WEEK 15
How does the baby grow?
The baby is now about 10cm long from head to butt and weighs about 70 grams (about the size of an apple). The fetus is constantly moving amniotic fluid through the nose and upper respiratory tract, helping the nascent air sacs begin to grow. The legs are now longer than the arms, and the baby is able to move all the joints and limbs. Although the eyelids are still closed, the baby can sense the light. If moms shone a flashlight on the belly, the baby will move to avoid the rays. The baby’s taste buds form even though there nothing much the baby can try now. Finally, if having an ultrasound this week, moms can know the baby is a boy or a girl! (Don’t be too disappointed if the baby’s gender is still a mystery as the gender determination depends on the level of clarity of the ultrasound image and the location of the baby).
Changes occurring in the mother’s body during the 15th week of pregnancy
At this time, moms may gain more than 2 kilograms (no matter whether it is more or less) and are used to changes in pregnancy but moms may still be surprised at the next unexpected symptoms. If moms’ nose gets bigger, it is probably due to hormonal changes and increases in blood flow to the mucous membranes. This situation is very common. Some pregnant women experience nosebleeds, which is a result of an increase in blood volume and blood vessel dilatation in the nose.
