WeMoms
9 Apr 2024

Your body at 22 weeks of pregnancy

Your Body at 22 Weeks
As you marvel at the journey thus far, it's essential to stay informed and prepared for what lies ahead. 

Your body is undergoing incredible transformations, supporting not just your well-being but also your growing baby's development. 

Let's delve into this week's key changes and offer practical advice for navigating them with ease.
Juliette
Midwife for 8+ years
Symptoms of the week
Stretch Marks

Linea Nigra

Skin Tags

Stretch Marks: Appearing in various hues across your skin, a testament to your body's expansion.

Linea NigraThe noticeable dark line running down your abdomen.

Skin Tags: Small, benign growths in areas of skin friction.

Others

Brain Fog: Moments of forgetfulness or reduced concentration.

Swelling in Extremities: Noticeable in feet and hands.

Increased Body Temperature: Feeling warmer than usual.
Your baby practices breathing, leading to strong kicks. A sense of excitement grows as your baby's position stabilizes for birth.
International Journal of Gynecology and Obstetrics
Is it normal?
Indeed, each symptom, from stretch marks to the linea nigra, is a natural part of pregnancy, driven by hormonal changes and physical growth. 
Weight gain is expected and healthy, with an average of 10-15 pounds by now aligning with a healthy pregnancy trajectory. 
Brain fogskin changesand increased body warmth are all responses to the physiological demands of nurturing a new life.
Top Asked Questions
Top 4 questions answered
What can I do to prevent stretch marks?

Keep your skin hydrated with moisturizing creams, stay hydrated, and maintain a healthy weight to help prevent stretch marks.

What should I expect at my next doctor's appointment?

Your doctor will likely check your baby's growth, measure your belly, and check your blood pressure and urine for any signs of complications.

When should I start shopping for baby items?

You can start shopping for baby items anytime during your pregnancy, but some people prefer to wait until after their baby shower.

What are some good exercises to do during the third trimester?

Low-impact exercises like swimming, prenatal yoga, and walking can help prepare your body for labor and delivery.

Taking care of yourself
Optimal Rest: Aim for 8-10 hours of sleep nightly to regulate hormones and manage weight.

Organization: Keep track of important tasks and information to combat forgetfulness.

Clothing Choices: Select loose, comfortable clothing to minimize skin irritation.

Skin Care: Gently cleanse with mild, fragrance-free products to soothe skin rashes.

Exercise: Consider swimming for its low-impact benefits, reducing swelling and promoting relaxation.
Tips of the week
Teaser for next week
Prepare for continued bodily changes, including a more pronounced bump, increased appetite, and potential hot flashes

These developments are all part of the journey toward motherhood.
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S
Skyler
9 Aug 2023

22w + 2 and I’m experiencing yellow discharge in large amounts. Anyone else have this? I’m so worried. This is my first pregnancy and I just got an ultrasound 2 days ago and they said she was looking healthy. Maybe im just overthinking.

4 comments
K
Keisha
Might be a std
27 Mar 2024

Answer

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S
Skyler
I got tested for STDS and they came back negative
27 Mar 2024

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D
Darci
27 Dec 2022

So had family time today and meet up with my sister who announced shes pregnant and told me she didn't want to tell me cuz she thought it would be a competition. Knowing I just lost a baby at 12w and I would have been 22w Thursday. #pissed#family

5 comments
X
Xena
Competition no, but I could understand not wanting to tell you because it could hurt you from the loss of the baby.
27 Mar 2024

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D
Darci
she told me everything with me she feels like it's a competition 😥 that makes me feel horrible
27 Mar 2024

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E
Elora
27 Sep 2022

So I'm not showing to the point people can notice and I'm at 22w 6days... I'm curious for those that showed late when did you started showing? Were you big at 30weeks specifically (that's how far I'll be on my baby shower date)

6 comments
J
Jennifer
I'm 33 weeks and still not showing crazy. I mean you can definitely tell I'm pregnant but don't look that far along. I for sure got bigger around 27/28 weeks!
27 Mar 2024

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A
Alexia💕🌺
I'm 26 weeks and I barely have a bump
27 Mar 2024

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T
Tammy
7 Jul 2022

Just a little bump pic from this past Sunday for date night and Ollie has really made his presence known. 22w and 1d here

3 comments
T
Tammy
Thank you! I got it on Amazon for like $15 I think🙂
27 Mar 2024

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L
Liaha
super cute and wow I've been looking on there for shorts with pockets and capris
27 Mar 2024

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