Stages of pregnancy
Pregnancy week
22 Weeks Pregnant: Baby's Senses Develop and Body Changes
At 22 weeks pregnant, your baby's senses develop rapidly. Learn about physical changes, baby growth, and helpful hints for managing pregnancy symptoms this week.
At 22 weeks pregnant, your baby's senses are developing rapidly. Your little one can now perceive light and sound from outside the womb. This is an exciting stage of pregnancy as your baby becomes more responsive to the world around them.
Your Physical Changes at 22 Weeks
- Increased appetite: Your growing baby demands more nutrition, so hunger may increase significantly.
- Swollen gums: Pregnancy hormones can cause gums to swell and bleed more easily. Maintain good dental hygiene.
- Leg cramps: These commonly occur at night and can be eased with stretching and staying hydrated.
- Nasal congestion: Increased blood flow can cause stuffiness and nosebleeds.
Your Baby's Development at 22 Weeks
- Your baby can perceive light through closed eyelids.
- The inner ear is developed enough to detect sounds - talk and sing to your baby.
- Lips and eyebrows are more defined.
- The baby's grip is getting stronger.
Baby Size at 22 Weeks
Your baby is approximately the size of a papaya, measuring around 28 cm and weighing about 430 grams.
Helpful Hints for Week 22
- Dental care: Visit your dentist and maintain regular brushing and flossing to manage swollen gums.
- Sleep position: Continue sleeping on your side with a pillow between your knees for comfort.
- Healthy snacking: Keep nutritious snacks nearby to satisfy increased appetite with wholesome options.
- Talk to your baby: Your baby can hear you now - reading and singing helps build a bond.
Kimberly-Clark India makes no warranties or representations regarding the completeness or accuracy of the information. This information should be used only as a guide and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical or other health professional advice.
FAQs on Week 22
At 22 weeks, your baby can perceive light through closed eyelids, detect sounds through developed inner ears, and has more defined lips and eyebrows. The baby's grip is getting stronger and they measure about 28 cm weighing 430 grams.
Pregnancy hormones cause gums to swell and bleed more easily. This is a common symptom. Maintain good dental hygiene with regular brushing, flossing, and visit your dentist during pregnancy for professional care.
Yes, your baby's inner ear is developed enough to detect sounds at 22 weeks. Talk and sing to your baby regularly as this helps build a bond. Reading aloud is also beneficial for early language exposure.
Leg cramps at 22 weeks commonly occur at night. Ease them with stretching exercises, staying well hydrated, and consuming calcium-rich foods. Gentle calf stretches before bed can help prevent nighttime cramps.
