Your baby at week twenty two of pregnancy
Your precious baby is now around 28cm in length, is about the size of a papaya, and weighs almost 0.5 kg! Your little one’s lungs will start producing a protein to help him or her breathe more independently when they leave the comfort of your womb. Maturing brain cells and nerve endings assist rapidly improving senses of sight, hearing and touch.
Your baby’s grip will be surprisingly strong by now, and with nothing else to grab, they will most likely have a firm hold on the umbilical cord most of the time! Your baby’s eyesight will be rapidly developing and he or she will have a far better perception of light and dark, despite those eyelids not quite being open yet.
Your baby’s skin has become more opaque and pigmented, however it will remain wrinkly and red, and coated with the waxy vernix until the baby has a thick enough layer of fat to keep their body warm and fill out the skin.
Your baby’s eyes that you will soon be able to gaze into are now fully formed, however not yet pigmented, and often a baby’s eye color at birth changes as they get older.
Your body at week twenty two of pregnancy
Your belly is constantly growing and the top of your uterus now resides approximately three and a half cm above your belly button.
Hopefully you can now feel your baby’s movements, and notice them responding to noise such as your voice and you may notice them startle at loud noises!
As you approach the third trimester of your pregnancy, you may notice your feet are bigger than usual and that your ankles and feet become swollen and puffy.
You may also be experiencing the sensations of Braxton Hicks contractions, which is the gentle squeezing of your uterus as your body prepares for labor. This can feel like a tightening across your bump at first and whilst uncomfortable this is not at all dangerous for you or your unborn baby.
What you may be feeling at week twenty two of pregnancy
If you are employed you may be feeling a little stressed getting everything done ready for leaving. If you are used to the company and routine of your job you may feel anxious about losing this part of your life.
If your pregnancy is a second pregnancy you may feel bewildered that you will find equal amounts of love for a new baby. Don’t worry, there is a saying that each baby brings love with it and you will soon realize there is more than enough love for each child.
Common symptoms at week twenty two of pregnancy
- A blue tinge to your legs (this is related to hormones and not blood supply, it will settle after delivery
- Swollen gums and sensitivity
- Breast increase and darkening of the nipples which will be enlarging
- Nosebleeds due to increased blood-flow and sensitive nasal passages
- Shortness of breath
- Body aches
- Stretch marks
- Skin pigmentation
- Anxiety about the birth and parenthood
- Braxton Hicks contractions
Tips for week twenty two of pregnancy
- Get organized at work in case you need to leave work earlier than expected – pregnancy can be unpredictable and it will make you feel more in control to be up to date with your commitments.
- Invest in some comfortable shoes which may need to be a size bigger than usual; don’t worry your feet will return to their normal size soon after delivery!
- Pay attention to Braxton Hicks contractions if you experience them at this stage. They are normal but if they become too intense, too regular or are accompanied by any blood loss or discharge seek medical advice immediately in case of premature labor.
If you have any symptoms that concern you it is important to consult your doctor as soon as you can.