Pregnancy

Pregnancy Week 22

Baby Development

Your baby will be 11 inches long and 1 pound by this week. They can now feel light and darkness even though the eyelids are shut. Baby will make a move if you shine a light on your belly and can now hear sounds from outside through their newly developed ear. They can easily listen to your breath, belly sound, blood flow, and heartbeat. Baby is now learning to grab stuff and can grab the umbilical cord, nose, or the newly developed ear.

Changes in mother

By this week, the uterus has grown tremendously and is just an inch from your belly button. Also, you would notice that you also have bigger feet. It is due to the hormone relaxin that causes the joint to lose and causes edema or pregnancy swelling. The feet can increase so much that you might need half or full-size shoes. It is a permanent change in some cases, as the foot doesn’t shrink to its normal size. As such, buy loose shoes to wear during pregnancy.

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Pregnancy Week 22 symptoms

A few symptoms that a mother experienced this week are listed below

Cravings: You will crave food a lot during this time. It’s understandable, considering that you are eating for two. Stock up on healthy and nutrition-rich food like dry fruits, vegetables, fruits, baked wheat crackers, etc., to fulfill the craving
Constipation:- Your increased uterus causes problems with bowel movement leading to constipation. Do some light exercise regularly to regulate your bowel movement.
Dizziness:- There would be some dizziness and lightheadedness as your uterus pressurizes your blood vessels, resulting in lessened blood supply to the brain. To combat this, hydrate yourself by drinking at least eight glasses daily.
Cramps:- Leg cramps are a common symptom that some theorize occurs due to calcium or magnesium deficiency. As such, have prenatal vitamins daily.
Protruding navel:- Your navel protrudes outwards as the uterus approaches the belly button. However, it’s a temporary situation. Your navel would revert to normal after the birth of the baby.

Important Tips

What to do

Do brace for Braxton hicks contractions. This is just the uterus practicing labor. These are not dangerous or efficient enough, but they give a feel of labor.
Do some light exercises as it would
boost your muscles and baby’s brain power, and regulate your bowel movement
Learn some relaxation and meditation techniques.
You should have enough magnesium in your body as it saves you from fatigue, dizziness, and cramps and boosts the baby’s growth. Do consult with a doctor if you require supplements.

What to avoid

Avoid eating sweet stuff as it would be difficult to brush due to bleeding gums.
Avoid any strenuous activity.

When to Consult a Doctor

If you have a magnesium deficiency
FFN, or fetal fibronectin, is a protein that is essential for babies. As such, ask for an FFN screening to ensure the baby’s safety.

Takeaway

At 22 weeks, the baby would be 11 inches long and weigh a pound. The mother would have cramps, cravings, and swollen feet. Do meditate, do light exercise, and have your vitamins daily.

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