During the 15th week of pregnancy, several significant developments occur for both the mother and the baby:

For the Mother:

1. Reduced Symptoms: Many women experience a further reduction in early pregnancy symptoms during the 15th week. Nausea, fatigue, and breast tenderness may continue to diminish, allowing the mother to feel more comfortable.
2. Weight Gain: By the 15th week, some women may notice a gradual increase in weight as their appetite returns and they begin to eat more regularly. However, weight gain varies from person to person and depends on factors such as pre-pregnancy weight and individual metabolism.
3. Visible Changes: The baby bump continues to grow more pronounced as the uterus expands. Some women may also notice changes in their skin, such as darkening of the nipples and the appearance of a linea nigra (a dark line running from the navel to the pubic bone).
4. Emotional Well-being: With the reduction in symptoms and the progression of the pregnancy, many women feel more positive and emotionally stable during the 15th week. However, mood swings and emotional fluctuations may still occur.

For the Baby:

1. Fetal Growth: By the 15th week, the baby has grown significantly in size and weight. It is now approximately 4 to 4.5 inches long and weighs about 2 to 2.5 ounces.
2. Organ Development: Organ systems continue to mature and develop. The baby’s bones are hardening, and its muscles are becoming stronger. The digestive system is also developing, with the intestines beginning to absorb small amounts of amniotic fluid.
3. Movement: The baby is becoming more active, moving its arms, legs, and fingers with increasing coordination. While these movements are still mostly reflexive, some women may start to feel occasional flutters or “quickening” as the baby moves around in the womb.
4. Facial Features: Facial features become more defined, with the eyes and ears continuing to move into their final positions. The baby’s face may look more human-like, with distinct eyelids, a nose, and a mouth.

Overall, the 15th week of pregnancy is a time of continued growth and development for both the mother and the baby. It’s essential for the mother to continue receiving regular prenatal care and to maintain a healthy lifestyle to support the baby’s growth and well-being.