Pregnancy week 15 - baby's development and your body
The information in this article is intended for general information only and does not replace medical advice. Always contact your midwife or maternity care provider if you are concerned about your or your baby’s health.
Are you in week 15 of your pregnancy? Learn all about how the fetus develops this week, changes in your body, and pregnancy symptoms.
The fetus is now growing quickly, about 2 cm per week, and it is common to notice your belly growing, although this can vary for everyone.
Size:
The fetus is about 10 cm in size or 3.94 inches, from head to rump.
Weight:
Approximately 70 grams or 2.47 ounces.
Fetal development:
The fetus now has distinct hands, feet, and all body parts. The skin is thin and transparent, covered with fine, light hairs called lanugo, which protect the skin and help retain warmth.
This week, the fetus may begin to put its thumb in its mouth, though the nervous system isn’t yet developed enough for conscious movement control. The fetus is also storing calcium, so remember to eat a varied diet to support this growth.
Your body:
The risk of miscarriage has now significantly decreased, and early pregnancy symptoms often start to lessen.
If you've experienced nausea, it may begin to ease, though for some, it can persist a bit longer. You may also start to feel more energetic if fatigue was common in the earlier weeks.
1. 1177 Vårrdguiden (Sweden's national online healthcare portal). “Pregnancy week by week”, https://www.1177.se/barn--gravid/graviditet/om-graviditeten/graviditeten-vecka-for-vecka/
2. Cleveland Clinic. Pregnancy: Second Trimester, https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/16092-pregnancy-second-trimester
3. Mayo Clinic. Prenatal care: Healthy pregnancy week by week, https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/prenatal-care/art-20045302