Week 22 of Pregnancy
Second trimester
Baby is
about the size of a papaya
7.5 inches · 1 pound
Baby this week
- •Can hear sounds from outside the womb more clearly, including your voice
- •Developing taste buds and can taste flavors from amniotic fluid
- •Eyes are fully formed, though still closed; eyebrows and eyelashes are visible
- •Fingerprints are forming and are now unique to your baby
- •Rapid brain development is happening, including areas for memory and thought
You this week
- •Increased swelling in feet and ankles, especially in the afternoon or after standing
- •Occasional sharp ligament pain (round ligament pain) as uterus expands
- •Backaches from postural changes and weight shift
- •Heartburn and indigestion as baby crowds digestive organs
- •Vivid dreams, possibly related to hormones and sleep disruptions
- •Increased appetite or cravings
This week's tips
- •Elevate your feet when sitting and wear supportive, comfortable shoes to manage swelling
- •Start gentle stretching or pregnancy-safe exercises to ease back pain and improve posture
- •Eat smaller, more frequent meals to help with heartburn; avoid triggers like spicy or acidic foods
- •Talk and sing to your baby—they're listening and recognizing your voice now
- •Schedule any important dental work this week; the second trimester is ideal for dental care
- •Consider taking a hospital tour or childbirth class if you haven't already
Looking ahead
You're officially in the third trimester next week! Your baby is becoming increasingly viable outside the womb, and you'll likely notice more distinct movements and patterns from here on out.
Get next week's update delivered
We'll send you week 23's update — baby development, tips, and baby-friendly places to discover. Free, unsubscribe anytime.
More free tools
Looking for places to bring baby?
Explore BringBaby