Week 22 of Pregnancy

What's Happening with Your Baby, Your Body & Your Mind

You've officially passed the halfway point of pregnancy, and Week 22 often feels like you're entering a new rhythm. You may notice that your belly has "popped" a little more, your baby's kicks are becoming distinguishable from gas bubbles, and your emotions are riding a softer wave. It's a week where pregnancy begins to feel more real—less like a secret growing inside you and more like the start of a transition into motherhood. There's a deepening sense of awareness as you start picturing baby's features, imagining your first moments together, and planning for the everyday realities of life with a newborn.

This week also marks a noticeable shift in your physical experience. Swelling, leg aches, and changes to your skin or hair may be showing up—and it can all be a little overwhelming. But with a little insight and the right tools, Week 22 is a time to ground yourself in your instincts and keep growing, both emotionally and physically. You're not just managing symptoms now—you're laying the foundation for the way you'll care for yourself in parenthood. This guide will walk you through what's going on with your baby, your body, your health, and even your upcoming diaper decisions (yes, it's time). Let's begin with what your little one is up to this week.

👶 Baby at 22 Weeks: A Tiny, Intricate World in Progress

Your baby is about the size of a large banana—measuring close to 7.5 inches long from crown to rump and weighing up to 15 ounces. This week, their body is continuing a rapid phase of growth and complexity. While the basic structures of organs and limbs are well-formed, now the internal systems are beginning to mature in earnest.

A few fascinating milestones this week:

• The pancreas, which plays a crucial role in hormone production and later blood sugar regulation, is developing steadily.
• Skin is still wrinkled and translucent but will begin to plump up in the coming weeks as layers of fat accumulate. This is how your baby begins to regulate their temperature.
• Facial features are becoming more distinct, and lanugo (a fine, soft hair) covers their body, helping to keep the skin warm until fat stores increase.
• Eyes are fully developed beneath the eyelids, though the irises still lack pigment. Even after birth, their final eye color may take up to a year to settle, due to melanin production.
• For baby boys, the testes are starting to descend from the pelvis toward the scrotum, although this process will take several weeks.

One of the most heartwarming signs of Week 22? You may begin to feel regular movements, often described as flutters, flicks, or gentle taps. As the days go on, these will evolve into stronger, more recognizable kicks—often timed with certain activities or foods. Many women find this week to be the beginning of bonding in a whole new way.

🤰 Your Body at 22 Weeks: Navigating Swelling, Hair Growth & Body Shifts

By Week 22, your body is in a full, active state of support and adaptation. You're circulating up to 50% more blood than before pregnancy, which means your heart is working harder, and fluid distribution is different. One of the most noticeable effects? Swelling in your feet and ankles.

Why Am I So Puffy?

This swelling, called edema, happens when your growing uterus puts pressure on the large veins returning blood from your lower body to your heart. That pressure slows circulation, leading to fluid buildup in your tissues—especially your lower legs and feet. You may also find that warm weather and being on your feet for long periods make it worse.

Here's what I've seen work:

• Elevate your legs when possible—try lying down with your feet above heart level for 10–15 minutes in the evening.
• Avoid standing or sitting for too long. Try light movement or changing positions frequently to encourage circulation.
• Compression stockings can be surprisingly helpful if swelling is interfering with comfort.
• Stay hydrated. It seems counterintuitive, but drinking plenty of water helps reduce swelling by flushing sodium and promoting balance.
• Limit salt and processed foods, which can contribute to fluid retention.

If you notice sudden or severe swelling, especially in your hands, face, or around the eyes, it's time to call your provider. These could be early warning signs of preeclampsia, a serious condition involving high blood pressure and protein in the urine. Early detection matters, so trust your instincts.

Hair, Nails, and That Unwanted Growth

One of pregnancy's more surprising changes? Lusher hair and stronger nails. Elevated estrogen levels prolong the growing phase of hair, which means less shedding and more volume. Many people feel like they're having a great hair year!

But it's not all baby-glow. You might also notice stray hairs popping up in new places—the chin, upper lip, or even belly. These changes are hormone-related and temporary. Waxing, tweezing, and shaving are all safe options, but avoid bleaching, as the chemicals could be absorbed through the skin.

🩺 Your Health Check-In: Small Signs That Matter

This week, your healthcare provider will likely continue monitoring your weight, blood pressure, and urine for protein (a marker of preeclampsia). You may also be scheduled for gestational diabetes screening in the coming weeks, so this is a great time to ask questions or bring up anything you're unsure about.

Symptoms worth discussing:

• Persistent headaches
• Visual changes (blurriness or flashes)
• Dizziness or fainting
• Reduced fetal movement (if you've been feeling baby consistently)

Feeling your best at this stage starts with staying in tune with your body. A balanced diet, consistent movement (like gentle walks or swimming), and good hydration are all cornerstones of healthy pregnancy. If sleep is getting tricky, consider a pregnancy pillow for back support or adding an extra pillow between your knees.

🍼 Tips & To-Dos: The Diapering Debate Starts Now

Yes, you read that right. It's time to start thinking about diapers. Even though your baby hasn't arrived yet, diapering is a massive part of newborn life, and the choices can be more complex than you'd expect.

Here's what to know:

Diapering Options—A Quick Breakdown

Disposables: These are the most widely used—convenient, accessible, and easy to use. However, they're less eco-friendly and can be pricey over time.

Cloth with Liners: These provide a blend of reusability and cleanup ease. They include a washable outer shell with a flushable liner to contain messes. More eco-conscious, but they do require plumbing compatibility and a few extra steps.

Reusable Cloth Diapers: Today's cloth diapers come with snaps, Velcro, and stylish patterns. While they're the most work and require the highest upfront cost, they are reusable and budget-saving in the long run.

What I've seen work for many families is a hybrid approach—cloth at home, disposables when out or at daycare. Your system can and will evolve with time, and you absolutely do not need to lock in a decision now. Flexibility is your friend.

✅ To-Do List This Week

Here's how to make the most of Week 22:

• Talk with your partner about diapering options—cost, convenience, values.
• Journal about how you're feeling—physically, emotionally, spiritually.
• Take a profile photo of your bump—you'll love seeing the difference in a few weeks.
• Begin your baby registry research—especially around diapering and newborn care essentials.
• Rest and rehydrate. That's not a bonus tip—it's part of your job now.

💛 Meredith's Closing Words

Week 22 is a beautiful blend of preparation and presence. Your baby is growing, your body is working hard, and your instincts are sharpening. This is a good week to settle into the rhythm of it all, to feel your strength, and to begin forming your parenting preferences.

Take the information, the tips, the facts—and then filter it through your own wisdom. You know more than you think. You're building more than a baby. You're building your way into motherhood, one thoughtful step at a time.