22 Weeks Pregnant: More Intense Symptoms and Baby's Major Developments

At 22 weeks pregnant, your little one may already be sucking their thumb, a crucial skill they'll need for life on the outside. This new reflex is just one of many new developments you can expect as you pass the halfway point in your pregnancy journey.

Here’s a look at your baby’s amazing development and the key changes to expect in your own body this week.

What's Your Baby Up to at 22 Weeks?

Your baby is about the size of a papaya or a sweet potato (kamote). According to the American Pregnancy Association, they weigh approximately 0.4 kg (14 oz) and measure around 25 cm in length (10 in).

Developing newborn features

Your baby's once-transparent skin is now becoming more opaque. While it’s still a bit wrinkly, fat deposits are starting to form under the skin and fill it out, notes The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).

Their facial features, including lips, eyelids, and eyebrows, are also becoming more distinct.

Practicing for the outside world

The ACOG also notes that if your baby’s hand drifts to their mouth at this time, they may start thumb-sucking. Your baby is practicing their sucking reflex, which is nature's way of getting them ready for breastfeeding. It's also one of their first ways to self-soothe.

Your baby’s position and movement

Baby movements become stronger and more regular when you’re 22 weeks pregnant. You’ll begin to feel those gentle flutters turning into more distinct flips, kicks, and turns.

You may even start to notice patterns, as your baby becomes more active at certain times of the day. You may feel kicks in your lower belly, which is common as they explore their space.

Major developments in the womb

Another incredible development includes a heartbeat strong enough to be heard with a stethoscope. Your little one's intestinal tract is also busy creating meconium, the first stool after birth.

Checking In With Your Body at 22 Weeks

At 22 weeks pregnant, you can feel your baby’s kicks and rolls become more frequent and stronger

You can expect new or more intense symptoms as your baby grows and your bump becomes more visible.

Backaches and sleep positions

As your growing uterus shifts your center of gravity, you may experience more discomfort, especially in the back area. To prevent back pain, try keeping your pelvis level when walking or standing. When your pelvis tips forward, it creates a deep curve in your lower back, straining your muscles.

After 20 weeks, you should avoid sleeping on your back, as your uterus can press on a central vein and reduce blood flow. The Sleep Foundation recommends side-sleeping, especially on your left side, to help boost circulation to your baby and reduce leg swelling.

Stretch marks

At 22 weeks, you may also start to notice stretch marks on your abdomen, upper thighs, and breasts. These streaks, which may be pink, red, or brown depending on skin tone, appear due to pregnancy hormones and your stretched skin.

Don’t worry, stretch marks usually fade after birth. Use a good moisturizer to soothe any itchiness and to help your stretched skin.

Increased discharge

It’s typical to see an increase in milky-white or clear vaginal discharge during pregnancy. This is called leukorrhea, and it helps protect your birth canal from infection.

Mood swings

Hormonal changes can still cause emotional ups and downs during the second trimester, so be gentle with yourself and lean on your support system. However, if your mood swings feel severe or start to interfere with your daily life, reach out to your doctor.

Your Nutritional Checklist at 22 Weeks

Eating healthy benefits you and your baby so much. Create a balanced meal plan that includes a variety of nutrient-dense foods to support you both. Following the Philippine Daily Reference Intakes ensures you’re getting enough vitamins and minerals, such as:

• Iron: Good sources include lean meat, poultry, beans, and iron-rich foods such as spinach.
• Omega-3s: A 2020 study in Nutrients found that one type of fatty acid, DHA, is a vital building material for the brain. Natural sources include salmon, chia seeds, and walnuts.
• Protein: Include eggs, chicken, dairy, and legumes in your diet to meet your protein needs.
• Calcium: You can get plenty of calcium from yogurt, milk, and leafy greens.

Remember to drink plenty of water and keep your energy levels up with healthy snacks, such as fruit and yogurt. Your doctor will let you know if you need to prenatal vitamins to ensure you're getting the necessary nutrients.

Helpful Tips for Week 22

Staying active with prenatal yoga can soothe pregnancy aches and lift your spirits.
 

A little self-care can go a long way in making you feel more comfortable at 22 weeks.

• Wear comfortable and supportive shoes.
• Stay active with light exercises, such as walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga, to alleviate aches and boost your mood.
• Use pillows to support your growing belly and back while you sleep or sit.
• Journal or talk with a partner or friend to track your emotional health.
• Start looking into prenatal classes or thinking about your birth plan.
• Call your doctor if you notice warning signs like regular contractions, unusual bleeding, fluid leakage, or sudden swelling in your face or hands.

Every pregnancy is unique, so your experience at 22 weeks pregnant might be different from another’s. But you can expect your baby's kicks to feel stronger as they move around your growing belly. Embrace this special time and listen to your body.

Want to share your own stories or ask questions about being 22 weeks pregnant? Join the ParentTeam Moms and Dads Facebook group and connect with other parents.