Pregnancy week by week · trimester 2
🥭 22 weeks pregnant: your baby is about the size of a papaya
At 22 weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of a papaya, and tiny eyebrows and eyelashes are beginning to show.
Your baby this week
Your baby is about the size of a papaya, around 27.8cm long and 430g. Little eyebrows and eyelashes are growing, and the lips are more defined. The eyes are formed, but the coloured part is still developing. Your baby's grip is getting stronger, and they may hold the umbilical cord. The inner ear is developed enough for your baby to sense movement and position. Your voice is likely one of the sounds they hear most.
You this week
Your bump is growing, and so might your appetite. Some mums notice their belly button popping out. You may feel kicks more often, and occasionally a rhythmic jumping, which is usually your baby's hiccups. Backache, heartburn, swollen feet and the odd headache are all common. If you are feeling worried or low, you are not alone, and your midwife or GP can help.
Kind things to do this week
- Talk or sing to your baby; they are beginning to hear your voice.
- Eat smaller meals and keep a glass of milk or water nearby for heartburn.
- Look into maternity leave and pay; you need to tell your employer by 15 weeks before your due date.
Questions to ask your midwife
- What birth options are available near me?
- Is heartburn medicine safe to take?
When to call your midwife or maternity unit
Once you have started to feel your baby move regularly, if the movements slow down, stop or change, contact your maternity unit straight away, day or night. Do not wait until the next day. Please also call if you have any bleeding, fluid leaking, a severe headache, changes to your vision, or sudden swelling of your face, hands or feet.
OBubba from bump to baby
Follow your pregnancy week by week, free.
OBubba is free through pregnancy, with a weekly update, kick counting and contraction timing. On the day your baby arrives, the same app becomes your baby tracker.
Questions
Can my baby hear me at 22 weeks?
Your baby's hearing is developing, and many sounds, including your voice and heartbeat, are likely reaching them.
Why does my baby get hiccups?
Hiccups are thought to be part of how babies practise breathing movements. They feel like small, rhythmic jumps and are harmless.
Not sure how far along you are? Use the due date calculator.
Sources
OBubba gives general information. It is not medical advice and does not diagnose anything. Your midwife and maternity unit are always the right people to ask, any time of day or night.