15 Weeks Pregnant

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Here's what's happening during Week 15 of your pregnancy:

Your Growing Baby

Your baby is about 4 to 4 1/2 inches and about 1 3/4 of an ounce. If you could see your baby's face, you might be able to see her wince and grimace, because her facial muscles are developing and flexing. All of her tiny organs, nerves, and muscles are starting to function. The intestines have moved farther into the baby's body; her liver begins to secrete bile, which will later aid in the digestion of fats; and her pancreas begins to produce insulin, a hormone which turns sugar into energy.

Your Growing Belly

Your womb is now starting to grow up and out of your pelvis, so you may have a neat and noticeable bump below your belly button. Now that you're becoming visibly pregnant, you may also find yourself a topic of discussion.

Your milk glands may already be kicking into production. You may sometimes notice what looks like water sitting on the tips of your nipples, or nipple-level wet spots on your sheets when you wake up in the morning. If you need to, put breast pads (or trimmed pantiliners) inside your bra.

Your body is practicing making colostrum, a protein-rich fluid that is great for newborns. You may begin to feel Braxton-Hicks contractions, which get your uterus in shape to give birth. These "practice" contractions feel like a tightening in your uterus or abdominal area. You may get them more frequently after exercise. If you have regular contractions (more than four an hour), uncomfortable pelvic pressure, or discharge lots of fluid or mucus, contact your care provider.

Tips & To-Do's

Pregnant Belly Basics

Most bellies don't reveal a pregnancy until the second trimester. Until then, the uterus is usually hidden behind the pubic bone. "When women look like they are showing earlier, it is often due to the bloating that accompanies early pregnancy," Thoppil says. You may also show earlier if you have been pregnant before or your ab muscles are lax. Interesting facts to know as your baby bump grows >>

Things to think about this week

When you're pregnant, the payoffs for developing strong abdominal and pelvic-floor muscles are plentiful. Strengthen your abs and pelvic floor now for an easier delivery and a lower risk of incontinence later >>

 

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