Reaching the 22-week pregnancy milestone is a big deal! It’s that sweet spot where you really start to feel how far you’ve come. Your energy is back, your bump starts to show beautifully, and those baby kicks are getting stronger by the day. It may be hard to believe, but at 22 weeks pregnant, you’re officially halfway through your journey!
As the 22-week mark of the second trimester, it is the most enjoyable phase of pregnancy. This stage brings the perfect mix of comfort, excitement, and visible progress. But beyond all the improvements you’re noticing this week, there’s a lot happening inside your body that deserves your attention. So, let’s dive in to learn more!
Baby’s Growth at 22 Weeks
At 22 weeks, your baby is around 27.8 cm long and weighs about 460 grams, roughly the size of a sweet potato. This is also the stage when your baby is growing super quickly. Those tiny flutters you felt earlier now start turning into clearer kicks and movements.
But that’s not all. Your baby’s lungs are developing, and they’ve started swallowing amniotic fluid, which will later become their first poop after birth, called meconium. And the most amazing part? Their taste buds are forming too, which means the flavours of what you eat can actually reach them.
Body Changes You’ll Notice This Week
Around 22 weeks, your bump usually rises a little above your belly button and starts looking more defined. Many moms gain about half a kilo a week around this time, and that’s considered normal. But keep in mind, every pregnancy grows at its own pace, so don’t compare yourself with others.
Also, if you have any concerns, always reach out to your gynae for reassurance.
Your 22-Week Pregnancy Scan
At 22 weeks, it’s time for the anomaly scan. This is when you get a chance to catch a glimpse of your baby’s movements. It also helps the doctor check your little one’s organs, reflexes, amniotic fluid levels, and overall growth. With this scan, they can give you a clearer picture of your baby’s progress so far.
Common Symptoms at 22 Weeks Pregnant
As already mentioned, once you enter the second trimester, many of the troublesome symptoms start to ease. But along with that relief, a few new changes may also show up such as:
- Stretch marks may start appearing as the skin on your belly stretches to make space for your growing baby.
- Some moms-to-be notice dark patches on their face and neck. But these usually fade on their own after delivery.
- Baby movements become more noticeable. Many moms feel stronger kicks around this time, while others feel them a little later. Both are normal because every pregnancy is different.
- Also, it’s not just about the tummy that changes, some expectant moms also notice slight swelling in their legs at this stage.
- Bloating and constipation also become more common around this time because of hormonal changes and the growing baby pressing on your digestive system.
Tips to Feel Your Best This Week
Here are a few simple habits that can lighten your load at 22 weeks of pregnancy:
- As your belly bump grows, start wearing soft, breathable clothes that give you enough space and don’t feel tight on your skin.
- Also, gentle walking and prenatal yoga are great activities during pregnancy. They’ll help with digestion, improve sleep, and ease body aches. So, it’s the perfect time to start looking for a yoga instructor who specialises in prenatal care!
- Since your baby’s taste buds are developing this week, start focusing on eating well-balanced meals. Add more fruits and green vegetables to your diet to give both you and your baby the nutrients you need.
- Avoid heavy workouts or strenuous activities. If you want to stay active, make sure you do so with your doctor’s approval and follow their recommendations.
- Stick to your prenatal vitamins and medications as advised by your doctor. These are essential for your baby’s development and your own health during pregnancy.
- As stretch marks can develop around this time, it’s a good idea to start moisturising your belly daily. This will help keep your skin hydrated and may reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
Wrapping Up!
So mamas-to-be, if you’re 22 weeks pregnant, give yourself a little pat on the back, you’ve already crossed half the journey to meeting your baby. From here on, it’s all about taking care of yourself, supporting your growing little one, and soaking in these happy moments. Trust me, these weeks won’t come back, and you’ll miss them more than ever.
