Second Trimester 1^stTrimester     3^rd Trimester

In the brain, nerve cells are forming and moving from the central to the outer areas. As yet, any neural activity is still very immature.

The skin is quite smooth and has a reddish tinge, since there is very little underlying fat.

The gut is too immature to function properly but it can take in the tiny amounts of amniotic fluid that the baby swallows at infrequent intervals.

At 16 weeks the average crown to rump length is 3.4 in (8.7 cm) and the average weight is 1.52 oz (43 g).

Greater mobility in the hands means that the baby is able to suck her thumb.

Facial muscles have developed enough for the baby to make faces, such as frowning, although she has no control over her expressions.

Some days, you'll take huge pride in your emerging belly, on other days you may sigh for the loss of a trim figure. Enjoy your changing shape-you'll probably find that your partner loves it, too. For many couples, this can be a time of increased interest in sex. If you have any emotional or physical worries, there'll be an opportunity to discuss them with your doctor. Another prenatal checkup is likely to take place this week.

Excerpted from Pregnancy Day by Day.
Copyright © 2009 Dorling Kindersley Limited.
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