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🌿Second TrimesterWeeks 14-27

Week 15 of Pregnancy

Your baby is the size of apple
📏
Length
3.98 inches
⚖️
Weight
2.5 ounces
🍎
Size Comparison
Apple

👶 Baby Development

  • Legs are growing rapidly and are now longer than the arms
  • Bones are hardening (ossifying) though they're still flexible
  • Baby can sense light through closed eyelids and may move away from bright light
  • Taste buds are fully formed and baby can taste amniotic fluid
  • Hair pattern on scalp is developing, determining hairline and hair growth patterns
  • All joints and limbs can move fully
  • Ears are positioned correctly and can detect sounds

💭 Common Symptoms

  • Significant second trimester energy boost - many women feel their best now
  • Possible nosebleeds due to increased blood volume and expanded blood vessels
  • Swollen, tender gums (pregnancy gingivitis) that may bleed when brushing
  • Baby bump is clearly showing and growing rapidly
  • Skin may have a healthy "pregnancy glow" from increased blood flow
  • Possible stuffy nose and congestion
  • Weight gain becomes more noticeable (1/2 to 1 pound per week is normal)

🥗 Nutrition Tips

  • Continue prenatal vitamins with iron, folic acid, and calcium daily
  • Eat 3-4 servings of calcium-rich foods daily (1000mg total)
  • Include 25-30g of protein at every meal from varied sources
  • Snack on healthy options like nuts, yogurt, fruit, and whole grain crackers
  • Eat foods rich in vitamin A like sweet potatoes, carrots, and spinach
  • Include omega-3 rich fish (2 servings weekly) or plant sources
  • Drink water with meals to help with swallowing and digestion

To-Do This Week

  • Continue regular prenatal appointments (every 4 weeks during second trimester)
  • Start brainstorming and discussing baby names with your partner
  • Consider amniocentesis if recommended due to age, family history, or abnormal screening results
  • Exercise regularly with activities like walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga for 30 minutes most days
  • Schedule a dental cleaning to address pregnancy gingivitis
  • Start researching childcare options if you'll be returning to work
  • Consider creating a baby registry
💡

Did You Know?

Your baby can now perceive light filtering through your belly, even though their eyelids are still sealed shut! They may even move away if you shine a bright light on your belly.