Second trimester
15 weeks pregnant
The fetus is around the size of an apple and starting to hear. Bones are hardening noticeably and movements are becoming stronger, though still usually too faint to feel.
Size of
apple
Length
10 cm
Weight
70 g
Your baby at 15 weeks
The bones of the inner ear and the parts of the brain that process sound are developing, so the fetus is beginning to register noise — your heartbeat, digestion, and voice most of all.
The skin is still thin and translucent, with blood vessels visible beneath it. Legs are now longer than arms, correcting the earlier proportions.
The fetus is practising breathing movements, drawing amniotic fluid in and out, which helps the lungs develop.
How you may be feeling
You may feel the first flutters, though for a first pregnancy it is more commonly a few weeks away. Early movement is often described as bubbles, flutters, or a sensation easy to mistake for digestion.
The bump is usually clearly visible now, and maternity clothing often becomes genuinely necessary rather than just more comfortable.
Common symptoms around week 15
- Possible first flutters of movement, particularly in later pregnancies
- Growing bump requiring different clothing
- Nasal congestion and occasional nosebleeds
- Heartburn becoming more frequent
- Backache as posture shifts
Appointments and tests around now
A second-trimester blood screening test is offered in some systems between roughly weeks 15 and 20, particularly if first-trimester screening was not done.
What is normal, and what varies
If you are not feeling movement yet, that is entirely expected in a first pregnancy. Most people feel the first movements somewhere between weeks 16 and 22, and later is not a problem at this stage.
Worth doing this week
Talk to the bump if you like
Hearing is developing, and familiar voices do appear to be recognised after birth. It also helps partners feel involved.
Mind your posture
The centre of gravity shifts as the bump grows. Backache responds better to posture and gentle strengthening than to rest alone.
Sleep with a pillow between your knees
It takes strain off the lower back and hips and makes side-sleeping considerably more comfortable.
Looking ahead
Next week many people feel definite movement for the first time.
Nearby weeks
Not sure which week you are in? The week tracker works it out from the first day of your last period, and the due date calculator gives you an estimated due date.