In the Week 22, your baby is
the size of a Sweet Potato
At week 22, your baby is growing steadily! Celebrate new milestones, adapt to body changes, and stay focused on a healthy pregnancy journey.
Welcome to week 22 of your pregnancy! As you step into the second half of your second trimester, your baby is growing steadily, and your body is changing to accommodate their development. Let's dive into the details of what you can expect during this exciting time.
At week 22, your body continues to adapt to your growing baby. From increased energy to mild discomforts, discover the common changes you may experience
Remember that every pregnancy is unique, and you may experience different symptoms than other expectant mothers.
At 22 weeks, your baby is growing rapidly with developing organs, adorable features, and increasing movements. Let’s explore these amazing milestones!
At 22 weeks, your baby is growing quickly, now able to hear sounds and even recognize your voice. Their sense of touch is developing, and they’re exploring their tiny world by grasping and moving. These are the weeks when we see incredible progress in brain growth and sensory development—a truly miraculous stage of life.
As your pregnancy progresses, your body undergoes various changes to support your growing baby. Here are the most prominent ones.
Early arrival
Discuss premature labour signs with the doctor to address concerns and get proper guidance.
Labor check-up
If your labour feels abnormal let the doctor examine you first for a correct diagnosis
Eat Healthy
Make sure to add variety in your meals to get energy, protein, vitamins, and minerals
Stay active
A moderately intense 30-minute physical activity on most days of the week is great.
Take Prenatal Vitamins
Ensure you take prenatal vitamins throughout your pregnancy and the postpartum period
Stay on top of your baby’s development with essential medical scans and check-ups in week 22. Here’s what to expect during this week of your pregnancy.
You will likely have a routine prenatal checkup, where your doctor will measure your blood pressure, check your weight gain, and assess your baby's growth and heartbeat.
If you haven't had your anomaly scan (also known as the 20-week ultrasound) yet, it may be scheduled during this week. This detailed ultrasound examines your baby's anatomy and checks for any potential abnormalities or developmental issues.
Yes, it is common to experience Braxton Hicks contractions, or "practice contractions," during the second trimester. These contractions help prepare your uterus for labour and delivery. They are usually irregular, infrequent, and not painful. However, if you experience regular, painful contractions, contact your doctor immediately.
It is generally recommended to avoid sleeping on your back during the second and third trimesters. As your uterus grows, it can put pressure on the large blood vessels that run along your spine, which can reduce blood flow to your baby. Try sleeping on your side, preferably your left side, with a pillow between your knees for added comfort.
In most cases, it is safe to travel during the second trimester, as long as you are experiencing a healthy pregnancy without complications. However, it is essential to consult with your doctor before making any travel plans. They can check your individual situation and provide guidance on travel safety and any necessary precautions.
Weight gain during pregnancy varies from person to person and depends on factors such as your pre-pregnancy weight and body mass index (BMI). On average, women with a normal BMI should aim to gain between 11 to 16 kg throughout their pregnancy. By week 22, you may have gained around 5 to 6.5 kg.
Yes, your baby's hearing is well-developed by week 22, and they can respond to sounds from the outside world, including your voice. Talking, singing, or reading to your baby can help create a bond and may even have a calming effect on them. Don't be surprised if you feel your baby move in response to familiar voices or music.
Mild swelling in the feet and ankles is common during the second and third trimesters. This swelling, known as oedema, is caused by the extra fluid in your body and the pressure of your growing uterus on the blood vessels in your legs. To alleviate swelling, try elevating your feet when resting, wearing comfortable shoes, and staying hydrated.
If you notice any vaginal discharge that has a strong odour, causes itching, or appears greenish or yellowish, contact your doctor. These could be signs of an infection, such as a yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis.
Managing stress is vital for your well-being and your baby's development. Try relaxation techniques like deep breathing or yoga, stay active with walking or swimming (with approval), share your feelings with loved ones, join a support group, or indulge in self-care activities like reading or taking a warm bath.
