Although the baby’s eyes are fused shut, he is sensitive to light now at pregnancy week 15. During pregnancy week 15 the baby is about 3.7 to 4.1 inches long. There is a rapid growth of the baby at this time. If it has genes for dark hair, the cells of his hair follicles will produce a dark pigment. He opens his mouth and regularly swallows amniotic fluid. He starts turning towards the direction of any stimulus of his mouth. The baby's body is generally in proportion now and his legs are longer than his arms and are able to bend its elbow and wrists. Very faint eyebrows and eyelashes start to appear, although his eyes are still closed. The skin is still very thin, and the complicated network of developing blood vessels can be seen beneath it. The baby moves freely in the uterus as he still has plenty of room to do so. During pregnancy week 15, the baby’s bones start becoming harder and stronger.

Changes and development in the mother’s body

A variety of changes like abdominal pain, breasts leaking, nose bleeds, hair and skin changes occur. By pregnancy week 15 the tummy looks quite bloated. The uterus rises past the hip bones and now it is 3 to 4 inches under navel. Most women also start noticing that their nose is more stuffed up than usual during pregnancy week 15 and beyond. This may not be because of cold, but rather due to increasing levels of estrogen circulating throughout the body which causes swelling in the mucous membranes during pregnancy. Due to the high levels of hormones in the body during pregnancy, patches of darkened skin might appear on the face. This is most likely to disappear when the baby is born. It might also be noticed that any mole or beauty marks become darker or bigger during pregnancy. Constipation is another symptom that may be noticed during pregnancy week 15. Drinking lots of water and fluids will be a great relief from constipation.

Healthy diet

Try to eat a varied, healthy diet with as much fresh food as possible. Calcium is recommended for strong bones and teeth like milk, yoghurt and cheese, tinned fish with soft edible bones, white bread, pizza, pastry, Calcium for strong bones and teeth Milk, yoghurt and cheese. Iron should be consumed to get rid of tiredness and zinc for growth and health. 60 grams of protein each day should be taken daily during pregnancy. Protein rich foods include red meat, dairy eggs and peanut butter.

By now the mother should start learning to sleep on her left side because circulation is best that way. Lying on the back or stomach after about the fourth or fifth month can put extra pressure on the growing uterus and decrease circulation to the baby. Pillows could be tucked behind and between the legs. Pregnancy pillows are also available in the market that supports the entire body. Most healthcare prooviders also recommend to keep the heart rate below 140. This will help from becoming over fatigued and the baby also gets adequate supply of oxygen too. Heavy weight should not be lifted during pregnancy as lifting heavy weights cut off oxygen supply to the uterus for that moment.