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Discover what happens during week 22 of second trimester. Baby development, body changes, symptoms, and a weekly checklist.
Welcome to Week 22! Yet another stage where you must be having numerous questions about the future. This is a great time to connect with other parents-to-be or join a pregnancy support group. Remember, you are being wonderful parents and we, along with mini-you, believe in you.
Second Trimester is a time of rapid change — for both you and your baby. Every pregnancy is unique, and the information below will help you understand what's happening and how to prepare for the weeks ahead.
Your expanding uterus places increasing pressure on the ribs, abdomen, and pelvic muscles. Blood circulation and fluid retention continue rising to support both fetal growth and placental function. Your body is sustaining major physical and metabolic changes every day.
You may feel more stretching, stronger kicks, or pressure through the abdomen and ribs. Fatigue can return more easily now, especially after long or physically active days.
Your baby’s lips, eyelids, and facial features become more distinct, while fine hair called lanugo covers parts of the body. The lungs continue developing, though they are still not ready for life outside the womb. Movements are now stronger and easier to notice regularly.
Each week brings new things to prepare for. Here's what expecting parents during week 22 typically track in the BabySteps Companion app. Items are sorted by priority so you can focus on what matters most.
At this visit you will have a glucose tolerance test to check for gestational diabetes.
If considering hiring a doula, dedicate time to research and gather information about potential candidates. Finding the right doula involves due diligence to ensure they're the right fit for your birth plan.
Weigh the pros and cons of daycare vs. a nanny for your baby's care. Decide what aligns best with your family's needs and preferences.
Make a thoughtful decision about who will be your baby's guardian in case of unforeseen circumstances. Discuss and confirm this choice with the selected person.
Embark on a shopping trip to expand your maternity wardrobe. Investing in comfortable and stylish clothing accommodates your changing body and boosts your confidence.
Get reminders, mark items as done, and never miss a step.
Get week-by-week guidance tailored to your role, health & history, symptoms, and stage of pregnancy.
Every pregnancy is different, but these are some of the most common sensations women report during week 22. Your experience is valid — whether you feel all of these or none at all.
Some pregnant women experience diarrhea due to hormonal changes or dietary adjustments. It's essential to stay hydrated if you're experiencing frequent bowel movements. However, if diarrhea persists for more than a day or is accompanied by other symptoms like fever or abdominal pain, contact your healthcare provider.
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Your growing uterus puts pressure on your bladder, which can make you feel like you need to pee more often. While frequent urination is normal, it's essential to stay hydrated and empty your bladder regularly to prevent urinary tract infections. If you experience pain, burning, or other symptoms along with frequent urination, consult your healthcare provider for evaluation and treatment.
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Trouble sleeping, including difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, is common during pregnancy due to hormonal changes, physical discomfort, and anxiety. To improve sleep quality, establish a relaxing bedtime routine, create a comfortable sleep environment, and practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation. If sleep problems persist or worsen, consult your healthcare provider for evaluation and guidance on managing symptoms safely during pregnancy.
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Pelvic pain is common during pregnancy due to the stretching of ligaments and pressure on the pelvic area from the growing uterus. To relieve pelvic pain, practice good posture, use supportive pillows when resting, and engage in gentle exercises like prenatal yoga or swimming. If pelvic pain is severe or persistent, consult your healthcare provider for evaluation and guidance on managing symptoms safely during pregnancy.
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These are pink or purple streaks that can appear on your abdomen, breasts, thighs, and buttocks. They are caused by the rapid stretching of your skin to accommodate your growing baby. While they're a natural part of pregnancy, keeping the skin well-moisturized with creams or oils can help minimize their appearance. However, it's important to remember that stretch marks are normal and fade over time.
Read moreAsk BabySteps AI and get guidance based on your pregnancy stage.
Learn more about what to expect with expert-guided videos and articles curated for this stage of your pregnancy.
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