Pregnancy Week 22
Your baby is becoming more active and expressive this week. Facial features are becoming more defined, the senses continue to develop, and your baby’s movements are becoming stronger and more coordinated.
Your Baby This Week
Facial Features Become More Defined
At week 22, your baby’s face is becoming increasingly recognizable. The eyes, nose, lips, and eyebrows continue developing, while the facial muscles allow your baby to make small expressions and movements.
Although the eyelids remain closed, the eyes themselves continue developing beneath them.
Developing Senses
Your baby’s sensory systems continue maturing. Hearing is becoming more developed, and your baby can increasingly detect sounds and vibrations from inside and outside the womb.
The senses of touch and taste are also continuing to develop as the nervous system matures.
More Coordinated Movements
Your baby continues moving the arms and legs, stretching, kicking, and changing position.
As the nervous system develops, these movements become increasingly coordinated.
Senses & Movement
Your baby is about the size of a papaya. The face is becoming more defined while the senses, nervous system, and muscles continue to develop.
Your Body This Week
Your pregnancy may feel increasingly noticeable as your baby and uterus continue to grow.
Growing Belly
Your uterus continues expanding, and your belly may become more prominent. You may notice changes in your balance and posture.
Stronger Movements
Your baby's movements may become easier to recognize. You may notice kicks, stretches, rolls, or changes in activity throughout the day.
Skin Changes
Hormonal changes can cause pigmentation changes, including darker nipples or a darker line down the abdomen.
Swelling
Mild swelling of the feet or ankles can occur during pregnancy, particularly after standing for long periods or later in the day.
Tips for week 22
- Continue taking your prenatal vitamin every day.
- Eat a balanced variety of protein, vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and healthy fats.
- Include iron-rich foods regularly.
- Choose calcium rich foods to support your baby's developing bones.
- Include sources of omega-3 fatty acids such as low mercury, well-cooked fish.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Take regular breaks if you spend long periods standing or sitting.
- Elevate your feet when resting if you experience mild swelling.
- Continue pregnancy-safe physical activity if approved by your healthcare professional.
- Get enough sleep and rest.
- Avoid alcohol, smoking, and recreational drugs.
- Limit caffeine to 200 mg or less per day during pregnancy.
- Keep your prenatal appointments and recommended screenings.
Nutrition This Week
Your baby’s brain, nervous system, bones, and sensory systems continue developing rapidly.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Iron Rich Foods
Calcium Sources
Protein Rich Foods
Folate Rich Foods
Healthy Fats
Fruits & Vegetables
Whole Grains
Stay Hydrated
Nutrition Tip
Pair foods from different food groups throughout the day. Combining protein, whole grains, vegetables or fruit, and healthy fats can help provide a broad range of nutrients.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big is my baby at Week 22?
Your baby is approximately the size of a papaya. Exact measurements can vary depending on the timing of development.
What is developing during Week 22?
Your baby’s facial features are becoming more defined, while the senses, nervous system, muscles, and bones continue to develop.
Can my baby hear me at Week 22?
Your baby’s hearing system is developing, and your baby can detect many sounds and vibrations. Familiar voices and sounds may become increasingly noticeable as pregnancy progresses.
Can my baby open its eyes at Week 22?
The eyelids are still generally closed, but the eyes beneath them continue developing. The eyelids will open later in pregnancy.
Should I be feeling my baby move regularly?
Movement patterns vary considerably at this stage. Some people feel frequent movement, while others experience less predictable movements. Your healthcare professional can advise you about what to expect based on your pregnancy.
Is swelling during pregnancy normal?
Mild swelling of the feet and ankles can be common during pregnancy. However, sudden or significant swelling, especially if accompanied by severe headache, vision changes, upper abdominal pain, or other concerning symptoms, should be discussed promptly with your healthcare professional.
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