HomePregnancyPregnancy SymptomsWeek 22 Pregnancy Symptoms, Tips and Baby Development

Week 22 Pregnancy Symptoms, Tips and Baby Development

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As you gradually near the end of your second trimester, it is time to have fun while you rejoice in some quality bonding time with your baby. Talk to them, and feel the subtle flutters in your belly as they try to communicate back to you.

This week in the pregnancy brings a mix of emotions, especially with the growing bump, tiny flutters, and bonding. But, you might start noticing stretch marks and purple lines running along the side of your abdomen. It is entirely normal; embrace it.

What Changes will my Body Undergo?

This week is when you might start experiencing your baby’s slight movements in the form of flutters. They aren’t as profound, but they are enough to incite a beautiful emotion in your mind.

As your baby grows and develops more each week, your body adjusts to changes. Your skin stretches on the exterior, leaving behind dark marks. Stretch marks are prevalent during pregnancy and aren’t something to be ashamed of. If you are worried about their appearance, use a lightweight moisturizer and gently caress through your bump.

Your uterus is continually growing this week, stretching to about 2 cm above your belly button. This week, you start to “pop” and become more visibly pregnant.

This week is also dominated by a hormone called relaxin that has multiple roles during pregnancy. It makes your feet look bigger, but it also helps your baby see the light of the world during their delivery.

Also read:- https://pregajunction.com/blog/week-20-pregnancy-symptoms/

What changes will my baby undergo?

Your baby is rapidly growing and developing inside you. According to the standard fetal measurement, the fetus should measure 7.5 inches and weigh around a kilogram.

As your fetus looks more “baby-like,” it is gaining more weight and starting to develop its internal organs inside the womb. Week 22 is when the baby’s eyes start forming. If you go for an ultrasound this week, you might notice their eyebrows and eyelids pop up on the screen.

You can also hear your baby’s heartbeat, pumping rapidly between 110-160 beats per minute. Their skeleton is continually hardening and becoming stronger with more uptake of calcium.

If we had to compare it to fruit references, your baby is now the size of a papaya.

Week 22 is when your baby starts to hear things as well. So, your doctor will advise you to talk to them, caress the bump and soothe them while they grow inside you. It is a fantastic way to bond with your child.

What kind of symptoms will I experience?

Pregnancy is a very subjective experience. While some women experience worse symptoms, some don’t. As you near the end of your second trimester, some symptoms that you might experience are:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Hemorrhoids
  • Backaches
  • Vaginal discharge
  • Varicose veins
  • Pelvic pressure

If you are experiencing anything unsettling or you see spotting or blood, consult your OBGYN immediately.

Also read:- https://pregajunction.com/blog/types-of-baby-delivery-during-pregnancy/

What should I prepare for this week?

You are halfway through your pregnancy, so there are several things you might consider doing this week. However, don’t rush into doing things since you have a lot of time. Don’t pressure yourself or don’t make yourself anxious by taking on more responsibility than you can handle.

As for a few quick tips, here’s what you can do:

  • Massage your abdomen and belly with a moisturizer to soothe your skin and reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
  • Talk to your baby while caressing your belly.
  • Start researching birthing and parenting classes to prepare yourself ahead of time.
  • If you are doing a home birth or water birth, research about doulas and book one for yourself.
  • Plan your babymoon with your partner for a quick getaway before the baby arrives.
  • Take it easy during this week as pain and body ache is common. Avoid standing for too long.
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Somapika Dutta (B.Sc Physiology, Honours)
Somapikar holds Bachelors Degree in Physiology from University of Culcutta. She has 6+ years of experience writing in different niches, including health, tech and lifestyle. An animal enthusiast and a raging foodie, experiencing life - one day at a time.

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