WEEK 16Trimester 2•Baby: Avocado
Musculoskeletal Ossification & Fine Motor Movement
Estimated Length11.6 cm
Estimated Weight100 g
Fetal Morphogenesis & Anatomy Highlights
- •Skeleton undergoing active endochondral ossification, visible on ultrasound.
- •Eyes face forward and begin slow conjugate movements; retinal vasculature forming.
- •Scalp hair patterning established; fine lanugo hair covers the skin to hold vernix caseosa.
- •Fetal heart pumps roughly 28 liters of blood per day through the fetoplacental unit.
Same-Day Assessment / Urgent Care
Week 16 Urgent Red Flags
Immediate clinical evaluation or presentation to Winnipeg Obstetric Triage (HSC / St. Boniface) is indicated if:
- •Sudden vaginal fluid gush (premature rupture of membranes)
- •Persistent severe headache or visual changes
- •Severe sharp abdominal pain unrelieved by position change
Women's Hospital HSC Triage: 204-787-8600 | St. Boniface: 204-237-2263
Clinician Perspective • Physiological & Screening Protocols
Maternal Physiological Adaptations
Fundus is palpable midway between pubic symphysis and umbilicus. Circulating plasma volume expanding by 30-40%.
Expected Clinical Symptoms
Energy rebound ('golden trimester')Nosebleeds or nasal congestion (rhinitis of pregnancy)Appetite increaseMild round ligament pain with position changes
Clinical Investigations & Screening Schedule
- ✓Maternal Serum Quad Screen if first trimester screening was missed.
- ✓Maternal Serum Alpha-Fetoprotein (MSAFP) for open neural tube defects (optimal window 15w0d to 20w6d).
- ✓Fetal heart Doppler check in clinic (normal: 110–160 bpm).
Upcoming Visit Horizon: Book 18–22 week detailed anatomical ultrasound.