Pregnancy week 15
Having gained anywhere from 5 to 10, the uterus and belly have expanded to a noticeable point by week 15 of pregnancy. At this time, a physician will probably start measuring the mother’s fundal height, the distance between the top of the uterus to the pubic bone. This measurement correlates with the pregnancy weeks and can help reaffirm the due date. Excessive salivation, stuffy nose, and colds are usually experienced from week 15 and on, and are all common symptoms of pregnancy. Even urinary tract infections are more common during pregnancy because of the relaxed state of the uterus walls. A kidney infection is a very real danger of urinary tract infection if it is not looked after. Symptoms of a UTI include a burning sensation when urinating, lower abdominal pain, the constant compulsion to urinate, and blood in the urine or cloudy urine. Also, pregnancy symptoms of a UTI can include nausea or fever. A kidney infection becomes apparent when symptoms such as high fever, lower back pain, nausea, and vomiting arise. Water and cranberry juice can help reduce the chance of infection. If a woman tests negative for a UTI at the first parental visit, chances are that it will not be contracted throughout the pregnancy.
At about 4 1/2 inches long, and at around 1 1/2 ounces, the baby during week 15 is still growing as fast as ever. The baby’s skin is still translucent at this stage and blood vessels are easily spotted. During this week, a fine hair called lanugo that encompasses the baby’s entire body begins to form. Sucking it’s thumb and breathing in amniotic fluid prepares the fetus’s air sacs for that first breath of air after birth. If a UTI is so bad that it is in danger of becoming a kidney infection, antibiotics will probably be prescribed. Although medications are not usually recommended for pregnancy women, sometimes they become necessary. Category A medications are considered safe for use during pregnancy, although progressing through the alphabet to Category D medications becomes more and more dangerous for the fetus.
Current guidance (today's medical sources): By week fifteen the baby's bones continue to harden and it can sense light through closed eyelids, although it cannot see. The baby moves actively, but most first-time parents do not feel it yet. A small bump may become visible. Mild symptoms such as nasal congestion can occur with pregnancy hormones.
Contact your healthcare provider promptly about heavy vaginal bleeding, severe or persistent abdominal pain, a high fever, severe or sudden headache, vision changes, or fainting. Seek urgent care if you are worried — these can be signs that need medical attention.
Sources: NHS — 15 weeks pregnant; Mayo Clinic — Fetal development: The 2nd trimester; MedlinePlus (NIH/NLM) — Prenatal Care. Informational only. See our sources & medical-review policy.
Frequently asked questions
How many months is 15 weeks pregnant?
Week 15 falls in the second trimester. Pregnancy is usually counted in weeks (about 40 in total) rather than months, because weeks are more precise.
What is happening to the baby at 15 weeks?
The baby can sense light; bones continue to harden; it moves, though movement is usually not yet felt.
What symptoms are common at week 15?
A visible bump may appear; some experience nasal congestion or mild swelling. Symptoms vary a lot from person to person; discuss anything that worries you with your healthcare provider.
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See the week-by-week guide →Informational only — not medical advice. Pregnancy Week to Week is a general educational reference. It is not a substitute for professional medical care, diagnosis, or treatment. Every pregnancy is different: always consult your doctor, midwife, or other qualified healthcare provider about your own pregnancy, and never disregard or delay professional advice because of something you read here. In an emergency, contact your maternity unit or local emergency number immediately.