At 15 weeks of pregnancy, you are well into your second trimester. This period often brings increased energy and fewer early discomforts. This stage marks significant growth and development for your baby, while your body continues to adapt to the changes of pregnancy.
Your Baby’s Development
At 15 weeks, your baby is undergoing rapid development, measuring approximately 4 inches (10.1 cm) from head to bottom and weighing about 2.5 ounces (70 grams). Their body is becoming more proportionate, with legs growing longer than arms.
The skeletal system is progressing with bones hardening. Tiny muscles are developing, allowing for more coordinated movements, though you are unlikely to feel these subtle flutters yet. The baby is quite active, capable of making fists, sucking their thumb, and even hiccupping.
Sensory development is advancing. Your baby’s eyes are sensitive to light, even though their eyelids remain fused shut. Taste buds are forming, and nerves are connecting them to the brain. The ears are developing sufficiently for the baby to begin hearing sounds, such as your heartbeat and your voice. A fine, soft layer of hair, called lanugo, is growing on the baby’s body.
Changes in Your Body
As your baby grows, your body undergoes noticeable transformations. Your uterus is expanding rapidly and will soon extend beyond your pelvis, leading to a more visible baby bump, especially if this is not your first pregnancy. This growth may shift your center of gravity, potentially affecting your balance. The average weight gain around 15 weeks is approximately 5 pounds, though this can vary.
Many individuals experience increased energy levels as the common first-trimester symptoms like morning sickness often subside. However, some symptoms may persist or emerge, such as mild abdominal aches, often referred to as “round ligament pain,” caused by the stretching ligaments supporting your growing uterus. Skin changes can include a “pregnancy glow” due to increased blood flow, but also darkened patches on the face (chloasma) or a dark line on the abdomen (linea nigra). Hair may appear thicker and shinier due to hormonal influences that prolong its growth phase.
Other common symptoms at 15 weeks can include swollen and bleeding gums, which are often sensitive due to hormonal changes affecting the gums’ reaction to bacteria. Nosebleeds and nasal congestion are also possible due to increased blood flow and hormones. You might also experience headaches, often linked to hormonal shifts, and an increased appetite as your body requires more energy and nutrients. Leg cramps, bloating, and increased vaginal discharge are also frequently reported.
Important Considerations
This stage is a good time to consider upcoming prenatal appointments and discussions with your healthcare provider. You may have an opportunity for genetic screening tests if you haven’t already. Second-trimester blood screenings, such as the Quad Screen (also known as Multiple Marker Screen), are typically offered between 15 and 22 weeks to assess the risk of certain chromosomal abnormalities like Down syndrome and neural tube defects. An amniocentesis, a diagnostic test, can also be performed between 16 and 20 weeks if further information is needed.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle continues to be important. While there is no need to “eat for two,” a balanced diet with a variety of foods, including plenty of fruits and vegetables, is recommended. You might need about 300 extra calories per day, depending on your pre-pregnancy weight. Regular exercise is generally encouraged, with a recommendation of at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, such as brisk walking or swimming. Activities like prenatal yoga can also help strengthen muscles and prepare your body.
Early planning for the future can also begin. While it might seem early, some birthing classes cover topics like nutrition and fetal development in the second trimester, though comprehensive labor and delivery classes are often taken closer to the third trimester. Considering options for your baby’s nursery or starting to think about birthing preferences can contribute to feeling more prepared and in control as your pregnancy progresses.