Are you 22 weeks pregnant and curious about how your little one is growing and changing? Congratulations! This week marks a major milestone in your pregnancy journey, as your baby has now formed all of its organs and established several important reflexes. On top of that, your body is making some big adjustments too as it prepares to give birth to this sweet bundle of joy. To help guide you through the changes happening during this exciting phase, here are the key factors that parents-to-be should know when their baby is 22 weeks old.
Your Baby At 22 Weeks Pregnant
As you reach the 22nd week of pregnancy, your baby is achieving some significant milestones in their development. By this time, your little one is forming unique facial features that will soon resemble those of their parents. Although their eyelids continue to remain shut, their eyes are restless, moving around behind them, waiting to take in the world once they are born. Additionally, your baby is putting on more weight, and their cheeks are getting chubbier by the day- perfect for all those cute baby pictures! At 11 inches long and weighing approximately one pound, your baby is similar in size to a classic Game Boy.
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Your Body at 22 Weeks
At 22 weeks of pregnancy, your body is going through some exciting changes. One of the most noticeable changes is your growing belly, which may cause your belly button to pop out. This is completely normal and happens because your uterus is expanding to accommodate your growing baby. But it's not just your belly that's changing - your body is also working hard to provide the nutrients and oxygen your baby needs to thrive. At this stage, you are over halfway through your pregnancy and your baby is continuing to develop and grow at an incredible pace. Take care of yourself and enjoy this special time as your body creates new life.
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22 Weeks Pregnant Symptoms
Increased Heartburn
Even if you haven't consumed many of the foods that typically trigger heartburn in you, you are likely experiencing increased heartburn. This is because hormones are playing a role once again.
Accelerating Heart Rate
The occasional occurrence of a rapid heartbeat is normal, albeit unpleasant or jarring. This is due to changes in blood volume as your heart pumps blood to the baby at a faster rate.
Hot Flashes
This may seem like a symptom associated with menopause, but it is not uncommon for pregnant women to experience this symptom at this stage. This is due to the production of hormones during this time.
"Outtie" Abdominal Button
As your uterus continues to expand, it puts pressure on your abdomen. If you have an internal belly button, it may protrude outward. It will return to normal after delivery.
Bigger feet
Despite popular belief, feet can grow during pregnancy. Your feet are composed of 26 bones and 33 joints, and since relaxin loosens all joints, they may spread. And excess weight also causes the foot to flatten. During these arduous months, when your arches could use the support, sturdy footwear may be able to prevent some deformation by providing ample support. And try going up a half size to make your feet more comfortable.
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22 Weeks Pregnant Symptoms to Pay Attention to
Contact your doctor if you experience any bleeding in conjunction with your cramps. Similarly, persistent pelvic heaviness, especially if accompanied by bloody, mucous, or watery discharge, is cause for concern. This could be a sign of cervical insufficiency, or premature cervix opening. Risk factors include a history of this condition and previous cervix surgery. Typically, the care team examines the cervix during the 18-22 week ultrasound to look for this as well. If this occurs, it may be possible to close the cervix with a cerclage. If you experience cramps accompanied by any type of bleeding, you will need to be evaluated by a medical professional.
22 Weeks Pregnancy Tips
As your baby continues to grow and develop, it's important to take care of yourself too. Here are a few tips to make your pregnancy journey easier and more enjoyable. Firstly, make sure you’re getting enough sleep and taking time to relax. Growing a tiny human is exhausting work! Secondly, consider investing in some comfortable clothes and shoes since your body is changing every day. Finally, don’t forget to talk to your baby and include them in your daily routines. They can hear you now and it's a great way to bond with them before they're even born. Keep these tips in mind and enjoy the rest of your pregnancy.
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Understanding Your Pregnancy Journey
Get ready to brace yourself for an exhilarating journey, because you've just hit the 22-week mark in your pregnancy! Your life is about to become even more awe-inspiring, with so much happening with your little one's development and your own body transformations. Yes, this is the magical time when you may start to feel the flutters of tiny kicks and movements, creating a symphony of joy within you!
But hey, let's not forget about the nutritional roller coaster you're on as well! As your baby grows, your body's demand for nutrients escalates. Now, more than ever, it's crucial to fill your plate with all the right foods and vitamins essential for your baby's growth. By staying on top of these requirements and tracking your progress, you're paving the way for a smooth and healthy pregnancy, leading to a safe and joyful delivery.
Don't just witness, but embrace every tiny wonder of this journey. Cherish every prenatal visit, every ultrasound, and every moment of your transformation into the realm of parenthood. But, in the midst of this incredible journey, take a breather and prioritize self-care too! Because you and your partner's well-being are fundamental to your growing family's happiness.
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Hungry for more tips on caring for your little one? Don't forget to swing by our blog! It's your go-to guide for becoming the parent you've always dreamed of being. Dive in now, the adventure awaits!
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