22 Weeks Pregnant Symptoms: Week 22 Of Pregnancy And Prenatal Care

Updated:June 25, 2025 | Published:December 26, 2024 | ByPamela Li

22 weeks pregnant symptoms include increased frequency of micturition (urination), fatigue, lower back pain, urgency of micturition, and forgetfulness. 22 weeks pregnancy symptoms such as morning sickness (nausea and vomiting) decrease while symptoms such as fatigue, lower back pain, and forgetfulness increase.

22 weeks pregnant (5.5 months) is when your baby has developed the ability to plan and make intentional hand movements. Week 22 of pregnancy is an exciting time when an advanced level of fetal motor planning is observed, according to a 2018 Croatia study, “Cognitive Functions of the Fetus,” by Asim Kurjak and Aida Salihagic Kadic, published in Ultraschall in der Medizin-European Journal of Ultrasound. This motility development brings more frequent and stronger quickening, like kicks and flutters.

The 22-week-old baby is about the size of a spaghetti squash and weighs 476 grams (16.79 ounces or 1.05 pounds), according to the 2017 World Health Organization Fetal Growth Charts published in PLoS Medicine.

The 22-week-old fetus’ senses are advancing rapidly. It hears sounds from outside and sometimes reacts to loud noises. The lungs are forming.

The belly is noticeably larger, potentially causing backaches, heartburn, and skin changes like stretch marks or linea nigra. Symptoms include backaches, heartburn, leg cramps, and round ligament pain.

Regular checkups continue, with your OB-GYN monitoring your blood pressure and measuring your fundal height (the distance from the pubic bone to the top of the uterus).

Drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated is essential for your health and the baby’s development. Regular gentle stretching helps alleviate discomfort.

Practice kegel exercises to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles. These exercises prepare your body for labor and delivery.

What is 22 weeks pregnant in months? 22 weeks pregnant is 5 months and 2 weeks within the second trimester of pregnancy. You are in the middle of the sixth month of pregnancy.

What are the Pregnancy Symptoms during Week 22?

22 weeks pregnant symptoms include increased frequency of micturition (urination), fatigue, lower back pain, urgency of micturition, and forgetfulness. Below are thirty-eight common 22 week pregnancy symptoms, according to a 1999 study titled “Symptoms During Normal Pregnancy: A Prospective Controlled Study,” published in the Australian & New Zealand Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology.

What is the Importance of Understanding being 22 Weeks Pregnant?

The importance of being 22 weeks pregnant is to support your baby’s rapid physical and cognitive development. During pregnancy week by week, the baby’s brain and nerve endings rapidly develop, and the fetus senses touch. Some parts of your baby’s body are fully formed, and your baby is beginning to get into a pattern of sleeping and waking, which is not necessarily the same as yours.

Fetal movement, often referred to as quickening, becomes more noticeable, which helps expectant mothers monitor the pregnancy’s progress and identify potential concerns early on. It’s common for the mother to feel great during this period, often considered the “honeymoon phase” of the second trimester. You feel the top of your uterus about an inch above your belly button.

Weight gain and body changes, such as feet increasing in size during pregnancy, are expected. However, understanding these changes and the importance of prenatal care, including taking prenatal vitamins and attending regular prenatal appointments, is vital. Awareness of potential symptoms like abdominal cramps or Braxton Hicks contractions allows expecting mothers to make informed decisions about their diet, exercise, and overall well-being. This knowledge facilitates open communication with your obstetrician, ensuring any questions or concerns are addressed promptly and effectively.

Week 22 is an excellent time to start picking baby names. Recognizing the risks of premature birth during this stage is essential.

What to Expect at 22 Weeks Pregnant?

22 weeks pregnant mothers should expect more movements from their babies. You should feel regular fetal movement, often described as flutters or kicks. Your uterus is about an inch above your belly button, and your baby bump is noticeable. Expect many changes to your body as your baby bump grows, and you gain some weight. Weight gain is common. Your appetite increases as your baby requires more nutrients.  Backaches, leg cramps, and round ligament pain are typical second-trimester symptoms as your body adjusts. Skin changes, such as stretch marks and possibly acne, appear. Some women notice a dark line (linea nigra) running down their belly or changes in skin pigmentation. Increased vaginal discharge, occasional dizziness, and nasal congestion are expected.

You likely feel more like yourself after the first trimester and experience a surge in energy. Hormonal fluctuations cause mood swings, leading to emotional highs and lows. Feeling anxious about labor, delivery, and parenthood is normal.

The baby now has eyebrows, eyelashes, lips, and fingernails. They’re covered in soft, fine hair called lanugo. Baby is starting to hear, grow eyebrows, and learn to grasp with their

How is the Baby Developing at 22 Weeks Pregnant?

Your 22-week fetus rapidly grows and develops. Your little one is now about the size of a spaghetti squash.

Your baby’s muscles are getting stronger every week. Lanugo, a fine layer of hair, covers the skin, which is now less transparent. A protective coating called vernix caseosa is forming.

Major internal organs are maturing rapidly. The lungs are developing, and your little one does some breathing practice in your womb. Your baby has eyebrows now and has developed a sense of touch.

You start feeling more regular movements, known as “quickening,” and notice your baby responding to sounds or your movements with kicks and wiggles. Your uterus is about an inch above your belly button, accommodating your growing baby. If you have any concerns about your baby’s development, discuss them with your healthcare provider.

How Big is Your Baby at Week 22 of Pregnancy?

The 22-week-old baby is about the size of a spaghetti squash. The 50th percentile measurements for 22-week fetal growth are as follows: the biparietal diameter (BPD) is 53 millimeters, the head circumference (HC) is 198 millimeters, the abdominal circumference (AC) is 173millimeters, the femur length (FL) is 38 millimeters, and the humerus length (HL) is 36 millimeters. The 22-week-old fetus weighs 476 grams (16.79 ounces or 1.05 pounds), according to the 2017 World Health Organization Fetal Growth Charts published in PLoS Medicine.

What are the Key Developmental Milestones of Babies at Week 22 of Pregnancy?

Gain in fetus strength, weight, and size are babies’ developmental milestones at week 22 of pregnancy.

Here are the 9 key developmental milestones of the fetus at 22 weeks pregnant.

1. Weigh and Size: The 22-week-old baby is about the size of a spaghetti squash and weighs 476 grams (16.79 ounces or 1.05 pounds), breaking the 1-pound mark, according to the 2017 World Health Organization Fetal Growth Charts, published in PLoS Medicine.
2. Strength: The fetus’s grasp is getting stronger.
3. Lanugo: Baby’s fine hair becomes visible.
4. Vernix: A protective coating layer forms on the skin.
5. Eyelid Separation: Your baby’s eyelids are in the process of separation, which starts around week 18 and ends around week 24, according to different studies reported in a 2016 study, “Embryologic and Fetal Development of the Human Eyelid,” by Fouad, Yousef A et al., published in Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.
6. Lung Development: The lungs are developing, and your little one does some breathing practice in your womb.
7. Swallowing Amniotic Fluid: Your baby is now swallowing small amounts of the amniotic fluid.
8. Sense Touch: The sense of touch is developing.
9. Complete Formation of Some Body Parts: Some parts of your baby’s body are fully formed.

Your 22-week baby is rapidly developing and growing in the womb. While every pregnancy is unique, these milestones provide a general guide. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized information about your pregnancy and your baby’s development and health during week 22 of pregnancy.

How to Know If Your Baby Is Healthy During Week 22 of Pregnancy?

Here are 3 ways to know if your baby is healthy during week 22 of pregnancy.

1. Fetal Movement: Feeling regular fetal movement is a positive sign as it indicates well-being.
2. Fetal Heart Rate: A consistent and regular fetal heart rate, usually checked during antenatal visits, helps assess your baby’s health.
3. Amniotic Fluid Levels: Adequate amniotic fluid levels are essential. Your OB-GYN monitors these to ensure your baby has the right growth environment.

What Are The Changes In The Mother’s Body At 22 Weeks Pregnant?

Here are the common changes in the mother’s body at 22 weeks pregnant.

1. Uterus: Your uterus is now about an inch above your belly button.
2. Weight Gain: Your weight gain includes that of the fetus, uterus, amniotic sac, and placenta.
3. Baby Bump: Your bump has probably popped, making your pregnancy quite noticeable.
4. Blood Volume: Increased blood volume causes nosebleeds or nasal congestion.
5. Skin: Hormonal changes cause a dark line (linea nigra) on your belly and increased pigmentation on your face (chloasma).
6. Stretch Marks: Stretch marks become more noticeable as your skin stretches in week 22.
7. Heartburn and Indigestion: These are common due to the growing uterus pressing on your stomach.
8. Tiredness and Sleeping Problems: You experience fatigue and trouble sleeping.
9. Braxton Hicks: Mild, irregular contractions sometimes happen, causing discomfort.
10. Back Aches: The growing uterus causes backaches and leg cramps.
11. Hot Flashes: Hormonal changes lead to hot flashes.
12. Changes in Vaginal Discharge: Increased discharge is normal but must be monitored for infections.
13. Preventing Infections: Good hygiene is essential to avoid infections.
14. Baby: Your baby now has eyebrows.
15. Changing: Your body is constantly changing to accommodate your growing baby.

Consult your OB-GYN for concerns or questions about your body’s changes.

How Big is a 22 Weeks Pregnant Belly?

Your 22-week-pregnant belly is around 22 centimeters in fundal height (the distance from the pubic bone to the top of the uterus). However, your belly size at this stage depends on several factors, including whether you’re carrying multiples, body type, weight gain, number of previous pregnancies, bloating, water retention, and muscle.

Every pregnancy is unique. If you have concerns about your belly size or other pregnancy symptoms, consult your OB-GYN.

Can You Feel Contractions as Early as 22 Weeks Pregnant?

Yes, you can feel contractions as early as 22 weeks pregnant. Braxton-Hicks is a contraction that sometimes starts around the 22nd week of pregnancy. These contractions are usually irregular, infrequent, and don’t get stronger over time. These contractions feel like a tightening or squeezing sensation in your uterus and are your body’s way of preparing for labor. Braxton Hicks contractions can start as early as the second trimester and are generally normal.

However, regular, increasingly painful contractions that don’t subside with rest are sometimes a sign of premature labor. Premature labor requires immediate medical attention. Preterm labor at 22 weeks is a serious concern. Contact your OB-GYN immediately.

Does Having Piles Common at 22 Weeks Pregnant?

Yes, having piles (hemorrhoids) is common at 22 weeks pregnant. Hemorrhoids are common in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy due to increased blood volume and pressure from the growing uterus, causing the veins in the rectal area to swell and become painful. Hemorrhoids during pregnancy cause symptoms like itching and aching.

If you are concerned about hemorrhoids or any other pregnancy symptoms, speak with your OB-GYN, who will provide personalized advice and discuss treatment options.

How to Manage Piles?

To manage piles (hemorrhoids), consult your OB-GYN for a proper diagnosis and personalized advice. Maintaining a fiber-rich diet helps soften your stool, reducing strain during bowel movements. Drink plenty of water to aid digestion and stay hydrated. Regular exercise promotes overall bowel health. Ensuring your bottom is clean and dry is essential.

It’s imperative to discuss any health concerns, including piles, with your obstetrician during 22 weeks of pregnancy. Self-treating is not recommended.

What are the Tips for Prenatal Care during Week 22?

Here are 9 standard prenatal care tips and 12 complementary prenatal care tips.

Every pregnancy is unique. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and care during pregnancy.

What Types of Foods are Beneficial to Eat during Week 22 of Pregnancy?

Foods rich in minerals and vitamins are beneficial during week 22 of pregnancy. Here are 15 types of food for women 22 weeks pregnant.

1. Calcium: Essential for building strong bones and teeth.
   • Yogurt
   • Cheese
   • Dark green leafy vegetables
2. Iron: Important for making red blood cells and delivering oxygen to your baby.
   • Prune juice
   • Lean red meat
   • Iron-fortified cereals
3. Iodine: Necessary for healthy brain development.
   • Iodized table salt
   • Seafood
   • Eggs
4. Choline: Crucial for developing the baby’s brain and spinal cord.
   • Peanuts
   • Soy products
   • Eggs
5. Vitamin A: Helps form red blood cells and utilize protein, fat, and carbohydrates.
   • Carrots
   • Green leafy vegetables
   • Sweet potatoes
6. Vitamin C: Promotes healthy gums, teeth, and bones.
   • Strawberries
   • Broccoli
   • Citrus fruit
7. Vitamin D: Builds bones and teeth and supports healthy eyesight and skin.
   • Sunlight
   • Fortified milk
   • Salmon
8. Vitamin B6: Assists in forming red blood cells and processing protein, fat, and carbohydrates.
   • Bananas
   • Whole-grain cereals
   • Pork
9. Vitamin B12: Maintains the nervous system and forms red blood cells.
   • Fish
   • Poultry
   • Milk
10. Folic Acid: Prevents birth defects of the brain and spine and supports fetal growth.
    - Fortified cereal
    - Dark green leafy vegetables
    - Orange juice
11. Grains: Provide folic acid, fiber, iron, and B vitamins.
    - Oats
    - Quinoa
    - Brown rice
12. Fruits: Offer vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber.
    - Fresh fruit
    - Canned fruit
    - Frozen fruit
13. Vegetables: Source of calcium, vitamin D, and protein.
    - Raw vegetables
    - Canned vegetables
    - Frozen vegetables
14. Protein: Supplies protein, iron, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids.
    - Meat
    - Eggs
    - Beans
15. Dairy: Provides calcium, vitamin D, and protein.
    - Pasteurized milk
    - Cheese
    - Yogurt

Incorporating these 15 nutrient-rich foods into your diet helps ensure you and your baby get the necessary nutrients for a healthy pregnancy.

What Exercises Can You Do during Week 22 of Pregnancy?

Here are the 6 exercises you can perform during week 22 of pregnancy, based on the guidelines provided by the 2020 World Health Organization (WHO) Guidelines on Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour.

Aim for at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic and muscle-strengthening activities for optimal health benefits. Moderate-intensity is typically rated as a 5 or 6 on a scale of 0 to 10 relative to individual capacity.

If you are inactive, begin with small amounts and gradually increase. Avoid exercise in extreme heat or high humidity. Stay hydrated with water before, during, and after workouts. Refrain from activities involving physical contact, high fall risk, or those that limit oxygenation (e.g., high-altitude activities). Adhering to these recommendations ensures maternal health and the well-being of the developing baby.

What are the Things to Avoid at 22 Weeks Pregnant?

Here are 22 things to avoid at 22 weeks pregnant.

By avoiding these things and following your OB-GYN’s guidance, you help ensure a healthy and safe pregnancy for you and your baby at 22 weeks pregnant. Consult your obstetric care provider for personalized advice and guidance

Why should You Avoid Smoking?

You should avoid smoking when 22 weeks pregnant because tobacco use is associated with premature birth, low birth weight, breathing problems, and long-term health issues in your baby, according to a 2020 study titled “Exposure to Tobacco, Environmental Tobacco Smoke and Nicotine in Pregnancy: A Pragmatic Overview of Reviews of Maternal and Child Outcomes, Effectiveness of Interventions and Barriers and Facilitators to Quitting” by Gillian S. Gould et al., published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.

Smoking leads to disease and disability and harms nearly every organ of the mother’s body. Smoking increases your risk of developing cancer, serious heart and lung diseases, and other health issues.

What are the Possible Complications that Can Happen at 22 Weeks Pregnant?

Possible complications that can happen at 22 weeks pregnant include preterm labor, premature rupture of membranes, and preeclampsia. Here are 5 possible complications in week 22 of pregnancy.

1. Preterm Labor
   • Definition: Labor that begins before 37 weeks of pregnancy.
   • Risk Factors: Incompetent cervix, preexisting medical conditions, high blood pressure, obesity.
   • Signs: Regular contractions, back pain, vaginal discharge, pelvic pressure.
2. Premature Rupture of Membranes (PROM)
   • Definition: The amniotic sac ruptures before labor begins.
   • Risk Factors: Infections, previous PROM, smoking.
   • Signs: Gush of fluid from the vagina.
3. Preeclampsia
   • Definition: A serious condition marked by high blood pressure and protein in the urine.
   • Risk Factors: First pregnancy, obesity, preexisting medical conditions.
   • Signs: Headaches, vision changes, sudden swelling, high blood pressure.
4. Gestational Diabetes
   • Definition: High blood sugar that develops during pregnancy.
   • Risk Factors: Obesity, previous gestational diabetes, family history.
   • Signs: Often asymptomatic, detected through screening.
5. Placenta Previa
   • Definition: The placenta covers the cervix.
   • Risk Factors: Previous placenta previa, multiple pregnancies, age over 35.
   • Signs: Painless vaginal bleeding.

If you experience these symptoms or have concerns, consult your OB-GYN immediately for personalized diagnosis and instructions.

How can a Partner Support the Mother at 22 Weeks Pregnant?

A partner can support the mother at 22 weeks pregnant by attending doctor appointments, helping with household chores, and showing affection. Here are 9 Ways a Partner Can Support at 22 Weeks Pregnant.

1. Attend doctor appointments, including the anomaly scan.
2. Help with household chores and errands, taking on any physical tasks they find uncomfortable, such as lifting.
3. Hold hands and give hugs.
4. Be understanding and patient with mood swings.
5. Provide reassurance and encouragement to help her feel better.
6. Create a comfortable environment with extra pillows or relaxation aids.
7. If her OB-GYN approves, encourage and participate in light exercise, like walking or prenatal yoga.
8. Educate yourself about pregnancy to be a more informed partner.
9. Facilitate open communication to understand her needs and concerns.

What Prenatal Tests are Needed at 22 Weeks Pregnant?

Prenatal tests needed at 22 weeks pregnant include ultrasound, noninvasive prenatal testing, and alpha-fetoprotein screening. Here are 5 prenatal tests suggested around week 22 of pregnancy.

1. Ultrasound (anatomy scan): This is often done between 18 and 22 weeks to check the baby’s development and look for potential issues. The scan checks for major physical defects in the brain, spine, facial features, abdomen, heart, and limbs.
2. Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) Screening and Prenatal Genetic screenings: These are done earlier in pregnancy but is sometimes discussed or followed up at this stage.
3. Alpha-fetoprotein Screening (AFP): Part of several blood tests called multiple markers or the quad test, which screens for Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome (trisomy 18), and neural tube defects (NTDs). The quad test is typically done between 15 and 22 weeks.
4. Amniocentesis and Chorionic Villus Sampling: More invasive and diagnostic tests discussed based on earlier screening results or risk factors.
5. A Glucose Tolerance Test (GTT): This checks for gestational diabetes, usually done between 24 and 28 weeks, but doctors sometimes perform it earlier if risk factors are present.

Discuss any questions or concerns about your pregnancy and the necessity of specific tests with your OB-GYN, who will give you accurate and personalized guidance based on your situation.

When To Call For Your Doctor If You Feel Something Feels Wrong?

When you’re feeling unwell and something seems off, call your OB-GYN immediately. It’s better to be cautious and act on the safe side. Here are 14 situations and symptoms that warrant a call to your doctor.

1. Decreased Fetal Movement
2. Intense Abdominal Pain or Cramping
3. Bleeding or Fluid Leaking
4. Chest Pain
5. Shortness of Breath
6. Fever over 100.4°F (38°C)

What are the 22 weeks pregnant symptoms not to ignore?

22 weeks pregnant symptoms not to ignore include decreased fetal movement, severe pain or cramping, vaginal bleeding, fluid leakage, chest pain, shortness of breath, and fever. Always trust your instincts during pregnancy. If something feels off at week twenty-two, reach out to your OB/GYN or healthcare provider, even if you aren’t experiencing any specific symptoms that seem alarming. You are the best judge of how you feel.

Are there Prenatal Vitamins Needed to be Taken during Week 22 of Pregnancy?

Yes, 10 vitamins need to be taken during week 22 of pregnancy to promote pregnancy outcomes. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) underscores the importance of prenatal vitamins and minerals during pregnancy. ACOG, an organization of doctors specializing in obstetrics (pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care) and gynecology (women’s reproductive health), highlights their significance based on extensive studies.

1,000 milligrams of calcium is recommended for women aged 19 to 50 during week 22 of pregnancy. Calcium is essential for building strong bones and teeth and ensuring that both the mother and the developing fetus maintain healthy bone density throughout pregnancy.

Iron, at 27 milligrams, is vital for helping red blood cells deliver oxygen to the fetus. Maintaining adequate iron levels prevents anemia and supports the increased blood volume during pregnancy.

Iodine, required at 220 micrograms, is necessary for healthy brain development. It supports thyroid function, essential for the fetus’s growth and neurological development.

Choline needed at 450 milligrams, is vital for developing the fetus’s brain and spinal cord. This nutrient supports neural development and helps prevent birth defects related to the brain and spine.

Vitamin A, at 770 micrograms for individuals aged 19 to 50, is necessary for forming healthy skin and eyesight and aiding bone growth. This vitamin supports overall fetal development, particularly the development of the heart, lungs, kidneys, and other organs.

Vitamin C, recommended at 85 milligrams for ages 19 to 50, promotes healthy gums, teeth, and bones. It enhances iron absorption and supports the immune system during pregnancy.

At 600 international units, vitamin D is crucial for building the fetus’s bones and teeth. Vitamin D promotes healthy eyesight and skin, ensuring calcium absorption and bone growth.

Vitamin B6, required at 1.9 milligrams, helps form red blood cells and enables the body to use protein, fat, and carbohydrates effectively. This vitamin is essential for fetal brain development and for reducing pregnancy-related nausea.

Vitamin B12, at 2.6 micrograms, is vital for maintaining the nervous system and forming red blood cells. Adequate B12 levels support overall fetal development and help prevent certain birth defects.

Taking 400 micrograms of folic acid supplements is recommended to prevent birth defects in the brain and spine. This dosage supports the overall growth and development of the fetus and placenta.

ACOG advises taking only one serving of your prenatal supplement daily and not exceeding the recommended amounts to compensate for a deficiency. Some multivitamin ingredients, such as vitamin A, cause birth defects at higher doses.

These nutrients are typically found in a high-quality prenatal vitamin. Consult your doctor or midwife to determine the best prenatal vitamin and discuss any additional supplements you need. Maintaining a healthy diet, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein, is essential.

What does Parenting Styles Suggest about 22 Weeks Pregnant?

Parenting Styles suggests crafting your birth plan now, even though it seems early.

“Don’t wait until the last minute to prepare for your little one’s arrival. You’d be glad to have started preparing early,” says Pamela Li, writer, Founder, and Editor-in-Chief of Parenting Styles.

Here’s how to get a head start:

1. Team Up with Your Doctor: Schedule a conversation with your OB-GYN to discuss your birth plan preferences. This is an excellent opportunity to ask questions, voice your desires, and ensure you’re both on the same page on delivery day.
2. Learn More: Dive into some research. Explore parentingstyles.com and resources to better understand birthing options, pain management techniques, and newborn care.
3. Pack Your Hospital Bag: Pick a sturdy and spacious bag that holds all your essentials. Gradually add items that make your hospital stay more comfortable for you and your partner. Consider packing comfy clothes, toiletries, nursing supplies (if breastfeeding), and entertainment options.

Taking these proactive steps makes you feel more prepared and confident when your baby arrives.

Congratulations on being 22 weeks pregnant!

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