Pregnancy Week 15

At 15 weeks pregnant, your baby is entering a phase of rapid growth. They may be around 10cm long from head to bottom — about the size of an apple — although babies vary.

Your baby’s movements are becoming more varied, although they are still too small and subtle for most people to feel. They can make small movements such as turning their head, opening their mouth, moving their hands and bending their wrists.

The hands are becoming more capable too, with early grasping-like movements and the ability to make a tiny fist. These movements are useful practice, helping the brain, nerves and muscles work together more smoothly.

At 15 weeks pregnant, you may begin to notice mild swelling in your ankles or feet, especially later in the day, after standing for a long time, or in warm weather. This can happen because your body is carrying more fluid and pregnancy affects your circulation.

Mild swelling in the feet and ankles can be common, but do not ignore swelling completely. Keep an eye on where it appears, how quickly it comes on, and whether it improves with rest.

Mention swelling at your routine appointments, especially if it is becoming uncomfortable or persistent. Seek advice promptly if swelling is sudden, severe, affects your face or hands, or comes with symptoms such as a bad headache, vision changes, pain high in your tummy, or feeling very unwell.

You may also notice:

The practical approach this week is simple: move regularly, elevate your feet when you can, drink enough fluids, and avoid standing still for long stretches.

By Week 15, many people are keen to feel the baby move. You know your baby is active, but you probably still cannot feel it yet, especially if this is your first pregnancy.

That can feel frustrating. Movement is one of the first ways pregnancy starts to feel interactive, so waiting for it can make this stage feel a little abstract.

You may hear stories from people who felt movement very early, but try not to use that as your benchmark. First movements are often subtle and easy to miss. They can feel like bubbles, flutters, pops or tiny muscle twitches, and they are more commonly noticed a bit later.

This week, focus on circulation, comfort and body awareness.

If swelling is bothering you, try:

Start learning what early baby movement can feel like, but do not worry if you feel nothing yet. Most people feel first movements later than this, particularly in a first pregnancy.