• Energy Boost: Hormones stabilise in Week 15, leading to a surge in energy. This boost helps you feel more refreshed and productive after dealing with earlier fatigue.
• Nasal Congestion: Increased blood flow and hormonal changes may cause nasal congestion or nosebleeds. Staying hydrated and using a humidifier can help alleviate discomfort.
• Appetite Increase: As the baby grows, caloric needs rise, leading to an increase in appetite. Opt for healthy, balanced snacks to meet your nutritional needs.
• Skin Changes: Improved circulation may give your skin a glow, but hormonal shifts can also lead to breakouts or darkened skin patches (melasma). Use pregnancy-friendly skincare for best results.
• Round Ligament Pain: As the uterus expands, round ligament pain may cause sharp or aching sensations in the lower abdomen. Gentle stretches and warm compresses can help ease the discomfort.
• Varicose Veins: Increased blood volume and pressure on veins can cause varicose veins, especially in the legs. Elevate legs, avoid standing for long periods, and wear supportive stockings for relief.

Your Baby's Growth in the Womb

• Organ Development: Your baby’s skeletal system is developing rapidly, with cartilage turning into bone. Their heart pumps about 23 litres of blood daily to support growth, and their ears are fully formed, allowing them to hear sounds like your voice.
• Physical Features: A fine layer of lanugo hair is growing, helping to regulate body temperature. Facial features are becoming more defined, and tiny facial expressions like frowning are possible. Eyebrows, eyelashes, and scalp hair are forming, and the eyes are becoming light-sensitive.
• Weight of the Foetus: By Week 15, your baby is the size of an apple, measuring 10 cm and weighing 70–80 grams. They are growing bigger and stronger each day.
• Movement of the Baby: Your baby is practising movements like kicking and turning to strengthen muscles. While you may not feel them yet, these movements are vital for development, and they may also experience hiccups as they practice breathing.
   

Physiological Changes During Week 15 of Pregnancy

• Breasts: Your breasts continue to grow, feeling less tender than earlier. Small bumps called Montgomery’s tubercles may appear on your areolas, preparing your body for breastfeeding.
• Skin, Hair, and Nails: Hormonal changes affect your hair, skin, and nails. Hair may become thicker and shinier, while some women experience hair growth in unexpected areas. Skin may have a pregnancy glow, or melasma may form. Nails may grow faster but become more brittle.
• Respiratory and Cardiovascular Changes: Your cardiovascular and respiratory systems are working harder, increasing blood volume. This can lead to breathlessness, a faster heartbeat, or visible veins, especially in your legs.
• Uterus and Cervical Position: By Week 15, your uterus has grown above the pelvic bone. You may feel a noticeable bump as your belly expands to accommodate your baby.
• Vaginal Discharge: Increased vaginal discharge is normal, typically thin, milky, and odourless. If you notice unusual colour, strong odour, or discomfort, consult your healthcare provider.

• Amniocentesis: A procedure where a small sample of amniotic fluid is taken to screen for genetic conditions, chromosomal abnormalities, and neural tube defects. It is recommended for higher-risk pregnancies, usually between 15-20 weeks.
• Early Anomaly Scan: An ultrasound is performed between 14-18 weeks to assess the baby's organs, bones, and development. It is a safe and painless scan designed to detect potential issues early.
• Routine Tests: Includes measuring blood pressure, height, and weight, screening for Down syndrome, and cervical screening for HPV and cervical cancer signs.
• Blood Tests: Tests for anaemia, rubella immunity, hepatitis B and C, syphilis, chlamydia, and HIV to monitor maternal and fetal health.
• Urine Tests: Used to detect urinary tract infections, which are common during pregnancy.