Baby Development Week 15-20: Milestones You Don’t Want to Miss
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Week 15
At week 15, your baby is about the size of an apple, and their bones are starting to harden. This week is all about sensory exploration, as their hearing and taste buds continue to develop. You may notice your baby reacting to loud sounds or sudden movements. They may even suck their thumb or fingers more frequently as they discover their sense of taste.
One of the most exciting milestones at week 15 is that your baby may start to recognize your voice! So don’t be afraid to talk, sing, or read to your little one.
Week 16
By week 16, your baby is the size of an avocado, and their movements are becoming more coordinated. They may even be able to move their head from side to side! This week is also when their eyes start to make rapid movements (REM) during sleep, which is a sign of brain development.
In terms of their senses, your baby is becoming more responsive to touch. You may notice them flinching or moving away when something touches their face or belly.
Week 17
At week 17, your baby is the size of an onion, and their heartbeat can now be heard with a stethoscope. They’re also starting to develop more fat under their skin, which will help regulate their body temperature after they’re born.
Your baby’s sense of touch is becoming more refined, as their nerve endings continue to develop. They may even start to grasp onto objects that touch their palms!
Week 18
By week 18, your baby is the size of a bell pepper, and their movements are becoming even more coordinated. You may start to feel more distinct kicks and jabs!
This week is also when your baby’s ears are fully formed, and they may be able to hear your voice more clearly. They’re also starting to develop their own unique set of fingerprints!
Week 19
At week 19, your baby is the size of a mango, and their movements are becoming even more complex. They may even start to do somersaults in the womb!
Your baby’s sense of taste and smell is becoming more refined, and they may start to react to strong smells or spicy foods that you eat.
Week 20
By week 20, your baby is the size of a banana, and their hair, eyebrows, and eyelashes may start to grow. They’re also starting to develop the ability to distinguish between different shades of light and dark.
Another exciting milestone at week 20 is that you may be able to feel your baby’s hiccups! Don’t worry, this is totally normal and a sign that their diaphragm is developing.
Overall, weeks 15-20 are a time of rapid growth and development for your baby. Take this time to bond with your little one, and enjoy the journey!
Frequently Asked Questions about Baby Development Week 15-20
1. What should I expect in terms of my baby’s movement at week 15?
Your baby’s movements may become more coordinated, and you may notice them reacting to sudden movements or sounds.
2. When will my baby start to recognize my voice?
Around week 15, your baby may start to recognize your voice!
3. Can my baby hear outside noises at week 20?
Yes, by week 20, your baby’s ears are fully developed, and they may be able to hear outside noises more clearly.
4. Why do babies hiccup in the womb?
Baby hiccups are a normal part of development and a sign that their diaphragm is developing.
5. When will my baby’s heartbeat be audible with a stethoscope?
Around week 17, your baby’s heartbeat may be audible with a stethoscope.