15th week of pregnancy – Growth, gender and your baby bump

15th Week of Pregnancy (Week 15)

In the 15th week of pregnancy (in the fourth month), you are now well into your second trimester and can continue to enjoy what is perhaps the most pleasant phase of pregnancy.

Your baby is making impressive progress in week 15, and your body is also continuing to change to make room for your growing little miracle. By now, it’s becoming much more obvious that you’re pregnant.

Have you noticed that you’ve become a little more forgetful? Don’t worry, this is completely normal.

Now is a great time to enjoy your pregnancy to the fullest and start preparing for the months ahead.

Week 15 at a glance

Your baby:

Your baby is about 10–11 cm long in week 15 and weighs around 50 grams – similar to an apple.
The skin is still thin and translucent, with blood vessels visible underneath.
The eyes and ears are moving closer to their final positions, and the face is becoming more expressive.
The hair, eyebrows, and fine body hair continue to develop, while the larynx and vocal cords are growing.

Your body:

Your bump is becoming more visible as the uterus continues to grow and your muscles stretch.
You may notice a slight weight gain in week 15 – this is completely normal.
Your skin may appear rosier or become more sensitive due to hormonal changes.
Some women already feel a gentle fluttering in their tummy in week 15, caused by the baby’s movements.

Good to know for baby and mum:

The placenta is working at full speed to provide your baby with everything it needs.
Your baby is developing its first taste buds in week 15 and can swallow amniotic fluid.
Make sure to eat a balanced diet with enough iron to promote your health and your child’s.
Your circulatory system is working harder, so it’s important to drink enough water to keep your circulation stable.

Baby’s development in week 15:

Your baby now measures about 10–11 cm and is about the size of an apple. On the outside, it looks more and more like a tiny human. Your baby regularly moves its arms and legs, and with a bit of luck, the gender can already be seen on the ultrasound in week 15.

You won’t be able to see it on the ultrasound, but your baby’s body is covered in fine, soft hair during this week, called lanugo hair. This helps the vernix (a white, creamy substance) stick to your baby’s body. This is important to protect the skin from softening and from the amniotic fluid. The fine hair and vernix also serve another important function: they dampen sound, pressure, and vibrations. In the last weeks of pregnancy, the hair on the body will slowly disappear.

Your body in the 15th week of pregnancy:

You’ve probably heard of the so-called pregnancy glow. Many mums-to-be in this phase of pregnancy receive compliments about how great they look. This can be due to the first signs of water retention in your face, which smooths out fine lines and gives you a fresher appearance. As always, don’t worry if things are different for you – every pregnancy is unique.

You might also have noticed that you’re forgetting things more often than before you were pregnant. This is due to hormones, which temporarily reduce your brain performance. This is why it’s sometimes called pregnancy brain. Experts suspect that during pregnancy, the brain is already fully focusing on the mother-child bond.

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Tips for the 15th Week of Pregnancy

Your breasts continue to prepare for breastfeeding during this week of pregnancy. This is also a hormonal process and can cause uncomfortable tightness. Even a gentle touch can be very unpleasant. If possible, try not to sleep on your stomach anymore. A gentle massage with oil or warm compresses can provide relief. Make sure your bra is not too tight and does not constrict your breasts.

Mindful Nutrition During Pregnancy:

You need especially high levels of nutrients in week 15. Incorporate iron-rich foods such as spinach, oats, or pulses to prevent iron deficiency. Vitamin C, for example from fresh oranges or kiwis, also helps improve iron absorption. Continue to avoid unpasteurised dairy products and ensure a good balance of proteins, carbohydrates, and healthy fats.

Exercise and Relaxation:

Gentle activities such as swimming or pregnancy yoga strengthen your muscles and help prevent common pregnancy complaints like back pain.

Also make sure to schedule regular time for relaxation, for example with a warm bath or a gentle massage, to reduce stress and deepen your connection with your baby.

Pampering Your Baby Bump:

The skin on your belly is under increased strain from growth in week 15. Pamper it with a moisturising lotion or oil to help prevent feelings of tightness. Massages stimulate blood circulation and can help minimise stretch marks.

Adjusting Your Clothing:

If your favourite trousers are starting to feel tight, it’s time for maternity wear. Invest in comfortable basics such as trousers with an elastic waistband and loose tops that allow room for your growing bump.

Don’t Forget Your Check-ups:

Your doctor or midwife will support you through this phase. At your next appointment, discuss topics such as weight gain, your baby bump, or any possible complaints. Regular ultrasound scans are now particularly exciting, as you can closely follow your baby’s development.

Frequently Asked Questions About Week 15 of Pregnancy

Can my baby hear anything yet?

Yes, your unborn baby can perceive its first sounds in the 15th week. Through the amniotic sac, muffled stimuli such as your voice or your heartbeat reach them. These sounds provide your baby with a basis for developing its later day-night rhythm. The nervous system continues to develop to respond to such stimuli.

When can the sex of my baby be detected?

In week 15, an experienced doctor can often detect the baby’s sex during an ultrasound, depending on your baby’s position. Your baby is now growing to about 10–11 cm in length, and arms and legs are clearly visible. If there is any uncertainty, a later test can provide clarity.

Why am I experiencing increased symptoms such as fatigue?

The increased blood volume and the pregnancy hormone progesterone are reasons for your fatigue in week 15. Your body is working hard to nourish your baby. Make sure you get enough rest and sleep to recharge your energy.

What is happening with my baby’s nervous system?

Your baby’s brain continues to develop, and new reflexes are forming. Your baby is already practising grasping movements with its hands and feet. The umbilical cord provides everything needed for your baby’s growth and life.

Why is my tummy getting bigger?

Your tummy is growing in week 15 because your uterus needs to make more space for the baby. Organs such as your baby’s heart, lungs, and liver are increasing in size. This is a beautiful glimpse into the world of your happiness, which continues to grow.