The picture is disturbing mostly because it does not have much to do with the development in the anime. And Aaeru looks too much like a housewife who leaves her home once a month, I just can't help but picture her as a very active person even when pregnant.
Episodes 15-17 are great, 18-20 not that great. I am curious to see whether my opinion will change after rewatching them.
From what you are saying I guess I am not missing much by having watched thus far a grand total of one episode from the new season.