Pregnancy week 22: baby development and changes

Welcome to week 22 of pregnancy at Happymami! We know that every week of your pregnancy is an exciting chapter full of new experiences and changes in your body. In week 22, your baby keeps growing and developing by leaps and bounds, and we are here to accompany you on this very special journey.

At Happymami, we are committed to giving you up-to-date information based on the latest scientific evidence, along with practical tips so that you feel safe and empowered during this stage. We know that many questions and worries can come up, and we are here to help you find answers and peace of mind.

So dive into this article and discover everything you need to know about week 22 of pregnancy. Let's start this exciting journey together!

If you don't want to miss the exciting path of pregnancy, we invite you to follow our Happymami pregnancy calendar. We are here to help you on this adventure!

Baby development in week 22 of pregnancy

In week 22 of pregnancy, your little one continues to experience incredible growth and development inside your womb. At this stage, the baby measures around 27 centimetres long and weighs around 430 grams. Although they are still small, their body is becoming more and more proportionate and their facial features are more defined.

One of the wonders of this week is the development of your baby's eyebrows and eyelashes.

These small facial features are starting to appear, adding even more charm to their forming face. What is more, their skin, which used to be transparent, is beginning to become more opaque and takes on a pinkish tone due to the growth of small blood vessels beneath the surface.

As for their senses, your baby continues to develop their ability to respond to external stimuli. Their eyes are now fully formed, although their iris still lacks pigment. In addition, their central nervous system is in full development, which allows them to perceive and process increasingly precise tactile and auditory sensations.

Another exciting step at this stage is the development of your baby's body temperature regulation system. Although it is still in progress, their body is beginning to produce a small amount of subcutaneous fat, which will help keep their temperature stable once they are born.

Symptoms in week 22 of pregnancy

During week 22 of pregnancy, you may experience a range of common symptoms as your body continues to adapt to your baby's growth and development. Here are some symptoms you might notice at this stage:

Increase in the size of your bump: As your uterus continues to expand to make room for your baby's growth, it is normal for your bump to become bigger and rounder.

Foetal movements: From this week onwards, you may begin to feel more defined and regular movements from your baby, such as kicks and turns. This is an exciting experience for many pregnant women and an encouraging sign that your baby is doing well.

Pelvic pain: The weight gain and the pressure of the growing uterus can cause discomfort and pain in the pelvic area. This is completely normal and is caused by the stretching of the ligaments and muscles that support the uterus.

Constipation: Hormonal changes can slow down the digestive system, which can lead to constipation during pregnancy. Make sure you keep to a diet rich in fibre and drink enough water to help prevent or relieve constipation.

Heartburn: As the uterus grows, it can put pressure on the stomach, which can cause heartburn and a burning sensation. Try to avoid spicy or fatty foods and eat smaller, more frequent meals to help reduce these symptoms.

Tiredness: Pregnancy can cause fatigue due to hormonal changes, weight gain and the extra physical load on your body. It is important to rest enough and listen to your body's signals to avoid exhaustion.

Remember that every pregnancy is unique and that symptoms can vary from one woman to another. If you experience severe or worrying symptoms, do not hesitate to contact your healthcare professional for guidance and appropriate care.

If you don't want to miss the exciting path of pregnancy, we invite you to follow our Happymami pregnancy calendar. We are here to help you on this adventure!

Risks in week 22 of pregnancy

1. Premature birth

Although it is rare, the risk of premature birth does exist. Warning signs include:

• Regular or painful contractions.
• Vaginal bleeding.
• Pelvic pain or intense pressure.
• Changes in vaginal discharge.

2. Pre-eclampsia

It can start to develop from the second trimester onwards. Symptoms include:

• High blood pressure.
• Swelling in the hands, feet or face.
• Persistent headaches.
• Changes in vision (blurred vision or flashes).

3. Gestational diabetes

This type of diabetes can appear during pregnancy and, if it is not controlled, it can affect both the baby and the mother. Risk factors include:

• Excessive weight gain.
• A family history of diabetes.
• Extreme fatigue or excessive thirst.

4. Infections

The immune system is more vulnerable during pregnancy, which increases the risk of infections such as:

• Urinary infection (pain when urinating, fever or pain in the lower abdomen).
• Bacterial vaginosis, which can cause abnormal vaginal discharge.

5. Problems with foetal growth

Although it is uncommon, intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) can be a risk. It is detected through ultrasound scans and monitoring of your baby's development.

6. Anaemia

The need for iron increases during pregnancy. If the mother does not take in enough iron, she can develop anaemia, which causes fatigue, weakness and a risk of complications during birth.

7. Musculoskeletal problems

The growth of the uterus can cause back pain, sciatica or discomfort in the pelvis due to weight gain and postural changes.

8. Irregular foetal movements

From this week onwards, your baby's movements are more noticeable. A significant decrease in movements can be a warning sign.

How does the mum-to-be feel in week 22?

This period can be marked by a combination of positive emotions and emotional challenges. Some women may feel excited and happily look forward to their baby's arrival, while others may experience anxiety or worry about the future and the changes that motherhood brings.

On the one hand, many women feel a stronger emotional connection with their baby during this stage of pregnancy, especially as they begin to feel the baby's movements more clearly. This connection can create feelings of love, excitement and gratitude towards the growing baby, as well as a sense of awe and wonder at the miracle of life.

However, it is also common for mums-to-be to have worries and anxieties about birth, raising their baby, changes to their lifestyle and the impact that motherhood will have on their life and their relationship with their partner. These worries can range from practical questions about baby care to emotional concerns about their ability to be a good mother.

In addition, it is important to bear in mind that pregnancy itself can be emotionally draining, as the body goes through a series of physical and hormonal changes that can affect mood and energy levels. Many women experience mood swings, fatigue and emotional sensitivity during pregnancy, which can influence their mental and emotional well-being.

If you don't want to miss the exciting path of pregnancy, we invite you to follow our Happymami pregnancy calendar. We are here to help you on this adventure!

Week 22 of pregnancy: Happymami tips

In week 22 of pregnancy, we want to offer you some tips so that you feel calm, cared for and ready to face the challenges and joys that come with this stage of pregnancy. Here are some tips from Happymami:

Prioritise your emotional well-being: During this stage of pregnancy, it is important to look after your emotional health as much as your physical health. Take time to relax, practise breathing or meditation techniques and talk about your worries with your partner, friends or a mental health professional if necessary.

Stay active: If your doctor allows it, keep doing gentle, safe exercise during pregnancy. Regular exercise can help you stay fit, improve your mood and reduce stress.

Make a list of preparations for the baby: Take advantage of this stage to start making a list of the things you will need for your baby's arrival, such as clothes, nappies, furniture and baby care items. Organise your space and start buying the necessary items little by little.

Plan your antenatal appointments: Do not skip your scheduled antenatal appointments with your doctor or midwife. These visits are important for monitoring your health and your baby's, so make sure you keep them in your diary and discuss any concern you have with your healthcare provider.

Eat healthily: A balanced, nutritious diet is essential for your health and your baby's. Make sure you include a variety of fruit, vegetables, lean protein and wholegrains in your daily diet, and drink enough water to stay hydrated.

Get enough sleep: Proper rest is crucial during pregnancy. Try to establish a regular sleep routine and create a calm, relaxing environment in your bedroom to promote better rest at night.

Enjoy your pregnancy: Despite the challenges and discomfort you may experience, try to enjoy this unique moment in your life. Give yourself permission to rest, pamper yourself and connect with your growing baby.

Remember that Happymami can be a perfect ally when the time for breastfeeding comes. You may not know yet whether you will use it or not, but with a Happymami bottle designed by you, as close a match as possible, the acceptance rates for the bottle increase and you also protect your baby from the teat-nipple confusion factor in newborns.

Frequently asked questions: week 22 of pregnancy

Is it safe to exercise during week 22 of pregnancy?

Yes, in most cases, gentle, regular exercise is safe and beneficial during pregnancy. However, it is always important to check with your doctor before starting or continuing any exercise programme.

Is it normal to have cramps in the lower abdomen during week 22 of pregnancy?

Yes, cramps and discomfort in the lower abdomen are common during pregnancy due to the growth of the uterus and changes in the pelvic ligaments. However, if the cramps are intense or persistent, it is important to tell your doctor.

How can I relieve back pain in week 22 of pregnancy?

Some ways to relieve back pain include keeping good posture, doing gentle stretching exercises, using support pillows and applying cold or warm compresses to the affected area. You can also consider physiotherapy if the pain is persistent.

Is it safe to fly during the second trimester of pregnancy?

In general, flying during the second trimester of pregnancy is considered safe for most pregnant women. However, it is important to check with your doctor before making travel plans and to follow the airline's safety recommendations.

What should I do if I feel that my baby is moving less than before?

If you feel that your baby's movements are less frequent or less intense than usual, it is important to tell your doctor straight away. It may be a sign that your baby needs to be checked to make sure they are well.