Welcome to your week-by-week pregnancy journey! At 15 weeks along, there’s so much to look forward to as you and your little one continue to grow together. Let’s dive into what’s happening this week with your body, your baby, and those all-important symptoms.
Your Body at 15 Weeks Pregnant
Your Belly Is Starting to Show
This week, you might notice your baby bump finally beginning to make an appearance! If you haven’t already, it could be the perfect time to embrace comfortable maternity wear.
With morning sickness likely behind you, your appetite may be returning, and you could see a bit of weight gain. According to the American Pregnancy Association, most women have gained around five pounds by this stage, but it’s completely normal to fluctuate from this average.
Energized and Ready to Nest
As you transition into your second trimester, the fatigue that characterized early pregnancy should be lifting. You might find yourself bursting with energy, making it a great time to tackle your nesting projects and plan for baby’s arrival.
Increased Libido
Let’s talk about intimacy! This surge of energy comes hand-in-hand with heightened hormones, which may boost your libido. You may find yourself feeling more in the mood than usual—enjoy this phase while you can, as sleepless nights will soon have a whole new meaning.
Your Baby at 15 Weeks Pregnant
At this stage, your baby is roughly the size of a donut, weighing about 2 ounces and measuring around 4 inches long. They’re quite active, practicing their gymnastics routine with hiccups and somersaults, even if you can’t feel all the action just yet.
This week, your baby’s bones are starting to harden, and facial features are becoming more defined. Their eyes are moving towards the center of their face, and ears are developing. Excitingly, they’re even getting ready for those midnight feedings by drinking amniotic fluid and might even be sucking their tiny thumb!
Your Symptoms and Health at 15 Weeks Pregnant
Time for a Dental Checkup
In the wise words of a well-known pop star, don’t forget to floss! Hormonal changes and increased blood flow can lead to swollen gums that may bleed during brushing—a condition known as pregnancy gingivitis. It’s advisable to visit your dentist during this trimester for a checkup to ensure your oral health remains a priority.
Dealing with Headaches
Some women experience headaches during pregnancy due to increased blood volume, dehydration, or posture. If these headaches persist, make sure to consult your healthcare provider. Severe headaches, particularly in the third trimester, could be linked to high blood pressure or preeclampsia, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you’re concerned.
Understanding Body Aches
As your belly grows, your body adjusts to the added weight, which can lead to discomfort. Hormones like relaxin help your body accommodate these changes, but they can also cause some back and joint pain. Gentle stretches and a supportive belly band can help ease some of this discomfort.
Heartburn, Anyone?
Just as your appetite returns, you might find that heartburn becomes a common companion. This can be attributed to hormonal changes that slow digestion. To alleviate this, try to avoid spicy foods, opt for smaller meals throughout the day, and avoid lying down right after eating. Elevating your head while sleeping can also help.
If you’re carrying twins, you may experience more intense heartburn due to the increased hormonal levels. Experts recommend upping your calorie intake by about 600 calories a day to accommodate your growing babies.
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Summary
At 15 weeks pregnant, you’re entering an exciting phase of pregnancy. Your baby is about the size of a donut, and you may be feeling more energetic and experiencing changes in your body. Don’t forget to schedule that dental checkup and stay aware of your symptoms, as your little one continues to grow and thrive.