Skin changes, stretch marks appearing, and baby’s lungs preparing for birth.
You’re 22 weeks pregnant! You’re more than halfway through your pregnancy, and your baby is growing quickly, moving more, and developing new abilities! Your belly is expanding, and you may notice stronger baby kicks along with some new pregnancy symptoms.
Let’s explore your baby’s growth, changes in your body, and how to manage symptoms at 22 weeks pregnant.
What’s Happening to Your Baby?
At 22 weeks, your baby is about the size of a papaya (19-22 cm or 7.5-8.5 inches long, head to toe) and weighs around 430 grams (15 oz). Your little one is developing essential organs, strengthening muscles, and preparing for the outside world.
Major Developments This Week:
Baby’s Movements Are Stronger & More Frequent! – Kicks, jabs, and rolls are becoming more powerful and noticeable.
Baby Has Eyebrows & Eyelashes! – Fine hair is growing on baby’s face.
Lips Are More Defined! – Baby’s mouth is becoming more developed.
Hearing Is Even Better! – Baby recognizes your voice and other familiar sounds.
Developing Grip Strength! – Baby is grabbing the umbilical cord and touching their face.
Brain Growth Is Rapid! – Neurons and nerve connections are forming to help baby process sensations.
Lung Development Continues! – Baby is practicing breathing movements in the amniotic fluid.
Skin Is Less Transparent! – Fat layers are forming, making baby’s skin less see-through.
What’s Happening to Your Body?
At 22 weeks pregnant, you may feel stronger baby movements, notice your growing bump, and experience new pregnancy symptoms.
Common Symptoms at 22 Weeks Pregnant:
Feeling Stronger Baby Kicks! – Baby’s movements are becoming more noticeable and frequent.
Growing Baby Bump! – Your uterus is about an inch above your belly button.
Back Pain – Your growing belly changes posture and puts pressure on your back.
Round Ligament Pain – Stretching or pulling pain in your lower belly as your uterus expands.
Leg Cramps – More pressure on your legs and mineral imbalances can lead to cramps, especially at night.
Increased Appetite – You may feel hungrier as baby’s growth speeds up.
Swelling in Feet & Ankles (Edema) – Mild swelling due to increased fluid retention.
Shortness of Breath – Your growing uterus is pressing on your lungs.
Heartburn & Indigestion – Hormones relax digestion, causing acid reflux.
More Visible Veins (Spider Veins & Varicose Veins) – Increased blood flow makes veins more noticeable.
How to Cope with Week 22 Pregnancy Symptoms
1. Managing Stronger Baby Movements
Enjoy bonding with your baby!
Keep track of baby’s movement patterns.
If movements slow down significantly, contact your doctor.
2. Easing Back Pain
Maintain good posture and avoid slouching.
Use a pregnancy pillow for support while sleeping.
Do gentle stretches or prenatal yoga to ease back pain.
3. Preventing Leg Cramps
Stretch your legs before bed to reduce cramping.
Eat calcium and magnesium-rich foods like dairy, bananas, and nuts.
Massage your legs or apply heat if cramps occur.
4. Handling Round Ligament Pain
Stretch gently or try prenatal yoga to relieve tension.
Change positions slowly to avoid sudden discomfort.
Use a belly band for extra support if needed.
5. Coping with Swelling in Feet & Ankles
Elevate your feet when sitting or lying down.
Wear comfortable shoes and avoid tight socks.
Drink plenty of water to reduce water retention.
6. Reducing Heartburn & Indigestion
Eat small, frequent meals instead of large ones.
Avoid spicy, greasy, and acidic foods that trigger heartburn.
Don’t lie down right after eating – wait at least 1-2 hours.
7. Managing Shortness of Breath
Sit and stand up straight to give your lungs more space.
Take deep breaths and slow down when needed.
Sleep with extra pillows to elevate your upper body.
What Should You Be Doing in Week 22?
Since you’re over halfway through pregnancy, here’s what to focus on this week:
1. Keep Attending Prenatal Appointments
Your doctor will check your uterus size, baby’s heartbeat, and overall health.
If you had your 20-week anatomy scan, your doctor may review the results.
2. Keep Taking Your Prenatal Vitamins
Ensure your vitamin contains 400-800 mcg folic acid for brain and spinal cord development.
A vitamin with DHA & Omega-3s supports baby’s brain growth.
3. Eat a Healthy Pregnancy Diet
Include protein-rich foods like eggs, chicken, and tofu.
Eat calcium-rich foods like yogurt, milk, and cheese.
Stay hydrated – Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily.
4. Track Your Baby’s Movements
Start noticing baby’s movement patterns throughout the day.
Movements will become stronger and more predictable in the coming weeks.
5. Research Childbirth & Parenting Classes
Consider signing up for prenatal classes about labor, delivery, and newborn care.
Some hospitals offer virtual or in-person classes.
6. Plan for Maternity Leave
Look into your workplace’s maternity leave policies and benefits.
If you plan to return to work after birth, start thinking about childcare options.
Final Thoughts
You’re 22 weeks pregnant, and your baby is growing bigger, stronger, and more active! This is an exciting time, especially as you feel more movement and prepare for upcoming prenatal visits.
Your baby is developing tiny features, reacting to sound, and preparing for big growth ahead. Symptoms like back pain, heartburn, and leg cramps may still happen, but you’re doing an amazing job!
