15Th month of pregnancy

15 Weeks Pregnant | Pregnancy

When you're pregnant, you have lots of questions. Our week-by-week pregnancy guide is packed with lots of useful information. From what's happening inside your body, to how your baby is developing, and tips and advice on having a healthy pregnancy – this is your one-stop pregnancy guide!

1st trimester
2nd trimester
3rd trimester

Our week-by-week pregnancy guide is full of essential information. From staying fit in pregnancy to advice on your maternity rights, you'll find it all here.

Week 13
Week 14
Week 15
Week 16
Week 17
Week 18
Week 19
Week 20
Week 21
Week 22
Week 23
Week 24
Week 25
Week 26
Week 27

If you use public transport, you might want to order a “Baby on Board” badge to prompt other commuters into giving up their seat for you. You might feel fine now, but as you get bigger, you will be more unstable on your feet, and falling over could be stressful and even dangerous.

What's happening in my body?

Your baby is growing quickly and comes with a lot of packaging (the amniotic sac and fluid) and their own food supply (placenta). You could start getting the odd jabbing pain on the sides of your bump. This is known as "round ligament pain", putting your feet up and resting can help.

Your skin could also feel a bit itchy. It might help to use an unperfumed moisturiser, wear loose cotton clothing and have a cool bath. If the itching gets worse especially at night, talk to your doctor or midwife. Read about itching in pregnancy on the NHS website.

Changes in your pants

Have you noticed a lot of discharge in your pants? Many women get this. There's more blood flowing around your pelvic area and that can cause your body to produce more of the milky fluid called leucorrhoea that keeps your vagina clean and free from infection. See your doctor or midwife if:

it changes colour – it should be clear, white or creamy
it smells bad – it should smell slightly musky, not strongly of fish or anything else
it changes texture – for example, it starts going frothy or looks like cottage cheese
you get pain when peeing
you feel itchy or sore

Thrush

If you have a vaginal infection, it's likely to be thrush, which is a common yeast infection.

Signs include a lumpy white discharge, itching around your vagina, and stinging when you pee or have sex.

To help prevent thrush:

wear loose cotton underwear

use unperfumed soap or body wash

steer clear of sex until it's cleared up

There are more tips to beat thrush on the NHS website.

2nd trimester pregnancy symptoms (at 15 weeks)

Your pregnancy symptoms may include:

swollen and bleeding gums (read about gum health in week 13)
pains on the side of your belly, caused by your expanding womb (known as "round ligament pains")
headaches
nosebleeds
feeling bloated (read how to cope with bloating on week 10's page and constipation)
indigestion and heartburn (read how to cope with indigestion and heartburn on week 25's page)
sore breasts
leg cramps
feeling hot
dizziness
swollen hands and feet
urine infections
vaginal infections
darkened skin on your face or brown patches – this is known as chloasma or the "mask of pregnancy"
greasier, spotty skin
thicker and shinier hair

You may also experience symptoms from earlier weeks, such as:

morning sickness (read morning sickness advice on week 5's page, weird pregnancy cravings)
a heightened sense of smell
mood swings (read about dealing with mood swings on week 8's page)
a white milky pregnancy discharge from your vagina and light spotting (seek medical advice for any bleeding)

Read Tommy's guide to common pregnancy symptoms.

What does my baby look like?

Your baby, or foetus, is around 10.1cm long from head to bottom, which is about the size of an apple. The weight is around 70g, which is the same as a small bag of salad.

Your baby has been busy growing a soft layer of hair, called "lanugo", all over their body. Their eyebrows and eyelashes are also starting to develop. Your baby's eyes are now sensitive to light.

Around now, your baby will start hearing too. Talk to your baby and they will probably hear you. They will also hear your heartbeat and any noises made by your digestive system.

Action stations

Many women will tell their employer after they've had their first pregnancy scan at around 12 weeks. Once you tell your employer, you have maternity rights and can attend antenatal appointments during paid work time. You can also ask for a risk assessment of your workplace to ensure that you're working in a safe environment.

It's a good time to tone up your pelvic floor muscles. Gentle exercises can help to prevent leakage when you laugh, sneeze, cough or jump. Get the muscles going by pretending that you're having a wee and then stop the "urine" in midflow. Visit Tommy's for more ideas about pelvic floor exercises.

Ask your midwife or doctor about online antenatal classes – they may be able to recommend one. The charity Tommy's has lots of useful information on antenatal classes and preparing you for birth.

Even if you've had children before, they're still worth going to as you can meet other parents-to-be. The NCT offers online antenatal classes with small groups of people that live locally to you.

To keep bones and muscles healthy, we need vitamin D. From late March/early April to the end of September, most people make enough vitamin D from sunlight on their skin. However, between October and early March, you should consider taking a daily vitamin D supplement because we cannot make enough from sunlight.

Some people should take a vitamin D supplement all year round, find out if this applies to you on the NHS website. You just need 10 micrograms (it's the same for grown-ups and kids). Check if you're entitled to free vitamins.

It's recommended that you do 150 minutes of exercise a week while pregnant. You could start off with just 10 minutes of daily exercise - perhaps take a brisk walk outside. Check out Sport England's #StayInWorkOut online exercises (scroll to the pregnancy section). Listen to your body and do what feels right for you.

There's no need to eat for 2. You don't need any extra calories until the 3rd trimester, which starts in week 28. Try to eat healthily, with plenty of fresh fruit and veg, and avoid processed, fatty and salty foods. You may be able to get free milk, fruit and veg through the Healthy Start scheme.

You and your family should follow the government and NHS guidance on coronavirus (COVID-19):

read government guidance on how to stay safe from COVID-19

get NHS advice about COVID-19

use the NHS COVID-19 app for England and Wales – it's the fastest way of knowing when you've been exposed to COVID-19

To find out about about COVID-19 and pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding, have a look at advice on the:

NHS website

Breastfeeding Network

World Health Organization

Go back to week 14

Go to week 16

Baby and You at 15 Weeks Pregnant: Symptoms & Development

Key Takeaways at 15 Weeks Pregnant

You’re hopefully in the “honeymoon” phase of pregnancy—meaning most unpleasant symptoms have faded and you’re feeling less tired and more human.
Depending on your pre-pregnancy weight, you probably need about 300 extra calories per day. So, yes, you’re eating for two-ish—with some restrain.
If this is your first pregnancy, you may have a tiny visible bump. If it’s a subsequent pregnancy, you may be showing off a bigger belly already.
The Multiple Marker Screen (MMS, a.k.a. Triple or Quad Screen Test) may be happening in the next week or so. These give a risk assessment for certain neural tube defects and chromosomal abnormalities.

Feeling sexy? Now that you’re 15 weeks pregnant, you’re probably feeling high energy, and that may mean high libido, too. Don’t worry, baby has no idea what’s going on and—as long as your OB hasn’t given you any activity restrictions—sex won’t hurt baby or threaten your pregnancy.

Baby at Week 15

You probably can't feel it yet, but a 15 weeks pregnant ultrasound would reveal that baby's squirming a ton in there, now that they’re able to move all their limbs and joints! Baby might even be hiccupping inside your 15 weeks pregnant belly.

How big is baby at 15 weeks?

At 15 weeks pregnant, baby is as big as a navel orange. The average 15-week fetus weighs 2.5 ounces and measures 4 inches—and baby's proportions are becoming even more normal, since their legs now outmeasure their arms.

15 weeks pregnant is how many months?

When you're 15 weeks pregnant, you're three months pregnant. Keep in mind that pregnancy is 40 weeks long, though, meaning pregnancy is actually a bit longer than nine months—that’s why doctors track pregnancy by week, not month.

15 week ultrasound

If you’ve chosen to do a Multiple Marker Screen (MMS, a.k.a. Triple or Quad Screen Test), you’ll have blood drawn between week 15 pregnancy and week 20. This screening measures levels of certain proteins and hormones in a mom-to-be’s blood to give her an assessment of baby’s risk of neural tube defects and chromosomal abnormalities.

Amniocentesis is another elective test—it happens between weeks 15 and 20. This invasive test can diagnose neural tube defects, chromosomal abnormalities and other genetic disorders. It’s considered safe overall but does pose some risks, so talk it over with your doctor to decide whether or not you’ll have the procedure. You may choose an amnio if you have an abnormal triple or quad test or if baby has a higher risk of genetic abnormalities.

For the amnio, the doctor will use the ultrasound to see inside your 15-week pregnant belly and will guide a needle into the amniotic sac to gather a sample of fluid to be tested. All these tests can be stressful; in between, find some time to pamper yourself. You deserve it!

Can you find out baby’s sex at 15 weeks pregnant?

It’s a little too early to learn whether you’re having a boy or girl from a 15-week ultrasound—you’ll get a much more definitive answer between 18 and 20 weeks.) But if you decide to get an amnio test, you can find out baby’s sex as part of the results.

3D Views: My Baby, My Body

See their progress for yourself with our 3D interactive tool.

See My Baby in 3D

See My Body in 3D

Pregnancy Symptoms at Week 15

Are your 15 weeks pregnant symptoms hot…or not? Here’s a bit of what you might be experiencing, from sexy (increased libido) to not-so-sexy (nosebleeds and stomach issues) at week 15 pregnancy.

Increased sex drive

Now that your energy is back, you may be feeling more energetic in the bedroom as well. Of course, with all the other 15 weeks pregnant symptoms you may be feeling, if you’re not up to sex, it’s completely understandable.

Nosebleeds

This not-so-lovely symptom is thanks to a combination of increased blood volume and sensitive nasal passages. It’s more inconvenient than anything; nosebleeds are usually harmless, but if it seems very heavy, call your doctor.

Heartburn, gas and/or indigestion

Blame these tummy troubles on the hormones. Pay attention to foods that are triggering your symptoms and try to avoid them. Also, talk to your doctor about what stomach remedies are safe. Stock up on some antacids, which are doubly awesome because they have lots of much-needed calcium!

Swollen gums

Your gums are more sensitive now that you’re pregnant. Take extra good care of them. Brush your teeth often and floss gently. Continue regular dental visits.

Shortness of breath

Notice that you’re easily winded? Let’s face it: It’s getting more crowded in your torso. That means it might be trickier for your lungs to expand enough to get a full breath.

If you’re 15 weeks pregnant with twins, your symptoms probably aren’t much different than they would be for a mom carrying one baby at 15 weeks. However, because higher hormone levels in trimester one may have made you more likely to have morning sickness, you may still be having bouts of nausea, which should begin to lessen soon. Let your OB know if you have any severe or concerning symptoms.

How should I feel at 15 weeks pregnant?

Wondering what you should be feeling at 15 weeks pregnant? You’re probably feeling great! If you’ve been physically active and eating healthy, nutritious food, that goes a long way toward boosting your mood and energy and maintaining a healthy weight gain. While you may experience some of the common 15 weeks pregnant symptoms, you are also at a point where you may be ready to tackle all the tasks ahead of you to prepare for baby. Getting maternity clothes, putting together your baby registry, planning the nursery—enjoy this incredibly special time of anticipation!

Your Pregnant Belly at 15 Weeks

Your 15 weeks pregnant belly is making a big transition. During the first trimester, your uterus still fit nicely inside your pelvis. But now, it’s stretching to accommodate your growing baby and will soon outgrow your pelvis and sit higher up in your belly. Every mom-to-be’s body is different, and the rate of growth can vary slightly. That’s why at week 15 of pregnancy, it’s completely normal to not show much, or have an obvious baby bump. For example, a 15 weeks pregnant belly for a first pregnancy could take a little longer to begin to stick out. For the second pregnancy and beyond, the uterus has already been stretched, so you might have a bump a little earlier in repeat pregnancies.

If you’re 15 weeks pregnant with twins, things are probably stretching out at a faster rate, and you’re likely showing by now.

Recommended 15 weeks pregnant weight gain is about 1 to 2 pounds per week, so continue to eat about 300 extra calories per day—and try to make them healthy calories whenever possible. If you notice drastic or sudden weight gain, notify your doctor right away. This could be a sign of a serious pregnancy condition called preeclampsia.

Can you feel baby at 15 weeks?

Did you just feel a poke in your belly? It could be an early greeting from baby! First-time moms may be more likely to experience this a bit later in pregnancy, between 16 and 22 weeks, but others (including women who have been pregnant before) may feel some early movement as early as 13 weeks pregnant. Even if you haven’t felt baby yet, you’ll probably see them wriggling around at your next ultrasound!

“Your body is working hard to create life, and it should be cherished and nurtured during this time. One of the best ways to do this is to incorporate a few minutes of gentle yoga and mindfulness into your day to nourish your body and quiet your mind. Slow down and find your center with a child's pose, or open your aching hips with a butterfly pose." - Kelly Smith, a yoga and meditation instructor and the founder of Yoga for You.

Tips for 15 Weeks Pregnant

Time to get your priorities in order. Your health and wellness matter most. Here’s what you can do to feel your best.

Schedule a dental checkup

If your gums are bleeding, or if your teeth feel loose due to hormone fluctuations, it’s a good idea to see your dentist. Schedule a checkup during this trimester if you have any concerns.

Rest when you can

Sure, you’re bursting with energy now, but don’t overdo it. Kicking your feet up or taking a nap helps with things like headaches, which can be common at 15 weeks pregnant, back aches and overworked joints and muscles.

Pick a side

Speaking of rest…at 15 weeks, baby’s getting big enough to put pressure on your inferior vena cava blood vessel when you’re on your back. To prevent blood flow problems, you’ll want to start sleeping on your side (preferably the left for better blood circulation). A pregnancy pillow can help you find the comfiest position so you get your much-needed ZZZ’s.

Look into childbirth classes

You have a lot to do to get ready for baby’s birth day, and the second trimester will fly by as you try to get all your to-do’s done. Take the time now to explore options for childbirth classes and sign up for one that’s the best fit for your labor and delivery goals.

Pregnancy Checklist at 15 Weeks Pregnant

Reminders for the week:

Schedule your multiple marker screening (if you’re opting for one)
Schedule your amnio (if you're having one)
Pamper yourself. You've been working hard, and you deserve some "me time"

save article

Week 14
Pregnancy

Week 16
Pregnancy

Watch These Videos Next:

Article saved. Go to My Saved Articles

Article removed.

what is happening, the development of pregnancy and fetus

Week by week
13th - 16th week of pregnancy
Elena Gevorkova
Obstetrician-gynecologist, Moscow

13th week

BABY

The length of the fetus is 6-7 cm at the beginning of the week, reaching 10 cm by its end. The fetus weighs about 20-30 g at this time.

The countdown of the second trimester of pregnancy begins from the 13th week. From this period, intensive growth of the fetus occurs due to the lengthening of the arms and legs. The proportions of the body change, and the head is no longer as large in relation to the body as before. The formation of fingers and toes continues. The baby is already reaching out with his finger to his mouth, and often on ultrasound you can see that the thumb of the crumbs is in the mouth. This is how a very important reflex is manifested - sucking, which will be necessary for the child after birth.

Intensive growth of muscle tissue begins, especially in the limbs of the fetus. The activity of the fetus increases significantly, it makes smoother movements, but the woman still feels them, since the fetus is in the uterine cavity in a free position and practically does not come into contact with its walls.

A notable fact is the completion of the formation of all 20 milk teeth. They are located under the dense mucous membrane of the upper and lower jaws of the fetus.

The gastrointestinal tract develops intensively, the intestines fit into loops, completely filling the abdominal cavity. The inner surface of the intestine (mucosa) forms special villi that line the entire area of the intestine. After the baby is born, these villi will play a very important role in digestion, absorbing nutrients from the intestinal cavity. The intestine makes wave-like (peristaltic) movements, as a result of which the amniotic fluid swallowed by the fetus passes through it. They do not contain any nutrients, and their transport through the intestines is only a stimulus for the formation of a muscular intestinal wall, preparation for postpartum life.

Future MOTHER

The beginning of the 13th week is marked by the fact that pregnant women feel much better and finally there is an opportunity to feel the whole range of positive emotions associated with the period of bearing a baby. Toxicosis, malaise, drowsiness recede. The emotional background changes, the woman becomes more calm, less irritable. This is due to a more stable hormonal background and the fact that the critical periods of pregnancy are experienced safely.

At this time, most expectant mothers begin to change the shape of the abdomen. As a rule, the changes are invisible to others, but pregnant women clearly notice the appearance of a rounded tummy, discomfort when wearing previously familiar things. This requires an update of the wardrobe, the selection of more comfortable clothes.

14th week

BABY

The fetus has a length of up to 13 cm, its weight is 40-45 g.

The appearance of the fetus changes due to the distinct formation of the face. The cheeks are rounded, the eyebrows are outlined, the bridge of the nose becomes more pronounced. The baby makes distinct movements - holds on to the umbilical cord, feels his face, tummy. The head and body are covered with an embryonic fluff, which is tightly attached to the skin of the fetus. It performs a protective function, retaining a special lubricant located on the entire surface of the skin, which during childbirth will allow the child to slide smoothly along the mother's birth canal. Later, the thin, almost transparent germinal down will be replaced by thicker hairs.

During this period, important events occur regarding the respiratory organs of the fetus. The intensive development of the muscular system concerns not only the motor muscles of the arms and legs, but also the muscles of the respiratory system. The fetus makes rhythmic and intense movements that mimic breathing. Such "training" is very important, because immediately after birth, the child must take the first breath, which requires muscle effort and the ability of the muscles to obey the signals that come from the brain. The glottis is partially closed, which allows a small amount of amniotic fluid to enter the lungs during "inhalation", but during the subsequent intense "exhalation" it is pushed back. This washing promotes optimal maturation of the lung tissue.

Noticeable changes are noted in the structure of the genital organs of the fetus. In girls, the ovaries move from the abdominal cavity to the pelvic cavity. In boys, the prostate gland (prostate) is intensively formed. The structure of the external genitalia is clearly differentiated into male and female genitalia, however, with ultrasound at this time, it is not always possible to reliably determine the sex of the fetus.

Important events take place in the organs of the endocrine system. The intensive functioning of the pancreas begins, the production of insulin, the hormone responsible for the metabolism of glucose in the body, occurs. From the 14th week, the functioning of the pituitary gland begins - the "chief" of all other glands, which controls their interaction and is responsible for growth processes. The pituitary gland is tiny and is located in the most protected part of the body - in the thickness of the brain, surrounded by the bones of the skull.

Expectant MOM

The intensive growth of the uterus continues, and from this period it becomes possible to independently feel the bottom of the uterus - its uppermost part - through the anterior abdominal wall; its upper edge is 10-15 cm above the pubis. From this period, the use of special skin care products for pregnant women is recommended. The skin of the abdomen is not yet stretched, but certain changes are already taking place in it, and it is important to use cosmetics - creams, lotions, oils that moisturize the skin.

Stretch marks during pregnancy (stretch marks) appear due to ruptures of connective tissue fibers (microcracks). A change in the hormonal background in expectant mothers reduces the elasticity and firmness of the skin, and even a slight weight gain, as well as redistribution of the subcutaneous layer of fat and swelling, lead to the fact that the natural stretching of the skin occurs with its damage and the appearance of stretch marks.

The use of special cosmetics increases the elasticity of tissues and fills the cells with moisture; in this case, when the skin is stretched, microtrauma will occur less frequently.

15th week

BABY

By the end of the 15th week, the length of the fetus is 14-15 cm, and the weight is about 50-70 g. legs. Fetal movements are very active; he manages to repeatedly change his position in the uterus in a few minutes. The fingers and toes are fully formed. The fetus often bends the arms at the elbows and wrists, actively clenching the fingers into a fist. The skin of the fingertips acquires a unique striation - a unique skin pattern. The formation of nails begins.

At this stage of pregnancy, the cardiovascular system of the fetus is improving. The fetal heart rate is twice as fast as the mother's pulse (its norm is 140-160 beats per minute). The tiny heart works very intensively, pumping up to 20 liters of blood per day. The circulatory system of the fetus is being improved: arteries and veins are actively growing, connecting into complexes. At this time, every organ - heart, brain, lungs, intestines, etc. - acquires its own vascular systems (arteries and veins). A dense network of blood vessels shines through the thin skin of the fetus, and therefore the fetus does not have the usual pink color, but red.

The formation of the nervous system goes through very important stages. The brain increases in mass, its convolutions and furrows deepen. Bones, muscles and all internal organs are intertwined with nerve fibers. A stable connection is formed between the brain (central nervous system) and the periphery. Impulses pass not only from the brain to the organs, but also in the opposite direction - this is how a very important “reverse response” system is born.

By week 15, the source of blood cell production changes. If up to this point, erythrocytes (red blood cells) were produced by the liver and the yolk sac, then from the 15th week this function is taken over by the red bone marrow, which is located inside the bones.

From this period it becomes possible to determine the blood type and Rh factor of the fetus. Of course, the group and Rh are predetermined at the moment of conception, when the parents' chromosomes merge, but the realization of this information (the formation of special antigen proteins on the surface of red blood cells) occurs at this stage.

Future MOM

The belly of a pregnant woman continues to increase in size, at this time its growth is quite gradual. The uterus has a rounded shape, its bottom can be felt 15-20 cm above the pubis.

Skin pigmentation may appear both on the abdomen and on any other part of the body - arms, legs, face, chest, back of the expectant mother. As a rule, on the abdomen, this is manifested by a brown line stretching from the pubis to the navel, or separately located irregularly shaped spots. Skin pigmentation is associated with intensive production of melanin pigment and its deposition in the skin due to changes in hormonal levels, and occasionally, a lack of vitamins. The appearance of age spots should not be accompanied by discomfort, redness, swelling of the skin. If something like this occurs, it is necessary to inform the doctor about this, since such phenomena may be signs of an allergic reaction or a skin disease (dermatosis of pregnancy). The color of the line or spots can vary from light beige to dark brown. As a rule, these phenomena disappear on their own after childbirth. Do not use whitening creams without consulting your doctor: it may be unsafe for your baby.

16th week

BABY

Mimic muscles are formed in the fetus, and he starts their training – he frowns his eyebrows, opens and closes his mouth. The baby opens its eyes for the first time, which were previously tightly closed, learns to blink. Eyebrows and cilia are represented by fine fluffy hairs. The auricles are already in their usual place, while before this period they were located quite low - at the level of the neck. At this time, the inner ear is not yet able to hear, but the reaction of the fetus to loud sounds is clearly visible. This is due to a special type of sound perception - bone conduction, the fetus, as it were, "hears" with the dense parts of its body - the bones.

The fetus has already formed all the bones and joints. But the bones are still very soft, and the process of strengthening (ossification) will continue not only throughout pregnancy, but also after the birth of the child until puberty.

At 16 weeks, the external genitalia are already clearly visualized, and during an ultrasound examination, the sex of the baby can be determined almost unmistakably.

There is an intensive work of the kidneys of the fetus. From this period, the kidneys take over part of the excretory function, somewhat reducing the load on the placenta. During the day, the fetus swallows about 300-500 ml of amniotic fluid, they pass through the kidneys and are converted into urine. The fetus excretes urine every hour in small portions into the amniotic fluid through the formed urethra.

Expectant MOM

The general well-being of pregnant women usually improves significantly. Appetite normalizes, gradual weight gain begins; by this time it should not exceed 2.5-3 kg.

The growth of the abdomen at this stage of pregnancy is associated both with the development of the fetus and with a more intense accumulation of amniotic fluid. The tummy protrudes quite noticeably, but does not constrain the movements of the pregnant woman and does not give her a feeling of discomfort. And although the size of the abdomen is small, nevertheless, it is time to change some of your habits in connection with its growth. This applies to the choice of body position during sleep. It is not recommended to sleep on the stomach and on the back. In the first case, it can be uncomfortable for the baby and disrupt the blood flow in the uterus. In the second case, the uterus presses on large veins, which worsens the outflow of blood, can provoke cramps, swelling of the legs and aggravate varicose veins. It is optimal to sleep on your side: this position is most convenient for both mom and baby.

15th week of pregnancy, baby weight, photo, pregnancy calendar | Mamovedia

Week 15 falls on the fourth month of pregnancy, time inevitably passes quickly, so enjoy every day and moment of unique emotions, feelings and experiences. Very soon you will begin to feel your baby's kicks! Oh, incredible sensations and an explosion of emotions await you, a new perception of life raging under your heart... But that will be a little later, and now we will find out what awaits you and your baby at the 15th week.

What's going on?

At the 13th week of his life, which is exactly the age the baby will be this week, the baby weighs 50 to 60 g, its height from head to tailbone is 9.3 - 10.4 cm . By its size, the baby is already the same as a mango :)

The baby's hair continues to develop. The first fluff of hairs appears on the head, eyebrows are barely visible, eyelashes grow. Since the hair color has already been laid down, now the baby's follicles begin to produce a special pigment that will be responsible for the dark shade of the hair.

The facial features are becoming more and more like those with which the baby will be born.

The auricles continue to develop and are already taking on the appearance of a regular ear . The baby's skin remains very thin, its color is still closer to red. Blood vessels are clearly visible through the skin.

The baby loves to move very much, he becomes quite flexible. The skeleton is actively developing, bones are formed . The accumulation of calcium contributes to the strengthening of bones. The baby's legs have already stretched out and become longer than the arms. The child already knows how to compress the fist, as well as bend his arms at the elbows and wrists.

The gallbladder begins to secrete bile, enters the intestines

The first discharge from the intestines that appears after birth is called meconium. It is bile that affects their color - black-green, which sometimes scares inexperienced mothers.

The baby's bladder is already performing its function, and therefore its emptying, in the form of urine, replenishes the amniotic fluid . However, the main component of amniotic fluid is produced by cells in the amniotic sac. Updates of the fluid in which your baby is located occurs 8-10 times a day. Thus, constant sterility is maintained at the required ratio of minerals, organic substances and water.

It is difficult to overestimate the importance of the amniotic sac and amniotic fluid

This is protection, comfort and development. This is such a small universe for your child, his home and space. The kid happily explores his first habitat, bathes and basks in weightlessness. Due to the fact that amniotic fluid conducts sound well, the baby can already hear your voice, the beating of your heart and the "rumbling" of the stomach . All sounds coming to the baby from the external environment become muffled and have a pleasant sound, the lighting also does not interfere with the baby, since it is not bright. All this contributes to the full development of a healthy baby, and also makes his stay in the mother's tummy one of the most pleasant periods of life, although the memories of this period of life are hidden somewhere deep in our subconscious.

What does it feel like?

The feeling of future motherhood gets stronger with each passing week. Share your emotions with dad. If he will experience moments of joy, anxiety, happiness together with you, will be closer to his child, then the feeling of future fatherhood will also captivate his soul. Shared emotions bring together and strengthen relationships. And what emotions can be stronger than those that rage all 9 months of hope.

At the 15th week of pregnancy, the formation of the placenta is almost complete. Between the baby and the placenta there is a strong inextricable link. The placenta is now the provisional organ of the baby . In addition to feeding the baby, delivering oxygen and removing processed products, she begins to supply him with the necessary hormones and proteins. The function of synthesizing steroid hormones (progesterone and estrogen) is jointly performed by the placenta and glands of the baby, thus forming a single hormonal system well-coordinated in its work.

The uterus is constantly growing, its upper edge is already about 7.5 cm below the navel.

A brown line may have appeared in the middle of your abdomen that extends down from the navel. Under the action of hormones, a pigment substance is deposited - melanin, which painted your tummy. The line will disappear after childbirth on its own, just as it appeared.

The volume of blood increased by almost 20%, which affected the size of your heart - it also increased . It is possible to reduce the level of hemoglobin due to the "dilution" of the blood. You may experience tinnitus and shortness of breath. Due to the increase in the size of the uterus, the ventilation of the lungs increased by 50%.

Make good use of your free time - good health helps to plan important decisions right now . From the 27th week, as a rule, the tummy is already rounded enough that it will interfere with you to feel fast, agile and energetic.

Nutrition of the expectant mother

The recommendations of the previous weeks remain relevant in the nutrition of the expectant mother. At the 15th week, attention should be paid to foods rich in iron, calcium and magnesium . Your body will signal about their insufficiency (see Risk Factors). However, it is better not to wait for the signal, but to act ahead.

Risk factors for mother and child

During the 15th week of pregnancy, the baby enjoys swimming in the amniotic fluid, which already contains the products of his life. Therefore, conducting a study of amniotic fluid can show the condition of the child. This analysis is recommended for women who are at risk of having a child with malformations.

Amnioncentesis (a procedure in which the required amount of amniotic fluid is taken through the wall of the uterus for analysis with a needle) determines the level of AFP protein - alpha-fetoprotein. Exceeding its level indicates a defect of the central nervous system, less than the level indicates the suspicion of the development of Down syndrome . In addition, by analyzing the amniotic fluid, you can find out gender, blood type, the level of proteins, hormones, bilirubin. All these indicators will help the doctor to more accurately diagnose, assess the condition and development of the child with various types of pathology.

Insufficient amounts of elements such as calcium, magnesium and potassium in the body of a woman or due to a decrease in blood sugar levels may cause leg cramps

The hormone estrogen affects the increase in mucus and can provoke swelling of the nasal tissues . In this regard, a pregnant woman may feel nasal congestion, itching in the nose, and the like. This position is not harmful to the baby, although it can pester the mother.

Due to the increase in blood volume, which occurs to a greater extent due to the accumulation of plasma, anemia of pregnancy may develop. A low level of hemoglobin can affect your well-being - weakness, dizziness, and can also lead to oxygen starvation of the baby and impaired development. Make sure you get your iron in the form of food or medication. If you feel worse, consult a doctor and take a blood test to check your hemoglobin level.

Important!

Scheduled analyzes and examinations are not provided for on the 15th week. Tests may be ordered by the attending physician. See your doctor according to the appointment schedule he gives you. Do not miss an appointment without a good reason and follow all his instructions and recommendations.

Protect your nervous system from unnecessary worries and stress. Do not react to trifles, smile and enjoy every new day!