Pregnancy week 22
At only 7 1/2 inches long and around 12 ounces, the fetus in week 22 has eyebrows, eyelids, eyelashes, and nails. The organs have already specialized and the reproductive and digestive systems are still maturing. Some babies will even have developed the first signs of teeth and lips during week 22. Usually, if stretch marks haven’t yet appeared, they will at this point. Stretch marks vary in color from pink, purple, or brown and can occur even if lotions have been applied throughout the entire pregnncy. Stretch marks tend to fade after delivery but how thoroughly they fade depends on family history. Chances are that if a woman’s mother does not have stretch marks, neither will she. Although many women experience a “glow” during pregnancy, others usually experience acne along their face, arms, and legs. This goes away after birth but can get better during the third trimester. If the baby is a girl, 7 million eggs are ready inside her ovaries. If the baby is a boy, the testicles have begun to move down into the scrotum. The tell-tale sign of pregnancy at week 22 is probably lower back pain. Although it can begin at week 22, low back pain usually plagues women until the end of their pregnancy. Hormonal and weight fluctuations, a growing uterus, and a different center of gravity are all causes of low back pain during this period of pregnancy. Exercises incorporated into a pregnancy workout routine which help develop strong abdominal muscles can help during this week. Just by improving posture, a great deal of the pain can be avoided. Also, pregnancy pillows are again essential for a comfortable rest. A maternity support belt can also be used to help reduce the strain on the back during pregnancy. Also, milk and bananas are known to help back pain. Chiropractors are also a great help during pregnancy. Along with helping lower back pain, regular visits can help reduce overall labor time and help restore physical shape after pregnancy. Also, avoid heels higher than one inch and don’t sit or stand for long periods of time.
Current guidance (today's medical sources): Week twenty-two brings more defined features — visible eyebrows, fine hair, and developed lips. The baby's senses continue to mature. Many people notice backache as posture changes and may feel occasional Braxton Hicks (practice) contractions, which are usually irregular and painless.
Contact your healthcare provider promptly about heavy vaginal bleeding, severe or persistent abdominal pain, a high fever, severe or sudden headache, vision changes, or fainting. Seek urgent care if you are worried — these can be signs that need medical attention.
Sources: NHS — 22 weeks pregnant; Mayo Clinic — Fetal development: The 2nd trimester; MedlinePlus (NIH/NLM) — Prenatal Care. Informational only. See our sources & medical-review policy.
Frequently asked questions
How many months is 22 weeks pregnant?
Week 22 falls in the second trimester. Pregnancy is usually counted in weeks (about 40 in total) rather than months, because weeks are more precise.
What is happening to the baby at 22 weeks?
Fine hair and eyebrows are visible; the lips and eyes are more developed.
What symptoms are common at week 22?
The bump is usually obvious; backache and Braxton Hicks may start. Symptoms vary a lot from person to person; discuss anything that worries you with your healthcare provider.
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See the week-by-week guide →Informational only — not medical advice. Pregnancy Week to Week is a general educational reference. It is not a substitute for professional medical care, diagnosis, or treatment. Every pregnancy is different: always consult your doctor, midwife, or other qualified healthcare provider about your own pregnancy, and never disregard or delay professional advice because of something you read here. In an emergency, contact your maternity unit or local emergency number immediately.