal hemoglobin that can carry many oxygen molecules.

The external genitalia are already well developed, and sex can be determined, girls are actively laying eggs in the ovaries, boys develop testicles, but they are located deep in the abdominal cavity and will descend into the scrotum closer to birth.

Feelings of the expectant mother

Now pregnancy feels like the most pleasant time - there is no more debilitating nausea and vomiting, you do not need to go to the toilet so often, soreness and sensitivity in the chest disappears, although the breast continues to grow, preparing for the feeding process. During the normal course of pregnancy, there are practically no unpleasant sensations. There is a sharp emotionality and anxiety, a feeling of eternal lethargy and drowsiness, strength and mood appear, a feeling of calmness and slowness comes. There are no sharp mood swings due to hormonal levels, the wife gradually plunges into her happy motherhood, forming a special “pregnancy dominant” in the brain. This is a special state of the body that directs all forces to a favorable outcome, protecting from unnecessary extraneous thoughts and feelings. Appetite appears after a long period of its almost complete absence due to toxicosis, the pregnant woman begins to eat well and gain weight, often not caring about her figure at all. But you need to be reasonable in food, so as not to gradually gain too much.

In this period, thin mothers or multiparous women can feel the first, barely noticeable movements of the fetus. They are so light that they are often mistaken for the work of the intestines, but gradually the mother learns to distinguish them from everything else. But if you don’t feel the movements yet, this does not mean that the process is proceeding incorrectly - children are different, and the time for feeling the first movements ranges from 16 to 20 weeks, you will soon feel them.

Condition of the uterus

The growth of the uterus is intensive and it has reached a weight of 250 grams, while it is already well felt through the abdominal wall, as it has risen from the scarlet pelvis, now its bottom is determined approximately 7 cm below the navel. At each appointment, the doctor will determine the standing of the bottom, and compare it with the term. Also, the doctor will feel the tone and consistency of the uterus, determine the position of the fetus and parts of its body. Measurements of the circumference of the abdomen are also made, which also have a certain growth dynamics. The growth of the uterus leads to pressure on the intestines and its displacement towards the spine. This can disrupt its normal peristalsis and lead to bloating, heartburn, or constipation.

The growth of the uterus leads to the appearance of a small rounded tummy, distinctly protruding forward. During the first pregnancy, the tummy may be smaller, and during repeated pregnancies, it is usually more visible due to the extensibility of the abdominal muscles and ligaments. The pigment line from the pubis to the navel appears more clearly, it will be with you until the birth, and then it will gradually disappear.

Ultrasound at 16 weeks

One of the most exciting events for expectant parents every time is an ultrasound. It helps to see the baby, to see his body parts and face, movements, movements and reactions to external stimuli. The baby can already express dissatisfaction or joy with facial expressions. The sex is determined, it is also possible to see the baby during a 3D ultrasound. The doctor measures certain indicators on ultrasound - height and weight, the amount of amniotic fluid, the girth of the head and chest, the length of the bones. This gives an idea of the correct development and timing. The doctor also carefully examines the structure of the placenta and the place of its attachment, the walls of the uterus and the area of its neck, the blood flow in the umbilical cord.

Discharge from the genital tract

The abundance of secretions increases somewhat, but they are still whitish or transparent, of a uniform consistency and practically odorless. This is a way to protect the cervix from penetration of an infection from the vagina into it, there should not be any discomfort with such secretions. If there is a burning sensation in the genital or vaginal area, itching and redness, pain in the lower abdomen - this may be a sign of infections. Signs of infections can also be a change in the consistency of the discharge - it can be cheesy or heterogeneous, the appearance of green, yellowish or gray color, mucus, lumps or foam in the discharge, as well as the appearance of an unpleasant odor. The probability of colpitis or vulvovaginitis is also not excluded. All of them require immediate treatment in order to exclude the penetration of infection into the fetal membranes.

Personal hygiene and washing of the genitals is especially important for the prevention of violations of the vaginal microflora. It is necessary to wear exclusively breathable natural underwear.

Dangerous can be brown discharge, indicating the appearance of blood. This may be due to erosion, placental abruption, or other threats. Bloody discharge or the appearance of red blood is especially dangerous; this may be a placental abruption or a sign of an abortion. An ambulance must be called immediately.

What tests to take

At week 16, you will have to take tests, and these are not only standard blood and urine, but blood biochemistry, coagulation. A screening blood test (triple test) is also prescribed, in which the levels are determined:

AFP (alpha-fetoprotein),
hCG level,
the level of NE (unconjugated estriol).

Progesterone is no longer determined, since its level is indicative and does not provide important information. But the previous indicators, if there is a significant deviation from the norm, sometimes indicate a deviation in the development of the fetus, they suggest the presence of malformations or developmental defects, chromosomal abnormalities, anencephaly, Down syndrome, craniocerebral hernia or defects in the spine. But only the data of analyzes is not a sentence, they can be wrong. However, deviations in these analyzes indicate the need for additional invasive diagnostic methods. These include amniocentesis - sampling of amniotic fluid for a detailed study of the composition.Under ultrasound control, a puncture of the uterus is performed with the introduction of a needle and sampling of material, which makes it possible to identify up to 40 different malformations. However, such a study is associated with the risk of termination of pregnancy, therefore, this test is decided only with serious suspicions and the question of the future fate of the pregnancy. If a woman does not want to conduct it, she has the right to refuse.

Pain in the abdomen and lower back

Usually in this period there are no painful sensations in the abdomen or lower back, since the abdomen is still small and the center of gravity is not greatly displaced. However, discomfort may occur, extending to the right side or left, due to the tension of the wide ligaments of the uterus. These sensations are weak, inconsistent and disappear after changing the position of the body.

When wearing shoes with heels, long standing work or health problems, lower back pain can occur. In such cases, you need to rest as much as possible, raising your legs or lying down. It is worth choosing a comfortable sleeping position for yourself, now you can’t sleep on your stomach, you can sleep on your back or on your side. Sometimes sleeping on your back can cause back pain and dizziness.

Pain in the lower abdomen of a cramping nature can be dangerous - these can be signs of uterine tone or inflammation of the bladder. It is worth visiting a doctor and being examined.

Cold and runny nose

At this time, the placenta is already actively functioning and does not allow viruses and microbes to pass to the fetus, so at this time the cold is no longer so terrible. But in itself, a runny nose, cough and fever can be dangerous in terms of negative effects on the baby, including due to medication. With a cold, if the temperature rises, strict bed rest and a doctor's call are necessary, only a doctor can prescribe treatment. Mandatory fight against the common cold, as shortness of breath leads to fetal hypoxia. Cough is no less dangerous, due to the tension of the anterior abdominal wall, it can cause an increase in the tone of the uterus.

Diet

By this time, you can add about two to three kilograms, although so far the weight can be restored even after loss due to toxicosis of the first trimester. From this period, the weight will arrive quickly enough due to a good appetite, but you should not gain too much weight either, especially with a tendency to be overweight. In this regard, proper nutrition becomes relevant.

It also requires a full four or five meals a day in small portions with light snacks between main meals. for a pregnant woman, a full hot breakfast, lunch with a first course, should be mandatory, but dinner can be made lighter. Between meals, it is good to consume plenty of fruits and vegetables, juices and dairy products. If you really want to eat, you can drink kefir or yogurt at night.

There are no strong dietary restrictions, only alcohol is strictly prohibited. Strongly salty and spicy dishes should be gradually excluded from the diet, they provoke thirst and puffiness. You should also avoid smoked fried foods, heavy for digestion, marinades and pickles, a large number of sweets and flour dishes. It is worth giving up carbonated drinks and fast food products, they will not bring benefits, and there are an excess of calories in them, they give bloating and heartburn. Food poisoning is especially dangerous for a pregnant woman, so you need to eat only fresh food, carefully check all the expiration dates of the products, its good quality in appearance and smell. In the diet, meat and fish dishes, vegetables and fruits, dairy products, eggs, cheeses are required.

Additional nutritional supplements of vitamin-mineral complexes are shown, with special attention to such substances as iodine, iron, magnesium and calcium.

Sex in the sixteenth week

If the pregnancy proceeds without complications, sexual relations between partners are not prohibited, they will bring new sensations and diversify the life of a pregnant woman. This is a favorable time for making love, the tummy is still small and does not interfere with sex, the choice of positions largely depends on your preferences. Do not be afraid to harm the baby, it is reliably protected by the cervix and amniotic fluid, and the release of pleasure hormones will benefit both the mother herself and her baby. Feelings during sex can change for the better - fear disappears, a woman becomes more relaxed and sensual, due to the blood supply to the genitals. Feelings may be more intense.

Contraindications for sex at 16 weeks may be the threat of abortion, isthmic-cervical insufficiency or low placentation with the threat of detachment.

Signs of a missed pregnancy

Frozen pregnancy is a stop of intrauterine development of the fetus at a certain period, usually this occurs in the early stages of pregnancy, but it is not excluded at 16-18 weeks. with a missed pregnancy, the child dies in utero as a result of infection, chromosomal pathology or developmental anomalies that are incompatible with life, the influence of external negative factors. This is a difficult test for any woman.

With a frozen pregnancy, the stomach stops growing and the bottom of the uterus rises, the sensations in the chest disappear, the fetal heartbeat is not heard and its movements are not noted. If there are exact signs of a missed pregnancy, it is necessary to terminate it, since the dead fetus can become a source of infection for the uterus and the mother's body. Carry out the procedure of artificial abortion for medical reasons. In the future, long-term rehabilitation and planning of pregnancy at least a year later is necessary.

Mom at 16 weeks pregnant

The immunity of the expectant mother has two main enemies: stress and infectious diseases. The fact is that you have to bear a child for 9 months - during this period, several seasons will have time to change, dangerous both in terms of the development of infectious diseases and in terms of viral infection. Ways to prevent infections have been well known since childhood: wash hands with soap, thoroughly wash vegetables, fruits and berries, visit less crowded places during rampant influenza or acute respiratory infections, and if this is not possible, wear a respiratory bandage, walk more in the fresh air.

Start hardening the body, as this procedure will increase your energy potential. Scientists have found that hardened mothers are more adapted to the stresses (mental and physical) associated with bearing a child, they are much easier to experience labor pain. Hardening strengthens the cardiovascular system, activates the gastrointestinal tract, the body's cleansing system, has a beneficial effect on the nervous system, and improves the metabolic process.

Although all this happens in the mother's body, it is important for your crumbs, as it significantly improves developmental conditions. Good types of hardening are permissible physical activity, swimming, dousing with water, and a contrast shower. A slight drop in temperature in the abdomen during swimming, a contrast shower or dousing with water will give the Baby new sensations, as well as active movements. The fact is that the skin of a very tiny person is a very sensitive organ, and the signals coming from it train brain activity in their own way.

Be sure to walk at a comfortable pace, because walking is not only a source of energy for you, but also a source of oxygen for the Baby. Oxygen nourishes the brain cells and thus contributes to the development of the most important organ. And what parents do not dream of their child being smart and intelligent?

For a growing Baby, measured swaying while walking with his mother is a training of the vestibular apparatus and at the same time a way ... to sleep sweetly (in the future, such a wonderful state when the Baby sleeps at his mother's body, and your hands remain free, can only be achieved with the help of sling).