Baby development at 15 weeks
Taste Development:
As your baby’s taste buds form, nerves establish connections to the brain. By approximately 20 weeks, the taste buds are fully developed. Throughout pregnancy, the molecules from your diet enter your bloodstream and reach the amniotic fluid. However, rest assured that your baby doesn’t actually experience the taste of your meals, so there’s no need to worry about their culinary preferences.
Fetal Movement:
At this stage, your baby’s legs are surpassing the length of their arms, and they possess the ability to move all joints and limbs. Even though you may not feel it yet, your active baby is in constant motion.
Facial Features:
Your baby is taking on a more distinct human appearance, complete with eyelids, eyebrows, eyelashes, nails, hair, and well-defined fingers and toes. If you could glimpse inside your womb, you might observe your baby engaging in activities such as sucking a thumb, yawning, stretching, and making facial expressions.
Your baby is about the size of an apple
Pregnancy symptoms during week 15
Congestion in the Nasal Passages
If you find yourself dealing with a blocked nose, it’s likely attributed to a combination of hormonal shifts and heightened blood circulation affecting your mucous membranes. This common occurrence has a specific term: pregnancy rhinitis. To alleviate this discomfort, consider using a humidifier or vaporizer in your sleeping space. Elevating your head with extra pillows during sleep and staying well-hydrated can also provide relief. While saline nasal spray is an option, it’s crucial to consult your healthcare provider before using decongestants or other medications during pregnancy.
Epistaxis (Nose Bleeds)
Keep tissues at the ready, as approximately 20 percent of pregnant women experience nosebleeds due to increased blood volume and expanded blood vessels in the nasal area. While these nosebleeds are typically harmless, inform your healthcare provider if they become frequent. If the bleeding is severe or persists despite applying pressure for 30 minutes, seek immediate medical attention by calling 911 or heading to the emergency room.
Pregnancy-Related Heartburn
Heartburn, characterized by a burning sensation in the chest after eating or at night, may manifest for the first time during pregnancy due to physiological and hormonal changes, particularly an increase in progesterone. Although usually benign, heartburn can be uncomfortably persistent. Explore strategies to manage pregnancy-related heartburn for relief.
Gingival Swelling
Experiencing bleeding gums during brushing or flossing is a common occurrence in pregnancy. Approximately half of pregnant women develop swollen, red, and tender gums, often attributed to pregnancy gingivitis—a mild form of gum disease influenced by hormonal fluctuations making gums more susceptible to plaque bacteria. Take proactive steps to care for your dental health during pregnancy by brushing gently twice a day, daily flossing, and scheduling regular dentist checkups and cleanings. It’s safe to visit the dentist while pregnant; just inform the staff of your pregnancy.
Weight Gain in Pregnancy
Assuming you’ve overcome first-trimester nausea and food aversions, you can now relish in the joy of enjoying meals again. If you started pregnancy at a healthy weight, the goal is to gain approximately one pound per week for the remainder of your pregnancy. In the second trimester, you’ll need around 340 extra calories daily. Opt for nutritious and satisfying pregnancy snacks to meet this requirement and support your well-being.
Pregnancy checklist at 15 weeks pregnant
Maintain a Pregnancy Journal
Embrace the benefits of journaling during your pregnancy journey! Whether you choose a physical journal or prefer to jot down notes on your phone, capturing these moments will create a precious narrative to share with your child in the future.
Initiate a Pregnancy Exercise Routine
If you’re up for it, now is an opportune moment to establish a regular pregnancy workout. Participating in a class can provide the motivation needed to stay committed, and many expectant mothers find prenatal exercise classes to be an excellent means of building connections and gaining support from fellow moms-to-be. Consider options such as water exercise, prenatal yoga or Pilates, joining a walking group, or engaging in a prenatal dance class.
Explore Our Second Trimester Checklist
If you’re someone who appreciates making lists and checking items off, our comprehensive second-trimester to-do list has you covered. It encompasses everything from financial planning to enrolling in childbirth classes and contemplating childcare options.
Incorporate Affirmations into Your Routine
Empower yourself with positive affirmations – statements you repeat to counteract negative thoughts. For instance, if you harbor concerns about childbirth, affirm to yourself, “I trust my body to navigate this journey,” or “I am resilient, strong, and brave,” or a simple “I’ve got this.” Research indicates that affirmations can have lasting positive effects on your mental and emotional well-being, providing motivation, inspiration, and comfort.
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