# Week 15 of Pregnancy

Source: https://www.pregnancypowerhour.com/pregnancy/week-15
Last updated: 2026-07-01

> Welcome to Week 15, a time when your baby, now about the size of an apple, is beginning to hear sounds, and you might be feeling a renewed sense of energy.

The second trimester often brings a gentle shift in how you experience pregnancy, and Week 15 is a wonderful example of this unfolding. Many parents-to-be find a little more ease and energy as some of the intense first-trimester symptoms begin to fade. It's a lovely time to lean into curiosity about the changes happening within you and with your baby.

## What's happening with baby

Around Week 15, your baby is making incredible strides in development, now roughly the size of an apple. One of the most remarkable developments this week is their ability to hear. While it's still muffled, they can pick up sounds from the outside world, like your voice and your heartbeat. Their tiny bones are continuing to harden, a process called ossification, and their muscles are becoming stronger, leading to more coordinated movements. Delicate lanugo, a fine, soft hair, might be starting to cover their body, which helps regulate temperature in the womb.

## What you might be feeling

For many, Week 15 ushers in that often-talked-about "second trimester glow." Nausea and fatigue, which can be so demanding in early pregnancy, often begin to subside, leaving you with more energy and a clearer mind. You might notice your bump becoming more visible, and perhaps even feel a deeper connection to the little one growing inside. Some people experience round ligament pain, a sharp or dull ache in the lower abdomen or groin, as your uterus expands. Skin changes, like a darkening line down your belly (linea nigra) or patches of pigmentation (melasma), are also common. Emotionally, you might feel a sense of calm settling in, perhaps a little less anxiety and more excitement as you move further into your pregnancy.

## A doula's lived take

As a doula, I've had the privilege of walking alongside many pregnant people during this phase, and I often hear a sense of relief and wonder. This is a beautiful time to start intentionally connecting with your baby. You might find comfort in talking to your belly, playing gentle music, or simply resting your hands there and focusing on your breath. These small moments can help build a foundation of connection and calm. It's also a great time to start thinking about what truly matters to you for your birth experience. There are so many options to explore, and you get to decide what feels right for you and your family. Remember, every choice you make, from how you spend your energy to how you envision your birth, is yours to own. This is about building your confidence and clarity.

## Questions worth asking your provider

As you settle into the second trimester, you might have new questions for your care team. One option might be to ask about the typical schedule of appointments for the coming weeks and what to expect at each. If you've had a MaterniT21 or similar non-invasive prenatal test, you might be discussing those results. It's also a good time to bring up any new symptoms you're experiencing, like round ligament pain, and ask for evidence-based strategies for comfort. Your provider is your best resource for your specific health situation, and open communication helps you feel informed and supported.