15 WEEKS PREGNANT

• In this image, the baby-to-be is curled up, the hands covering the face.
• The baby is about the size of a grapefruit.
• The large bones that make up the skull are forming and hardening.
• As they harden, the bones appear whiter and brighter in the image.

Now that you're into the second trimester, those unpleasant symptoms like nausea and frequent urination may be easing a bit but your skin might be acting up. You're likely to notice dullness, oiliness and acne. A weekly face mask can help deep cleanse your skin and leave it clearer and refreshed. Choose Mylo Tea Tree Face Mask , made with pregnancy-safe ingredients, that:

• Removes excess sebum & impurities.
• Minimises pores and acne.
• Gives even & bright complexion.

• Your baby now weighs about 70 grams and has grown to be about four inches in length.
• At this juncture of your pregnancy, it is important that you keep in mind that henceforth not all babies grow and develop at the same pace. Some grow swiftly, while some like to take their own sweet time.
• Your baby's primitive air sacs are beginning to form properly in the lungs, thanks to all the amniotic fluid that's moving through the nose and the upper respiratory tract.
• Your baby's legs are also developing steadily and are now longer than the arms.
• In the beginning we spoke about how your baby can taste the food you eat. He/she might not be able to decipher any taste yet as their taste buds are just about appearing.
• Your baby can now hear your voice, not very clearly though!
• Although your baby's eyelids will remain shut for many more weeks to come, but the baby can now figure out if the surroundings are dark or bright!

• Bleeding gums : Or, you can call this symptom 'Pregnancy gingivitis.' Don't you worry, it only sounds scary but in fact, is a very mild form of gum disease. Your gums are comparatively more inflamed and susceptible to bacteria in pregnancy. You know what you have to do now - nothing but focus on oral hygiene.
• Unexpected contractions : What you may be feeling now is also called the 'Braxton-Hicks Contractions.' They feel much like a tightening sensation happening in your uterus. These contractions are like practice sessions for your body for giving birth. In some women, they begin as early as the second trimester. These unexpected contractions become a regular affair for many in the third trimester.
• Shortness of breath : Gasping for air? As your baby is gradually growing, your uterus is pushing up against your diaphragm, which in turn leaves very little space for your lungs to expand. It may get worse as your bump grows. If you are facing difficulties even when breathing normally, then it is time to rush to the doctor.

• Now that most of the symptoms that had left you vexed are slowly waning, you must be feeling a whole lot better and more at ease with yourself and your surroundings.
• However, you must be feeling that some of the same symptoms from the previous weeks have not left you yet.
• Are you still feeling a little light-headed now and then?
• Is your nose still stuffed and occasionally bleeding? Swollen feet?
• Remember that all these symptoms are completely normal and that you are not alone in this journey. Let your partner and family be a part of this wonderful journey.
• Maintain a steady exercise routine and keep a check on your diet.