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Illustration of a developing fetus at 15 weeks, showing a curled posture with visible arms, legs, and facial features. The fetus appears to be moving slightly, indicating the start of noticeable fetal movements. The soft lighting highlights the details, emphasizing the growth and development at this stage.

Week 15 - Fetal Movements 

Bobo Team  •  Pregnancy  •  2 min read

​​​​​Welcome to week 15 of this extraordinary journey with your partner!

Bobo will be sending you and your partner weekly updates on your pregnancy progress, child development, and Canadian based information up to the age of two. Here's what you can expect during this stage of your pregnancy.

Your Baby's Development

At 15 weeks into the pregnancy, your baby is about the size of an apple. They're stretching out their limbs, gaining coordination, and becoming more active, flexing and moving their arms and legs with increasing dexterity. During this time, they're honing essential skills like sucking, breathing, and swallowing, laying the groundwork for their development in the womb.

Partner's Role in Healthcare Decisions: Screening Tests

As the pregnancy progresses, it's essential to be aware of various healthcare options, particularly concerning screening tests, to ensure the well-being of both the mother and the baby. Throughout pregnancy, several screening examinations are available to assess potential developmental concerns in the fetus.

  • Integrated Prenatal Screening: Typically the first blood test and ultrasound conducted between 11 and 13 weeks, and the second blood test between 15 and 20 weeks. It mirrors the First Trimester Combined Screening followed by the Alpha-fetoprotein assay. It encompasses ultrasound, nuchal translucency measurement, and two blood tests to assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities or neural tube defects.

Disclaimer: All screening information is sourced from the Government of Manitoba website. However, due to limited resources and availability, not all screenings and diagnostic tests may be conducted.

Physical and Emotional Changes

During the 15th week of your partner's pregnancy, you may notice a mix of ongoing symptoms and new developments. Heartburn, indigestion, headaches, round ligament pain, faintness, dizziness, varicose veins, a stuffy nose, nosebleeds, and swollen gums might persist or arise during this time. Additionally, you might observe weight gain as her body accommodates the growing baby. Furthermore, you might notice changes in cognitive function, often referred to as "pregnancy brain," as alterations in brain cell volume occur during pregnancy.

Supporting Your Partner

During week 15 of pregnancy, fathers can provide crucial support to mothers, especially considering the phenomenon of "pregnancy brain." This week, partners can help by offering understanding and patience as the mother navigates through potential forgetfulness or mental fog. Simple gestures like writing down important dates, reminders, or lists can assist in managing daily tasks. Additionally, fathers can actively participate in conversations and decisions, helping to alleviate any stress or anxiety the mother may feel due to memory lapses. Offering reassurance and encouragement can go a long way in creating a supportive and understanding environment during this time of cognitive change.

Sources

Articles have been medically reviewed by an obstetrician gynecologist. This information is provided for educational and entertainment purposes only. We do not accept any responsibility for any liability, loss or risk, personal or otherwise, incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, from any information or advice contained here.

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