“Pregnancy is the only time when you fall in love with someone you haven’t met yet.”
Welcome to Week 22 of pregnancy! You’ve officially crossed the midpoint of your beautiful journey, and both you and your baby are growing in more ways than one. This week is filled with new milestones, emotional transitions, and exciting changes. Baby’s senses are coming to life, and your body is learning how to balance the demands of nurturing new life while still taking care of you.
In this detailed guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Week 22—fetal development, your body’s adjustments, common symptoms, and practical wellness tips to help you feel more in control and connected during your second trimester.
🌱 Baby’s Development at 22 Weeks
At 22 weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of a papaya—approximately 11 inches long and weighing around 1 pound (450 grams). This week, development takes on a sensory twist. Your little one is beginning to hear your voice, respond to sounds, and even sense the rhythm of your body movements.
- Hearing: The inner ear is now fully formed. Your baby can hear your heartbeat, digestive noises, and external sounds. Talk, sing, or play calming music—it helps build early connections.
- Touch: Nerve endings are developing, making your baby more responsive to touch. They might start grasping the umbilical cord or touching their own face!
- Eyesight: While still closed, the eyes are forming rapidly. Baby can now perceive light through your belly. Try shining a soft light and see if they respond with movement.
- Lips and taste buds: Taste buds are maturing. Flavors from what you eat are carried into the amniotic fluid, introducing baby to the tastes of your diet.
All of these changes are helping your baby prepare for life outside the womb—getting used to the world slowly but surely from the comfort of your belly.
🤰 How Your Body Is Changing This Week
As your pregnancy progresses into its 22nd week, your belly is clearly showing now, and you’re likely feeling more regular fetal movements. These little flutters can be reassuring and magical.
Here’s what else you might experience this week:
- Round ligament pain: As your uterus stretches, you may feel sharp, brief pains in your lower abdomen or groin. This is common and usually harmless.
- Increased appetite: Your baby is growing fast, and your body needs extra fuel. Opt for nutrient-dense meals and snacks.
- Skin changes: Hormones may cause linea nigra (a dark line down your belly), or melasma (patchy facial discoloration). Use SPF and stay hydrated.
- Swollen ankles and feet: Circulation changes and fluid retention may cause swelling, especially by evening. Elevate your legs and avoid long periods of standing.
- Shortness of breath: As your uterus grows, it may start pressing against your diaphragm. Take breaks, practice deep breathing, and stay active gently.
🧠 Emotional and Mental Health at Week 22
Emotionally, Week 22 can feel like a settling point. Many expectant mothers describe feeling more confident and connected to their pregnancy now that symptoms like morning sickness have mostly subsided and fetal movements are becoming more regular.
However, mood swings can still arise due to hormonal fluctuations. You may experience:
- Heightened sensitivity to comments, body image, or emotional stories.
- Increased bonding as your baby responds to your voice and movements.
- Occasional anxiety about delivery, parenting, or health checkups.
Don’t hesitate to speak with your partner, a friend, or a professional if you feel overwhelmed. Mental wellness is a crucial part of your pregnancy journey.
🥗 Nutrition Tips for Pregnancy at 22 Weeks
At this point, your nutritional needs are still high—and your choices impact baby’s development directly. Here’s what to prioritize:
- Protein: Crucial for your baby’s tissue and brain development. Include lean meats, eggs, tofu, and legumes.
- Iron: To prevent anemia. Combine iron-rich foods (like spinach, lentils, fortified cereals) with vitamin C sources to improve absorption.
- Calcium: Your baby’s bones are hardening. Dairy, leafy greens, and fortified plant-based milks are excellent sources.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: For brain development. Add walnuts, chia seeds, and low-mercury fish like salmon.
- Hydration: Drink at least 8–10 glasses of water daily to support increased blood volume and prevent UTIs or swelling.
Pro tip: If you struggle with appetite or digestion, try smaller meals throughout the day. Don’t skip prenatal vitamins unless advised by your doctor.
🏃♀️ Movement and Exercise
Gentle movement helps ease aches, supports digestion, and boosts mood. Safe exercises during Week 22 of pregnancy include:
- Walking
- Swimming
- Prenatal yoga
- Stretching and pelvic tilts
Always check with your doctor before starting new exercises. Avoid contact sports, lying flat on your back for long, or overheating.
🧳 What You Can Do This Week
Here are some helpful to-dos for Week 22:
- Schedule your glucose screening test (between weeks 24–28).
- Keep a pregnancy journal to document baby’s kicks, cravings, and emotions.
- Start reading about childbirth education and postpartum care.
- Shop for maternity essentials if you haven’t already—think belly bands, supportive bras, and cozy sleepwear.
💬 Final Thoughts
Week 22 is about deepening your connection—with your baby, with your changing body, and with your growing confidence. It’s a time to celebrate how far you’ve come, while preparing lovingly for what’s ahead.
Stay tuned for Week 23, where we’ll dive deeper into fetal development, emotional care, and preparing for the next phase of your pregnancy journey. You’re doing beautifully, one week at a time. 🌼