Pregnancy Week 22: What to Expect
Baby's development, your body's changes, common symptoms, what to eat, and what to do this week.
Baby's development at week 22
Baby's eyes are formed (still no color pigment — they will not get full color until 6-9 months after birth). Eyelids are still fused but will open in a few weeks. Baby's lips, eyelids, and eyebrows are clearer. Baby practices grasping — sometimes grabbing the umbilical cord. Baby's hearing is mature enough to recognize your voice. Baby is now developing the capacity to feel pain (though most agree real pain perception is not until later).
What's happening in your body
Your uterus is now well above the belly button. The bump pushes the belly button outward — it may pop. Skin on the belly is taut and possibly itchy. Possible Braxton Hicks contractions. Sleeping comfortably is harder. Some people get hemorrhoids (varicose veins around the rectum) from the increased pressure and constipation.
Common symptoms at week 22
Stretch marks may appear (genetics-determined). Hair feels thicker (the pregnancy phase that does not shed). Skin glows or breaks out. Belly button popping out for some. Possible hemorrhoids. Mild back pain. Heartburn. Strong fetal kicks; baby may respond to loud sounds or light.
When to call your provider
Severe back pain (especially with bleeding or contractions), heavy bleeding, watery discharge, regular painful contractions, severe abdominal pain — call provider. Sudden swelling in face, hands.
How to feel better this week
Set up a baby registry if you have not. Most people use the Baby Registry Builder around now to think through what they actually need. Continue Kegels. Hydrate well. Walk daily. Manage hemorrhoids with high-fiber diet, lots of water, witch hazel pads, and avoiding straining. Mention to provider; safe topical treatments are available.
Nutrition focus for week 22
Continue iron, calcium, protein, healthy fats, fiber. Stay hydrated to manage constipation and hemorrhoids. Add foods with magnesium (nuts, seeds, leafy greens, dark chocolate) for leg cramps and sleep.
For your partner
Set up the registry together. Tour the registry-friendly stores together if you want; build a shared list online.
This week's to-do
Set up baby registry. Apply belly lotion. Manage hemorrhoids if any.
Is this normal?
Stretch marks are mostly genetic. Some people slather creams and still get them; others do nothing and never get them. They fade significantly postpartum but never fully disappear.
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