Baby moving at 22 weeks. What's new with mommy
The time has come when the expectant mother consciously carries her baby and at the same time maintains her figure. At the 22nd week of pregnancy, fetal development is in full swing - my mother’s tummy has grown noticeably, which she is especially pleased with.
The 22nd obstetric week is the 6th month of pregnancy. During this period, a significant increase in circulating blood occurs in the body of the expectant mother. In this regard, the blood supply to the organs of the woman, child and placenta improves.
Hormonal levels continue to change. This, together with a lack of microelements, leads to bleeding gums. At week 22, hemoglobin in the blood of the expectant mother may be reduced, which sometimes causes dizziness and weakness.
Uterus
At 22 weeks of pregnancy, the uterus has also grown and is now located 2–3 cm above the navel. A large accumulation of water in the body often leads to edema. In this case, the doctor will tell you what to do.
Fetus at 22 weeks gestation
The baby’s development enters a new phase, the formation of systems and organs is completed. Undoubtedly, the baby still has a long time to reach full maturity, but the body is already functioning normally. But when giving birth at this time, the situation can be tragic, because the baby is not yet ready for independent life. At week 22, the fetal size is 28-29 cm.
His brain continues to form and weighs about 100 g. Convolutions appear. The spine completes its development: bone structures deposit calcium, vertebrae and intervertebral discs form. Therefore, at 22 weeks of pregnancy, fetal development requires the mother to pay close attention to the amount of calcium she consumes.
The baby’s heart has become even larger, and now dad can hear its beat, pressing against his wife’s tummy.
Now the baby’s nails and hairs, eyelashes and eyebrows are growing. The hairs are still transparent, but they can already be seen on an ultrasound. The baby's nervous system continues to improve, and now his movements are fully conscious.
The baby is increasingly playing with the umbilical cord, leg or other hand. If the mother places her palm on her stomach, the baby will move closer to her. And, on the contrary, in bright light the baby will try to hide.
Fetal movements at 22 weeks of pregnancy
The baby continues to actively push, because there is still a lot of space in the mother’s belly. A woman may feel fetal movements at 22 weeks of pregnancy at night. If the baby lacks oxygen, he begins to move more actively. Also, if the expectant mother is stressed, the baby may hide for a while and not bother the woman with her movements.
Stomach
The belly at the 22nd week of pregnancy continues to grow, but its increase does not yet cause significant discomfort to the expectant mother. It is advisable at this time to purchase clothes for a pregnant woman, in particular, underwear, pants, and loose blouses.
In no case should things put pressure on the stomach, pelvis, chest, or interfere with bending, sitting, or doing other work. At week 22, it is important to pay attention to caring for the skin of the abdomen. Rapid growth leads to itchy skin, stretching of tissues and the appearance of stretch marks, which are difficult to get rid of after childbirth. For prevention, you should moisturize your skin daily.
Weight
During the 22nd week of pregnancy, weight increases, and the belly of the expectant mother grows rapidly. Normally, at each visit to a specialist, a woman adds 300-500 g.
Feel
The woman is still quite active: getting carried away by a certain activity, she can forget about her position. Now the expectant mother is easy to climb due to increased blood flow.
Feelings of nausea or vomiting at 22 weeks of pregnancy indicate the onset of late toxicosis. There is nothing wrong with this, but if there is constant vomiting, the expectant mother should tell a specialist about the problem.
At 22 weeks of pregnancy, not every woman feels movements: sometimes the expectant mother can feel her baby for the first time at 24 weeks. However, it is better to discuss this issue with a gynecologist: if a specialist listens to the baby’s heartbeat, then there is no need to worry.
The expectant mother's breasts are still swollen, colostrum is secreted from it: the baby will feed on it for the first days after birth.
Pain
A growing belly causes a shift in the center of gravity, as well as pain in the back and lower back. Normally, pain at 22 weeks of pregnancy is mild, but if it causes significant discomfort or is accompanied by pain in the lower abdomen, you should consult a specialist. The cause of severe pain is the tone of the uterus, pyelonephritis, urolithiasis, cystitis or other diseases of the genitourinary system.
Abdominal pain may be associated with poor digestion. If it is cramping, then the threat of miscarriage should be excluded.
Now the expectant mother is less and less afraid of problems and is becoming more convinced that the baby will be born on time. However, she needs to keep a few guidelines in mind.
Nutrition
Nutrition at 22 weeks of pregnancy should be light, otherwise the woman will experience heartburn and many other unpleasant moments. You need to eat little and often, eating as many healthy foods as possible. You should still eat cereals, vegetables and fruits (preferably raw). It is obligatory to eat fish, legumes, and lean meat.
No matter how much a woman would like to eat sweets, she should refrain from them: chocolate and sweets quickly lead to extra pounds, which can harm delivery.
Vitamins
At 22 weeks, a woman may experience bleeding gums. In this regard, she needs to purchase a vitamin-mineral complex, having received the approval of a specialist in advance.
The doctor will prescribe additional vitamins if the expectant mother’s body requires it.
Sex
Many expectant mothers experience a blossoming of their intimate life: they are so captivated by new sensations that the future dad may worry about the condition of the baby.
However, some women experience late toxicosis at this stage, so their intimate life will not be entirely joyful. If you are carrying twins or have certain problems during pregnancy, the specialist will recommend abstaining from sex at 22 weeks of pregnancy.
Physical activity
Now the expectant mother should not engage in dangerous sports or running. Special exercises for pregnant women recommended by a specialist are sufficient.
Slow daily walks are useful, the time of which depends on the woman’s condition. If the expectant mother has been swimming, she can continue after consultation with a specialist. If you have uterine tone, your doctor will recommend that you avoid visiting the pool.
Medicines and medical procedures
As before, the expectant mother should be wary of taking medications. In this matter, she must rely on her gynecologist.
For acute respiratory viral infections at the 22nd obstetric week of pregnancy, a specialist will recommend medications appropriate to the severity of the disease. For mild colds, treatment with homeopathy and herbal remedies is possible.
Possible problems at week 22: frozen pregnancy, oligohydramnios, uterine hypertonicity
During this period, the expectant mother is still faced with unpleasant moments. The most dangerous of them is a frozen pregnancy at 22 weeks. If a woman does not feel any movements, then this is not yet a reason to think about the bad. However, if the doctor does not listen to the baby’s heart, then the expectant mother will need to undergo an ultrasound.
It will determine exactly what condition the baby is in at 22 weeks of pregnancy. But you can’t immediately tune in to the bad; sometimes the gynecologist cannot listen to the heartbeat because the baby, for example, has turned away.
If there is bleeding, you cannot waste a minute: you must call an ambulance as soon as possible, otherwise the consequences may be irreversible.
Often, at the 22nd week of pregnancy, oligohydramnios is diagnosed in expectant mothers. The doctor’s recommendations in this case will depend on the overall picture of the course of pregnancy. In some cases, hospitalization is necessary, and sometimes the expectant mother is prescribed medications.
Another problem at this stage of pregnancy is uterine hypertonicity. When it appears, the expectant mother’s belly becomes hard. This condition is dangerous: it can lead to premature birth. To prevent this from happening, the specialist will recommend taking Magnesium B6 and other medications or suggest hospitalization.
Discharge
A woman should pay attention to the color of the discharge. If they have a brown, red or green tint, then do not hesitate: a specialist will decide what to do in this situation.
Normally, discharge at 22 weeks of pregnancy is transparent, white or yellowish. A woman should not be afraid if their volume has increased: this is quite natural for such a period.
Ultrasound and tests at 22 weeks of pregnancy
Now the doctor asks to attend a consultation every two weeks, and before each visit the woman needs to take a urine sample. As before, the specialist measures the expectant mother’s blood pressure, takes measurements of the abdomen, and listens to the baby’s heartbeat with a stethoscope.
What should the baby be like now? Ultrasound standards at 22 weeks of pregnancy are as follows:
- BPR – 48-60 mm;
- LZ – 64-76mm;
- Exhaust gas – 178-212 mm;
- Coolant – 148-190 mm.
Features of IVF pregnancy
The specialist prescribes an ultrasound at 22–23 weeks of IVF pregnancy to assess the fetoplacental complex. You also need to undergo some tests to rule out health problems in your baby.
Otherwise, pregnancy proceeds as usual, and very soon the threat of miscarriage will become much less.
Multiple pregnancy
Now the expectant mother’s belly is larger than when carrying one baby, although the size of each fetus at 22 weeks of pregnancy is smaller. The woman begins to get tired quickly and suffers from frequent back pain.
The babies actively move in mom’s tummy, which sometimes causes her discomfort. Otherwise, pregnancy with twins at 22 weeks proceeds without any special features.
Video of the twenty-second week of pregnancy
One of the calm and cloudless periods when expecting a baby is the second trimester, and therefore the 22nd week of pregnancy. Toxicosis has long since receded, so the woman’s condition should be good. The tummy continues to grow, but its size is not yet large enough to affect the well-being and sleep of the expectant mother. She constantly feels the baby and enjoys moments of happiness and serenity.
Outwardly, the baby is already fully formed. He looks like a miniature skinny newborn baby.
What does the baby look like?
The body weight of the fetus ranges from 420-470 grams, and the height is 27.5-29 cm - the baby reached these physical parameters at 22 weeks of pregnancy. What is happening to him at this time? This issue is of great concern to women in delicate situations. The fruit has acquired a nice appearance. Of course, his head is large relative to his body, and his skin is covered with wrinkles due to the small amount of fat deposits. But the process of formation of subcutaneous fat continues, and very soon the skin will become smooth and pink. You can still see the vein network through the skin. The delicate fluff on the baby’s body, covered with original creamy lubricant, is becoming more and more noticeable. It performs a protective function - it protects the baby’s sensitive skin from abrasions and exposure to the aquatic environment.
The baby's mouth and nose already have fairly clear outlines. The ears have acquired their final appearance. The eyes are already well formed, but the iris still lacks pigmentation. The fetus periodically moves its eyelids. Above the eyes you can distinguish a strip of eyebrows and notice the first eyelashes - this is what the fetus looks like when a woman is diagnosed at 22 weeks of pregnancy. A photo of the fetus taken with modern ultrasound devices shows that the baby's hairs, eyebrows and eyelashes have no color. At this stage, there is still not enough melanin in his body - this is the reason. However, the following observations by scientists are interesting: in babies of dark-skinned races, the hairs are already colored and quite noticeable.
Advances in the fetus
The baby’s brain has almost completed its formation and has a full set of necessary cells - this is how scientists characterize a baby at 22 weeks of pregnancy. The size of the fetus is not yet large enough, so the baby is not yet cramped: he is constantly fidgeting, studying his body parts (tummy, fingers, arms, legs, torso), touching the umbilical cord, meaningfully bending and unbending his limbs. Fetal reflexes become significantly more complex and improved. Now he doesn’t senselessly suck any finger, but chooses what to do at a certain moment: bow his head to the finger of interest or, conversely, bring it to his mouth.
The week in question is characterized by the following processes in the baby’s body: intensive improvement of the sweat glands, an increase in the heart muscle, and continued development of the pancreas, which controls the production of hormones. By this time, the fetus already has the full necessary set of intervertebral discs and vertebrae, and the formation of its spine is almost complete. The embryos of baby teeth have already appeared in the baby’s gums. A year will pass and he will be able to smile at mommy and show off their whiteness.
Throughout the entire period of intrauterine life, the organs of the fetus adapt to perform certain functions, and a child at 22 weeks of pregnancy is no exception. For example, a baby’s liver has a slightly different functionality than that of its mother. In the fetus, toxic indirect bilirubin (a product of the breakdown of hemoglobin) is formed to a greater extent than in an adult. Therefore, the task of the liver in intrauterine life is to intensively convert bilirubin, which is indirectly harmful to the body, into a safe direct analogue.
Ultrasound
According to Russian medical standards, when the 22nd week of pregnancy occurs, a woman must visit a screening specialist and undergo a second scheduled ultrasound. This time is suitable for diagnostics aimed at identifying many pathologies in the development and formation of the fetus. During the examination, the doctor will examine the baby’s skeleton from the point of view of its correct formation, and will also evaluate it in accordance with the size standards for individual parts of the body. During the procedure, the specialist pays attention to the functioning of the internal organs and their structure. It is mandatory to assess the amount and transparency of amniotic fluid in order to identify problems such as oligohydramnios or polyhydramnios. During the examination, the doctor will determine the condition of the umbilical cord and the degree of aging of the placenta.
The most exciting moment for many mothers: if in the past planned ultrasound to accurately determine the sex, only a very good angle of the baby was needed, then at this stage the baby’s genitals are almost always visible, so the specialist will tell you who will soon be born.
Sizes and photos of the tummy
The growing uterus does not yet bother the woman very much when the 22nd week of pregnancy arrives. Photos of the belly, which joyful mothers post on various resources, show that it is clearly visible, but is not yet large enough.
The fundus of the uterus is determined by palpation in a lying position 2-4 cm above the navel. The size and shape of the tummy depend on the woman’s build, the tone of the muscles of her abdominal wall and the position of the fetus. In plump ladies, the tummy is not as noticeable as in thin ones. A woman who is nulliparous or leads a sports lifestyle has relatively strong muscles in the abdominal area, so her pregnancy is outwardly noticeable later.
Let's figure out the timing
According to medical standards, the obstetric month differs from the calendar month. Therefore, the entire period of waiting for a child is divided into trimesters, months and weeks. The listed terms are used in medical records and literature. Therefore, some mothers want to figure out the following: 22 weeks of pregnancy - how many months is it? An obstetric month includes four weeks. This means that the age of the fetus at this stage is 5 months. Pregnancy has entered the second trimester; at 22 weeks it corresponds to five and a half obstetric months.
What's new with mommy?
Hair becomes thicker and acquires a beautiful shine - this is good news for the 22nd week of pregnancy. What happens to them, why does the hair improve? The fact is that the expectant mother practically does not lose hair. This will continue until childbirth. After the baby is born, they will fall out faster.
Your nails may also change this week. Now they are growing much faster. In some women, in a delicate position, the nail plate becomes stronger, in others it becomes softer.
The amount of melanin increases daily, so a line connecting the navel and pubic bone may appear, or it may darken in cases where the strip appeared earlier than this week.
Mommy’s breasts also change: the areolas and nipples become darker and larger in size.
High levels of estrogen can cause spider veins to form in the chest, neck and face - a bizarre phenomenon that 22 weeks of pregnancy can bring.
Photos of the belly in photographs of mothers make it clear that an interesting position can no longer be hidden. For some, the tummy grows very quickly, so microscopic tears appear on the skin - stretch marks. They occur in approximately half of expectant mothers. However, for many of them, the appearance of stretch marks is associated not only with an increase in breasts and abdomen, but also with hormonal changes and individual characteristics of the body. After the baby is born, the stripes on the skin will become paler over time.
Movements
One of the most thrilling moments of pregnancy is the feeling of the baby's movements. Its vital functions are already well felt by the expectant mother at 22 weeks of pregnancy. The movements of babies are different. Their character depends on individual characteristics and temperament. At this stage, the fetus is still small in relation to the volume of space in the uterus. He can move along it in different directions. The expectant mother feels delicate tremors in all areas of the tummy - in most cases, this is how women at 22 weeks of pregnancy describe their sensations. The movements help them determine when their son or daughter is in the period of sleep and wakefulness.
You need to listen to the baby's movements, as they indicate that everything is fine with him. If mommy is worried that the baby is quiet, then she needs to have a snack, relax and take a comfortable position. The supply of nutrients activates the baby’s movements. There are times when the activity of the baby at 22 weeks of pregnancy is not felt for a whole day or even a day. The size of the fetus is not large enough, so it cannot be said that it is not active - there is simply too much space for it in the uterus. The disappearance of the baby's movements for more than a day should alert the mother. You should go for a consultation with a specialist. This may be a sign of serious disorders, such as fetal hypoxia.
Problems
The increase in the volume of a pregnant woman's blood plasma continues, and this week may be the beginning of physiological anemia, accompanied by low hematocrit and hemoglobin levels. To prevent and correct this condition, it is necessary to fill the diet with foods rich in iron.
Back pain is a common complaint of expectant mothers. They occur due to improper sitting and delicate posture. At 22 weeks of pregnancy, the belly grows and doubles the load on the spine, so when sitting you need to use a comfortable chair with back support and do not put your legs on top of each other, but raise them on a stand. Every hour, the sitting position should be replaced by rest, stretching exercises, warm-up or a short walk.
Swelling and enlargement of the legs by a size or more - these problems often accompany the expectant mother. Comfortable shoes made from natural materials and without heels are a must to prevent and reduce swelling.
Stomach ache
Occasionally, the expectant mother may feel contractions without pain. The onset of this phenomenon can be either the 22nd week of pregnancy or a later date. These sensations are called Breston-Higgins contractions. This kind of rehearsal for real childbirth is not dangerous.
However, a woman should be vigilant. The number of contractions should not exceed 10-15 times per day. Frequent uterine contractions, accompanied by pain, require urgent hospitalization, as they may be a symptom of the onset of premature labor.
Discharge
The nature of the discharge at this stage: light, light, in some cases with a barely noticeable sour odor. Their curd-like consistency, the presence of mucus, and yellowish-greenish tints are usually symptoms of infectious diseases and require immediate treatment.
The appearance of brownish, reddish or pinkish discharge this week is an alarming sign, symbolizing premature birth, placental abruption, marginal or central presentation of the fetus. Such conditions threaten the health of both the expectant mother and her baby, and therefore require emergency hospitalization.
Weight
Usually at this stage a woman feels great, so she has an excellent appetite. Sometimes, of course, you can afford something tasty, but constant consumption of high-calorie foods is undesirable. Normally, the 22nd week of pregnancy should add about 200-250 g to the mother’s weight. By the time of birth, the total increase in body weight ideally does not exceed 10-15 kg. By the end of the week in question, a woman should add no more than 7-8 kg to her pre-pregnancy weight. Starting from this period, you should strictly monitor your body weight, since excess weight at the beginning of labor is undesirable, and it will be more difficult for a woman to get back in shape after the baby is born.
Nutrition
For proper weight gain, it is important to develop a diet in which unhealthy and high-calorie foods need to be replaced with healthy, but no less tasty. Healthy foods of natural origin should prevail in the diet. The fetus at the 22nd week of pregnancy, as at any stage of its development, is in great need of proteins, so the diet must include lean meats. Milk and fermented milk products (cottage cheese, yogurt, cheese, fermented baked milk, kefir) will replenish a woman’s body with calcium, which is intensively spent on the formation and growth of the baby’s bones.
Fresh and boiled vegetables, dried fruits and fruits will not only provide mommy and her baby with the necessary vitamins and minerals, but also activate the peristalsis of the female intestines, and will also prevent such common pregnancy problems as constipation and hemorrhoids. Buckwheat porridge, red meats, pomegranate and dried fruits will be a preventive measure to prevent anemia.
But various sweets (sweets, baked goods, sugar) are a source of not only quickly digestible excess carbohydrates, but also of health problems. They can cause a sharp increase in glucose levels in a woman’s body, leading to diabetes. Eating salty and smoked foods slows down the removal of fluid from the body of the expectant mother, which can cause swelling and problems in the urinary system.
Vitamin and mineral complexes will help replenish the body with the necessary elements. They are especially relevant in the spring-winter season. Any drug should be prescribed only by the treating gynecologist, based on test results.
The 22nd week of pregnancy arrives. The movements in the lower abdomen finally stand out against the background of other processes occurring in the body. Now they can no longer be confused with a banal rumbling or bloating. You and your baby have already passed half the development path, and the most difficult and important part of it. This period of pregnancy is characterized by an increasing need for iron. And the most important and interesting thing is what happens to your precious baby, how he grows and develops.
Week 22 - how many months?
The 22nd week of pregnancy continues. Movements in the lower abdomen become not only obvious, the baby is already trying to play with you, and you can guess the time of activity and rest. This is the calmest and most cloudless period of the entire pregnancy, the baby is not too big yet, and the mother feels at ease, there is an opportunity to lead a full, active life. But at the same time, regular movements let you know that life is developing inside you. It's the second week of the sixth month of pregnancy - not much time remains before maternity leave.
The belly has already increased significantly, now the mother needs to buy special clothes in which she will be comfortable. But at the same time, the tummy is not yet so big that it interferes with tying shoelaces or leading a normal lifestyle. It's time to think about special products for moisturizing the skin, since constant tension can lead to the appearance of tears.
The fetus during this period
The doctor wrote on the card that the 22nd week of pregnancy had begun. Movements in the lower abdomen at this stage are one of the factors indicating the correct development of the child. If you have not yet felt the slightest movement of the baby, the doctor will definitely prescribe an additional examination to assess the condition of the fetus. The phase of active growth of the baby and his preparation for life outside the mother’s tummy begins.
The appearance of your baby will also change. His hair begins to grow, his eyebrows are clearly visible. The hair is still colorless, since melanin has not had time to appear. The baby begins to actively explore the world around him and himself. He bends his legs and arms and moves them. This is exactly what a mother feels at 22 weeks of pregnancy. Movements in the lower abdomen are nothing more than a manifestation of this activity. Now the baby can already suck his finger, and the development of the brain allows him to make a choice: tilt his head or raise his finger to his mouth. The baby's vision and vision are actively developing - this will allow him to explore the world after birth.
Fetal ultrasound
The second scheduled ultrasound marks the 22nd week of pregnancy. Movements in the lower abdomen provide the doctor with information to adjust the due date, and the examination will allow you to calculate the expected date of birth as accurately as possible. In addition, the ultrasound specialist examines the fetus for possible To complete the conclusion, the doctor determines the parameters of the baby’s body and the ratio of its parts. This examination usually marks the 22nd week of pregnancy. The photo of your ultrasound can be framed until the first photo of the newborn appears.
Fruit size
Your child is still very young, but every day he will change and grow. This is the 22nd week of pregnancy, photos of the fetus show a real little man with somewhat angular shapes. Its height from the crown to the tailbone is about 16 cm, and to the heels - about 25 cm. That is, inside you there is a creature the size of a large banana. Only from this moment can the child’s growth be fully assessed; before this, small bent legs were not taken into account. The weight of your baby is approximately 300 g. Despite its miniature size, all the most important organs and systems are already formed and are able to function fully. True, he has practically no chance of surviving birth at the moment.
The heartbeat can now be easily heard using a regular tube through the anterior abdominal wall of the pregnant woman. The first stage is completed - the formation of the lungs, now the baby begins to take the first episodic breaths. This moment characterizes the 22nd week of pregnancy. An ultrasound photo can capture the moment when the baby inhales and swallows. This is an excellent workout for the intestines, which are already starting to work. The result will be raw stool called meconium. This is a black, viscous mass that will begin to be released from the intestines in the first days after birth.
Fetal development
If you're 22 weeks pregnant, your baby's size has already reached its first major stage. The brain is almost completely formed, its intensive growth is slowing down, now it reaches a weight of about 100 g. The brain contains a full set of cells, now it’s time to improve reflexes. The endocrine glands actively begin to develop, sweat glands are activated, the size of the heart increases, and calcium deposition continues. Surprisingly, there is another indicator that characterizes the 22nd week of pregnancy. The size of the fetus is still quite small, but the spine is already fully formed.
Woman at 22 weeks
You have already had an ultrasound. Based on the results, the doctor confirmed that she was 22 weeks pregnant. The development of the fetus is all that mothers care about today. But it is equally important to know what is happening to your own body. Now you've reached the halfway point. This is a significant milestone; then time will fly even faster, bringing the due date closer every day. Now the top of the uterus is located at the level of the navel, and gradually it will rise even higher. Making sure you're getting enough iron is now a real must. This is required by a growing baby, the placenta and a constant increase in the amount of blood. Surely your gynecologist will prescribe it for you as soon as you reach the 22nd week of pregnancy. The development of the fetus occurs by leaps and bounds. Now there are increased demands on women's nutrition. We will talk about this a little later, but for now we will continue to discuss the feelings of the expectant mother.
Changes at 22 weeks
By this time, every woman has accumulated many questions, almost all of them are related to the development of the baby and the upcoming birth. Therefore, it is worth enrolling in a maternity course as soon as your pregnancy reaches 22 weeks. The photo of the fetus still shows the blurry outlines of the little man, but very soon he will grow up, so it’s worth preparing in advance. You have about 14 more weeks to fully prepare for childbirth.
In the meantime, it is becoming increasingly difficult to sleep. This is quite understandable from a physiological point of view. The first difference is that you started snoring. This is due to hormones that cause the nasopharynx to swell. There can only be one way out - sleep on your side or half-sitting. Another disorder is also observed: as soon as a woman lies down, the attack of heartburn intensifies. The solution is again the same - put more pillows under your head.
Cramps are another unpleasant symptom that appears when pregnancy is 22 weeks. A photo of the fetus is the only thing that can bring moral relief. After all, you are not suffering in vain. The cause of cramps is usually trivial - a protest of the muscles against the excess weight that one has to carry. Try rubbing your feet with special balms at night, taking warm baths, taking different positions, placing pillows under your feet. You will have to experiment until the end of the term, because for now you are only 22 weeks pregnant. The size of the fetus will only increase, causing increasing physical discomfort, but also the joy of approaching a miracle.
Feelings during this period
The most interesting period is the 22nd week of pregnancy. Now you can judge what is happening to the baby not only by the results of an examination by a doctor. From now on, you constantly feel his movements; he not only warms up by pushing his mother, but also sends her certain signals. So, for example, a child’s activity may mean a requirement to turn down the loud music. But there are also more alarming signs. Too frequent and sudden movements of the baby can mean a lack of oxygen, and the absence of movement for more than a day is an ominous symptom. This opens the period of communication with the baby at the 22nd week of pregnancy. You can now feel what is happening with your child like never before, because he responds to your touch and invitation to interact.
If you have reached this period, then most often this indicates that the pregnancy is developing normally. Week 22 is the time when mothers need to pay close attention to their own health, especially the genitourinary system. Pregnancy most often provokes an exacerbation of diseases such as cystitis and pyelonephritis. This can have very serious consequences, so it is necessary to undergo regular examinations and take urine samples. Alarming symptoms include severe swelling, excruciating thirst and little urination.
Analyzes
The doctor will definitely send you for examination to assess the development of pregnancy (week 22). As usual, you will need to donate blood, from which doctors will determine your sugar level, the number of leukocytes and red blood cells. The second ruler will be urine. A particularly alarming symptom is the presence of protein in it; this can lead to gestosis, a dangerous complication. To prevent it, the doctor regularly weighs you, measures your abdominal circumference, and checks for edema.
Discharge
Normally, they do not change throughout pregnancy. This is still the same moderate light discharge with a sour smell. If they suddenly change their color and smell, become greenish and bubbly or yellow, this is a reason to immediately consult a doctor. It is especially important not to delay medical help if there is blood in the discharge. A timely visit to the doctor will prevent the situation from worsening.
Sex at 22 weeks
The 22nd week of pregnancy is not a reason for a lack of intimate life. When the parents are close, the movements of the fetus usually subside; it seems to freeze so as not to interfere with mom and dad being alone. Perhaps he is calmed by the rhythmic movements and hormones produced by the mother at this moment. But poses that promote strong compression of the abdomen are not recommended. Don't forget that there are now three of you.
Women's nutrition
The 22nd week of pregnancy imposes special restrictions on the diet. How many months will it take before you can afford unhealthy but delicious foods! After all, there is still a long period of breastfeeding ahead. But motherhood is worth it, so you have to be patient. Now you need to monitor your weight, which means your food should be extremely healthy and natural. Try to minimize white bread and pastries, sweets, smoked foods and semi-finished products in your diet. You need protein, so you can eat lean meat and fish, dairy products, as well as vegetables and fruits in unlimited quantities. Proper nutrition is the key to the normal development of a child. Have an easy birth!
Since one obstetric month is equal to four weeks, then the 22nd week of pregnancy is exactly five and a half obstetric months. The age of the fetus from the moment of conception is exactly 20 weeks.
At this stage, many expectant mothers compare how many kilograms they managed to gain.
Normally, by this time, weight gain can range from 4 to 7 kilograms. In the future, the woman will continue to gain weight by about half a kilo per week.
A little more than halfway has already been passed. As a rule, at 22 weeks a strong emotional connection is already established between the baby and his mother. The child already knows a lot, and his body gets stronger every day and adapts more and more to existence outside the womb.
For a woman, a wonderful period of well-being continues, when there are no longer any signs of toxicosis, possible threats of miscarriage are left behind, and the tummy is not yet so large as to cause significant inconvenience.
We can say that the 22nd week of pregnancy is the time to enjoy life and your amazing position.
What happens at 22 weeks
The fetus has been actively developing in the mother’s tummy for four lunar months. However, his growth in length is somewhat slowed down, but he is actively gaining weight.
As for movements, they are felt more and more often, but many mothers note that the baby’s movements are no longer chaotic and erratic. Read about why you need to monitor your baby's movements.
Gradually, the baby learns to explore the world with the help of touches. Now he can not only bring his palm to his face, but also tilt his head towards his hands. He also learned to iron own arms and legs.
The volume of blood in the body of the expectant mother continues to increase. Moreover, the level of plasma (the liquid component of blood) and leukocytes and red blood cells does not increase evenly. At week 22, the content of red blood cells in the blood is considered to be the minimum for the entire period of pregnancy.
A lack of red blood cells, and with them hemoglobin, can lead to anemia. To prevent this, a pregnant woman must ensure that the body receives sufficient iron. Read more about the dangers of anemia during pregnancy.
By the end of the 22nd week, the fetal growth is about 28 cm, and the weight is more than 400 g.
How a woman feels at 22 weeks
The second trimester of pregnancy is considered to be the most prosperous and calm time, when a pregnant woman likes her current position and sensations.
At week 22, the expectant mother gradually gets used to her changed body; she likes it no less than her figure before pregnancy.
Toxicosis with its unpleasant manifestations is far behind us, however, in some cases, some negative symptoms may still be present.
Of course, not all women have a completely cloudless and serene pregnancy. The overall happy picture can be slightly overshadowed by various pains, discomfort and other symptoms that are so often found in women expecting a child.
Possible physical sensations
At week 22, all physical sensations are extremely individual and depend on the state of health, age and other characteristics of each individual woman. In the body of the expectant mother, natural processes related to hormonal changes and preparation for the birth of the baby continue to occur.
- Fetal movements. The frequency and intensity of fetal movements largely depends on the child’s activity, as well as the mother’s physique. By the 22nd week of pregnancy, most women experience periodic tremors who are becoming increasingly confident. Some expectant mothers, especially during their first pregnancy, worry that the baby is not moving much. Most likely, this is not the case, the woman just doesn’t feel his movements yet. If their absence makes the mother very worried, it is better to consult a doctor who can calm her down and assess the motor activity of the fetus. You should also know that too active kicks may signal that the baby does not feel comfortable in the womb; Read more about the need to monitor your child's movements.
- Weight. The average weight gain for a woman since the beginning of pregnancy is usually about 7-8 kilograms. You still need to carefully monitor your weight during this period, despite the increased appetite; Read about how to avoid gaining excess weight during pregnancy.
- Uterus. If previously the uterus of a pregnant woman was shaped like a ball, now it looks more like a chicken egg. At the same time, its bottom becomes denser, and the side walls become thinner, due to the fact that the organ seems to stretch in length. Now the uterus has risen about 2 centimeters above the navel and 22 centimeters above the pubis;
Stomach. As the uterus grows, the abdomen grows, in which the unborn baby develops and prepares for birth. The size of the abdomen by this time is always individual: for some it has just become visible and rounded, while for others it already looks quite large and has begun to cause slight discomfort when bending over or during night sleep; Read about the volume and shape of the abdomen- Navel. In some women, at about 22 weeks of pregnancy, the navel already begins to protrude, although most often this phenomenon is observed in later stages;
- Breast. The mammary glands remain enlarged, and colostrum is periodically released from the nipples in the form of a whitish or clear sticky liquid. This phenomenon is considered absolutely normal and indicates that the breast is preparing to perform its direct function - feeding. Nipple halos darken and increase in area;
- Stretch marks on the skin very often become a pregnancy companion. In most cases, they appear on the skin of the abdomen, sometimes they can be seen on the chest and thighs, because these parts of the body increase during pregnancy, which means the skin stretches. Depending on the natural color of the skin, they can be white, pink, purple or brown. However, even if they appear on the body, mothers should not be upset, since in most cases this unpleasant phenomenon disappears within a few months after childbirth; Read a review of the most popular creams for stretch marks
- Stomach ache. At week 22, mild nagging pain can be considered quite normal, which in fact is. Normally, the number of such contractions per day should not exceed 15 times, and they are not accompanied by severe pain, but only a slightly aching sensation. If frequent contractions of the uterus are observed, accompanied by severe pain, it is necessary to call a doctor, since there may be talk of the onset of premature labor;
Pain and swelling of the legs. Due to the increase in body weight of a pregnant woman, the load on her legs increases significantly, which means that in the evenings they ache, hurt and swell greatly. To prevent these symptoms from being so painful, women are advised to give up high-heeled shoes during pregnancy in favor of comfortable flat soles, rest as often as possible, but do not forget about measured physical activity;- Lower back pain. Many expectant mothers note that from about 22 weeks, pain in the back and lower back begins to significantly complicate their lives. The reasons for the occurrence of these unpleasant sensations can be very diverse, but they are all associated with changes occurring in the body of a pregnant woman. In particular, this symptom can be explained by the fact that due to an enlarged abdomen, the center of gravity shifts somewhat, which means that the spine takes on most of the load. Ways to relieve pain will be discussed in detail below;
- Haemorrhoids. Very often, in the second trimester of pregnancy, swelling of the blood vessels in the anus occurs - this is hemorrhoids, which spoils the lives of many women before or after childbirth. It occurs due to increased blood flow in the pelvic area caused by the large weight of the uterus. At week 22, only the first signs of hemorrhoids usually appear, which worsen towards the end of pregnancy; Read more about hemorrhoids during pregnancy
- Vaginal discharge. Normal discharge from the genital tract at 22 weeks of pregnancy should not differ from any other period; it remains moderate, grayish with a slightly sour odor. Urgent consultation with a doctor requires the appearance of yellow, greenish, flaky, curdled or any other pathological leucorrhoea, which are most often symptoms. Medical supervision is also required for bloody or excessively watery discharge. Read more about the nature of discharge during pregnancy.
It should be repeated once again that Every female body is unique, which means that someone may experience the symptoms described above, and someone may even experience most of them. In addition, the following things can happen to the body of a pregnant woman at week 22:
in some cases, bleeding gums may occur;
at the same time, some women experience nasal congestion;
possible dizziness and sudden attacks of weakness;
heartburn is also a frequent companion of a pregnant woman in the second trimester;
the appearance of unwanted hair on the face and other places can be caused by an increase in the level of androgens in the body;
improvement or, conversely, deterioration of skin condition. So, for some women, the skin smoothes out and acquires a healthy tone, while for others it may become excessively dry or oily. It is also possible that pigmentation may occur, which goes away a few months after birth.
Possible emotional experiences
As for the emotional state of a woman who is 22 weeks pregnant, we can say with confidence that this
the time of her heyday and sexuality.
This is not surprising, because it is during this period that libido is particularly enhanced, which means that the likelihood of achieving orgasm during sexual intercourse increases.
However, in this regard, many mothers begin to worry whether it is harmful to have sex during pregnancy. The answer is no, especially if a woman wants it, because this process is associated with positive emotions, which one should not deny oneself.
Another symptom that often accompanies expectant mothers in the second trimester is forgetfulness. Witty people have nicknamed this phenomenon “brain pregnancy,” although it is absolutely normal. As for the causes of forgetfulness, scientists have not yet found an exact explanation for this phenomenon, but many of them are inclined to believe that all this is connected with hormonal changes in the body.
In addition, pregnant women may suffer from insomnia, which is partly caused by violent emotions and experiences, and partly by the stomach, which prevents you from properly settling in bed.
Same as in the first trimester, at 22 weeks Mood swings are possible and increased emotional sensitivity, but these phenomena are absolutely normal for any pregnant woman.
Reviews from women about 22 weeks
Every expectant mother, looking forward to the birth of her baby, is overwhelmed with emotions associated with the changes that will very soon happen in her life. Here are some women’s impressions of their 22nd week:
Olesya: “I just started my 22nd week! The baby is moving, but for some reason it seems to me that it is rather weak. I feel it mainly at work, when I sit at the computer. “And morning sickness suddenly returned to me, I don’t even know what this could be connected with.”
Marina: “I’m also 22 weeks now, two days ago my husband and I had an ultrasound, but the baby was embarrassed to show his gender. By the way, it seems to me that my tummy has somehow stopped growing lately. The doctor said that this is normal, he will grow again!”
Elena: “I’m so happy that we finally managed to find out who we are waiting for - it’s a girl! I look at the photo that the doctor gave us, I think she looks like my dad. I noticed that I had an aversion to certain foods. It happens that you feel nauseous even just from the smell, and then it quickly goes away.”
Angelina: “At 22 weeks I feel as if I’m not pregnant at all. The only reminder of the baby in your tummy is his kicking. The pain in my back and legs has long gone, so I feel just great.”
Karina: “And before pregnancy I was plump, but now I generally feel just huge and clumsy. It is difficult to get up and lie down, roll over, and shortness of breath often occurs. And my belly is such a size that many people think that I’m about to give birth. I don’t even know what to do with my insatiable appetite, because I want to eat all the time.”
Catherine: “I’m now halfway through 22 weeks. I noticed that my son (we found out his gender a week ago at an ultrasound) is already beginning to show his character and his personality. So, he fights quite hard if I drink cocoa or am on my feet for a long time. But he always calms down when he hears dad’s voice.”
Tamara: “At 22 weeks it’s really hard for me: my lower back ache, my tailbone hurts, I can no longer walk up to the third floor. One consolation is that very soon we will meet my long-awaited baby.”
Alexandra: “I have already managed to gain 6 kilograms, and half came in the last couple of weeks. I can’t say that I eat a lot, but maybe it’s just water retained in the body?”
Alyona: “I’m more pleased with myself now than ever before. I look at myself in the mirror, and I like everything: my tummy is round, my skin has become better, and my eyes are just sparkling. Tomorrow I’m going for an ultrasound, I hope to finally find out who we’re waiting for.”
Natalia: “In general, I feel good, although sometimes I suffer from low blood pressure, but I suffered from this even before pregnancy. This happy time is also slightly overshadowed by leg cramps, which very often appear at night. But the baby is moving more and more often, delighting my husband and me.”
Lily: “Every day I realize more and more that a real person is growing inside me! This causes such a storm of emotions that it is simply beyond words. Although I still have sudden mood swings: it seems like I was just laughing, but now I want to cry. My appetite has become simply ravenous, I eat for two, although I try not to indulge in flour and sweets.”
Victoria: “I now have such a surge of energy and vitality, I want to get as much done as possible before giving birth. My daughter sometimes kicks so hard, especially in the evenings when I am relaxing in front of the TV. When it comes to food, I mostly crave fruit, although I can’t refuse tasty meat either.”
Fetal development at 22 weeks of gestation
The twenty-second week is due to the active development of the fetus inside the womb. So, towards the end
the baby will weigh approximately 450 g, his height will be about 28 cm,
the head circumference is 53.5 millimeters and the abdominal circumference is 54 millimeters.
At this stage, actively improving nervous system fetus The mass of his brain is already approximately 100 grams; all the cells responsible for the further functioning of the nervous system have already been formed. In the future, the mass of neuron processes will increase, and due to this, the weight of the brain.
Reflexes The baby also develops and becomes more complex. Extension and bending of the legs and arms are precisely the movements that make expectant mothers so happy.
Cardiovascular system The baby also continues to develop, and its heart increases in size. Calcium is deposited in bone tissue, which is necessary for bones to become hard and strong. By this time, the spine already has fully formed vertebrae, supporting ligaments and intervertebral discs. Each bone already contains bone marrow, which produces red blood cells.
There has been progress in the development and digestive system. So, the stomach and pancreas of the fetus are already fully functioning, secreting bile. The intestines, in turn, lengthen. The kidneys and endocrine glands are also fully formed. The bronchi and lungs continue to develop.
On ultrasound you can already see that facial features The child’s features have become clearer, although not all of them are fully formed. So, the back of the nose has not fully formed, so the nose still looks like a small “button”. Eyebrows are already present on the face, lips also begin to stand out. G
The baby's openings have almost fully developed, but they are still hidden under the eyelids. As a rule, the baby opens his eyes around the twenty-eighth week; at the twenty-second week, the color pigment in the irises is still absent.
The body of the fetus is completely covered with fluffy hairs called lanugo. They are necessary to keep the white creamy substance on the baby’s skin - vernix. This lubricant protects the baby's body from amniotic fluid in the mother's womb.
Leather The baby's breast becomes more and more dense and pink, thanks to the subcutaneous fat accumulating under it, which is necessary for the normal functioning of almost all vital systems of the fetus.
It is very important that the expectant mother establishes emotional contact with him, because the baby is already able to recognize voices and moods. If you put your hand on his stomach, he may respond with a push.
Fetal ultrasound photo
And in this photo, a 3D ultrasound at 22 weeks shows the baby’s face:
Of course, pregnancy is a happy time, but it is also often accompanied by many difficulties. In order for the expectant mother to boast of excellent health, she must adhere to the following recommendations:
follow the rules of healthy eating;
know how to behave in case of pain, swelling and other unpleasant symptoms that may appear in the second trimester of pregnancy;
undergo the necessary examinations in a timely manner .
Nutrition at 22 weeks
As for recommendations at 22 weeks of pregnancy, during this period it is very important to pay special attention to your diet. Balanced, it is a source of essential nutrients, both for the baby and for the mother herself.
It is important that a woman does not go hungry.
It is best to eat in small portions, but several times a day, then your overall well-being will certainly improve.
Of course, every woman’s body is unique, but experts advise increasing the number of calories consumed daily to 500-800, because all of them will go towards the growth of body tissues of the baby and the pregnant woman herself.
The child receives all the necessary energy from the mother’s body. He needs it to accumulate fats, proteins and carbohydrates, as well as to ensure normal life functions.
If there are not enough calories, protein will only become an energy source, but it will not contribute to growth and development.
To saturate your own body with useful substances, which is enough for two, you need to consume:
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dairy and fermented milk products (cheeses, yoghurts, kefir, milk porridges, etc.);
fresh fruits;
products made from wholemeal flour;
dried fruits.
lean meat;
All kinds of sweets and yeast baked goods should be consumed very moderately, or better yet, avoided altogether. The same applies to salty foods, because consuming salt in large quantities will contribute to fluid retention in the body and the occurrence of edema.
How to deal with pain and hemorrhoids
As already mentioned, pregnant women often suffer from back and leg pain at 22 weeks. The following ways can help reduce pain:
A special bandage will help relieve back pain and reduce the load on the spine, which can be worn throughout pregnancy, but only after consulting a doctor; Read about how to choose a bandage for pregnant women
To reduce back pain, you can lie on your side with a pillow between your legs;
moderate physical activity in the form also helps to reduce pain;
it is advisable not to spend too much time on your feet, but to sit only on chairs with backrests;
To make your legs hurt and swell less, you need to rest by placing them on some elevation;
You only need to wear comfortable shoes without heels.
As for hemorrhoids, which can cause a lot of trouble as early as 22 weeks, it is very important to avoid constipation. To prevent this from happening, you need to eat foods rich in fiber, drink plenty of fluids. In extreme cases, it is possible to use special suppositories, but only after the doctor’s approval.
Examinations at 22 weeks
The twenty second week is important screening period. Often it is during this period that an ultrasound is performed, in which special attention is paid to the following aspects:
exclusion of possible developmental defects of the baby;
determining whether the child's size matches the expected size;
In addition, during the procedure, the doctor will be able to assess the degree of development and functioning of all the baby’s internal organs. Future parents will be able to examine their baby in detail, find out his gender and listen to his heart beat.
In general, week 22 is the period when
the expectant mother should fully enjoy herself,
with your interesting position and communication with your baby, because then there will be less and less time for this. Of course, it is very important to try not to worry about trifles, to always remain in a good mood, enjoying every moment, because then all these positive emotions will be passed on to the baby.