Week 22 Pregnancy: Your Baby’s Sense Of Touch Develops

At week 22 of pregnancy, your baby is growing rapidly, reaching the size of a papaya. This week, your baby’s senses are developing, their hair is beginning to grow, and they can now distinguish between light and dark. As your pregnancy progresses, you may notice several changes in your body, including an increased appetite, stretch marks, and breast growth, sometimes accompanied by leaking colostrum - a nutrient-rich fluid that serves as your baby's first milk. Routine tests and foetal development updates can provide valuable insights into your baby's health during this stage.

Week 22 body changes

In the 22nd week of pregnancy, you may notice several natural changes in your body. Many expectant mothers develop the beginnings of a "pregnancy glow," which is often remarked upon by those around them. You may also experience an increased appetite due to fluctuating hormone levels. This week is a period of significant growth for both you and your baby. As your baby grows and stretches upward, you might feel occasional breathlessness as they push into your ribs. You may also notice that your belly button starts to pop out, a common and harmless change caused by your growing uterus pushing against your abdominal wall. Moreover, you will start to see stretch marks on your belly, breasts, and thighs if they haven’t appeared already.

Additionally, your breasts may increase in size and might begin to leak colostrum, especially after a warm bath. It's also common to notice a slight increase in the size of your feet. This change is due to elevated levels of the hormone relaxin, which loosens the pelvic joints and ligaments to facilitate childbirth. Relaxin affects other joints and ligaments in your body as well, including those in your feet.

Week 22 pregnancy symptoms

In week 22 of pregnancy, you may experience several common pregnancy symptoms as your body continues to adapt to the growing baby:

• Backaches: 

  • Backaches like lower back pain are common due to a shifting centre of gravity and loosening ligaments. Practice good posture and try gentle stretches.

• Stretch marks: 

  • Common on the belly, thighs, and breasts. Moisturising can improve skin elasticity.

• Swelling (Oedema): 

  • Mild swelling in feet and ankles due to fluid retention. Elevate your legs and stay hydrated.

• Braxton hicks contractions:

  • These "practice contractions" mimic labour by causing your belly to tighten for a few seconds to two minutes. Unlike actual labour contractions, they are infrequent, unpredictable, and have no distinct pattern, disappearing as quickly as they appear.

• Leg cramps: 

  • Sudden, painful cramps in your legs, often at night. Stay hydrated, stretch regularly, and include magnesium-rich foods in your diet to help reduce cramps.

• Digestive issues:

  • Hormonal changes, abdominal pain, unusual food cravings, and the baby's pressure on your digestive tract can lead to gas, diarrhoea, and constipation.

• Heartburn: 

  • Baby's pressure on your stomach may cause reflux. Eat smaller meals and avoid lying down right after eating.

• Pregnancy acne:

  • Pregnancy hormones may affect your skin, leading to acne reminiscent of puberty. This is temporary and will eventually clear up. The best approach is to keep your face clean and avoid using chemical-based creams and serums, opting for organic and natural treatments instead.

  • Always consult your healthcare provider or a dermatologist before starting any acne treatment to ensure it is safe to use during pregnancy.

• Increased vaginal discharge: 

  • This is caused by high levels of pregnancy hormones and increased blood flow to the pelvic area as your body prepares for delivery.

• Fatigue: 

  • Hormonal changes and increased weight can leave you feeling tired. Rest often and do light exercises to stay energised.

Your baby at week 22

This week marks an important milestone for your baby! Now weighing over one pound (around 460 grams) and measuring about 28 cm (11 inches) from head to toe, your little one is roughly the size of a large papaya or a cake pan. Despite the weight gain, your baby still has very little body fat - just about one percent - and their skin remains wrinkly, ready to fill out in the coming weeks. You might notice the beginnings of hair on your baby’s head, which could grow thicker by the time of birth or remain fine and soft.

Your baby’s hearing and vision are also improving, even though their eyelids are still mostly fused. They can now distinguish between light and dark, and their tear ducts are starting to develop.

Their hands are now moving independently, and your baby may even begin grasping the umbilical cord! 

Pregnancy tests & screenings 

This week, your healthcare provider may perform routine checks such as monitoring your blood pressure, weight, and urine to ensure both you and your baby are healthy. These tests help detect conditions like preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, or urinary tract infections.

You might also undergo a detailed anatomy scan (if not already done in earlier weeks) to assess your baby’s growth and check for any structural issues or abnormalities. This scan also confirms the position of the placenta and amniotic fluid levels. If you wish, you can find out your baby’s gender during this scan. For high-risk pregnancies or specific concerns, your doctor may recommend additional tests like a cervical length scan to check for signs of preterm labour or an amniocentesis for genetic testing. If your healthcare provider hasn’t already discussed it, you may also be scheduled for a glucose challenge test soon to screen for gestational diabetes, which typically occurs between weeks 22–28.

Learn more about our prenatal scans for each trimester here.

At Thomson Medical, we offer personalised pregnancy tests and screenings tailored to each week of your pregnancy. You can always request an appointment with our specialists to discuss your pregnancy journey.

Preparing for Week 22 pregnancy

When you reach week 22, your pregnancy is progressing steadily, and preparing for this stage will help you stay comfortable and support your baby’s development. Here are some tips to make the most of this week:

1. Prioritise prenatal appointments:

   • Ensure you’re attending all scheduled prenatal check-ups. These visits monitor your health and your baby’s growth, and your healthcare provider may perform routine tests or an anatomy scan if not done earlier.

2. Stay active and comfortable:

   • Engage in light exercises like walking or prenatal yoga to maintain strength and reduce back pain. Invest in maternity clothes and supportive footwear as your body grows and changes.

3. Focus on nutrition:

   • Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins, iron, and folic acid to support your baby’s growth and your increased blood volume. Include iron-rich foods like spinach, lentils, and lean meats, and consult your doctor about prenatal vitamins to ensure you’re meeting your nutritional needs.

4. Track your baby’s movements:

   • Your baby’s movements become more noticeable around this time. Start paying attention to their kicks and rolls to familiarise yourself with their activity patterns.

5. Manage common symptoms:

   • Prepare for symptoms like backaches, heartburn, or swelling by incorporating simple habits like good posture, smaller meals, and elevating your feet.

6. Start thinking ahead:

   • Consider attending childbirth classes (antenatal classes) or exploring parenting resources to prepare for the months ahead. If you’re planning to take maternity leave, this is a good time to begin organising your work or personal commitments.

7. Pamper yourself:

   • Take time to relax and practise self-care. Use moisturisers for your stretching skin, rest when you feel tired, and enjoy moments of bonding with your baby.

Eager to find out what’s next? Explore pregnancy week 23 to learn how your baby’s features are taking shape and how to navigate the changes in your body. Alongside personalised care and expert guidance, you can also register for Thomson’s Courses & Workshops, designed to help you feel confident and informed throughout your pregnancy journey.

We understand that preparing for pregnancy can be overwhelming, and we're here to support you every step of the way. Request an appointment with us for personalised care and expert support to guide you through your pregnancy journey. 

FAQ

What does my baby look like at 22 weeks?

At 22 weeks, your baby is about the size of a papaya, measuring around 28-30 cm long and weighing roughly 430-500 grams. Their features are more defined, and they are developing tiny eyebrows and hair.

How often should I feel my baby move at week 22?

At this stage, you may feel your baby’s movements more regularly, though patterns vary. If you’re unsure about your baby’s activity, consult your healthcare provider regarding this. 

What are the dos and don’ts for a healthy pregnancy at 22 weeks?

Dos

• Eat a balanced diet rich in iron, calcium, folic acid, and vitamin C to support you and your baby.

• Stay active with light exercises like walking or prenatal yoga to maintain strength and flexibility.

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water to prevent swelling and support overall health.

• Get enough rest to manage fatigue and promote healthy development.

• Attend prenatal check-ups to monitor your baby’s growth and your health.

• Moisturise your skin to reduce dryness and itchiness caused by stretching.

Don’ts

• Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities that could strain your back.

• Limit caffeine intake to recommended levels to reduce risks to your baby.

• Avoid alcohol, smoking, and unpasteurised foods as they can harm your baby.

• Don’t lie flat on your back for extended periods, as it can restrict blood flow.

• Avoid raw or undercooked foods to minimise the risk of foodborne illnesses.

Is it normal to have back pain during this week?

Yes, back pain is common due to your growing belly and shifting centre of gravity. Practising good posture, wearing supportive shoes, and doing prenatal stretches can help alleviate discomfort.

Can I still exercise at 22 weeks?

Yes, light to moderate exercise, such as walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga, is usually safe and beneficial. Always consult your doctor before starting or continuing an exercise routine.

Should I worry about stretch marks in week 22?

Stretch marks are a natural part of pregnancy for many women. Keeping your skin moisturised can help reduce dryness and itchiness, though they may not prevent stretch marks entirely.

Is it normal for my belly to feel hard at 22 weeks pregnant?

Yes, it’s normal for your belly to feel hard at times during week 22 of pregnancy. This could be due to your growing uterus, the stretching of abdominal muscles, or even Braxton Hicks contractions, which are mild and irregular "practice" contractions. These sensations are typically harmless, but if the hardness is accompanied by pain, cramping, or other unusual symptoms, it’s best to consult your healthcare provider.

The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations and tailored advice, please consult a specialist at Thomson Medical. Request an appointment with Thomson Medical today.