22 Weeks Pregnant: Have You Popped Yet?

Your Baby at 22 Weeks

Your little one is long and lean at this stage—measuring about 25 centimetres (10 inches) from head to toe and weighing around 450 grams (1 pound). They haven’t put on much baby fat yet, so their skin still looks quite thin. Tiny hairs are sprouting on their head and eyebrows, too.

Your baby is practising grasping, sometimes holding onto their ears or the thick umbilical cord that drifts around them. Their lungs are filled with fluid for now, but they’re already forming the tiny air sacs that will one day help them breathe air.

Inside their head, big changes are underway. Taste buds are forming, and soon your baby will start recognising the flavours from your meals. They can also hear your voice and sense light—even though their eyelids remain closed while their eyes continue to develop. Their brain is growing rapidly, and by birth it will be 17 times bigger than it is now!

Your bub also has their own sleep–wake rhythm, snoozing for about 12 to 14 hours a day.

Size of Baby at 22 Weeks

At 22 weeks, your baby is about the size of a capsicum (bell pepper).

22 Weeks Is How Many Months Pregnant?

You’re about five months and one week pregnant.

22 Weeks Pregnant: What to Expect

Noticed your belly button changing shape? As your bump grows, your uterus pushes against the skin behind your navel, sometimes turning an “innie” into an “outie.” This doesn’t happen to everyone, and most belly buttons return to normal after birth. If yours feels sensitive, soothe it with a little shea or cocoa butter and cover it with a plaster/band-aid for protection.

Sciatic Pain During Pregnancy

The extra weight of your growing baby and amniotic fluid can put pressure on the nerves in your lower back and pelvis. This can lead to lower back pain and sometimes sciatica—a pain that runs down the backs of your legs. It can feel like a dull ache, pins-and-needles, or even sharp shooting pain.

If pain worsens, check with your midwife or doctor. Medication is usually avoided, but you may be encouraged to try:

• Prenatal yoga (poses like child’s pose or cat-cow can gently stretch your back)
• Using a foam roller against the wall or floor to ease tight muscles
• Heat or cold packs
• Massage therapy or mild chiropractic treatment

22 Weeks Pregnant Symptoms

Some common second-trimester symptoms include:

• Heartburn or indigestion
• Popped-out belly button
• Increased libido
• Muscle or back pain
• Hair growth
• More energy (for some!)

Pregnancy To-Do List at 22 Weeks

• Skip unnecessary radiation: Avoid extra X-rays. If one is medically required, ask for a lead apron to protect your bump. Airport security scanners are considered safe, but you can always request a pat-down instead.
• Adjust your car seat: As your bump grows, slide your seat back a little for more space between you and the airbag. Always wear your seatbelt correctly—the lap strap should go under your bump and across your hips, never over your belly.
• Sit on a birthing ball: A large, well-inflated exercise ball can support your posture, ease back pain, and gently open your pelvis. Choose the right size for your height (55cm for under 160cm / 5’3”; 65cm for 162–172cm / 5’4”–5’8”; 75cm for 175cm+ / 5’9”+). Hips should be higher than your knees when seated. Try gentle rocking or figure-eight movements—it’ll be handy practice for labour, too.
• Soak beans, nuts, and grains: Overnight soaking makes foods like rice, quinoa, beans, and almonds easier to digest and may boost nutrient absorption. Always discard the soaking water before cooking.

Myth or Fact: Is Oral Sex Safe in Pregnancy?

Generally, oral sex is safe during pregnancy. The main exceptions: if your partner has a cold sore or an untreated STI—both of which need medical attention. Orgasms may trigger Braxton Hicks contractions, which can feel unusual but are not harmful. If you’ve been advised to avoid sexual activity (for example, due to risk of preterm labour or bed rest), check with your midwife or doctor before engaging.

Pregnancy Quote of the Week

“My mum used to say it doesn’t matter how many kids you have...because one kid’ll take up 100% of your time, so more kids can’t possibly take up more than 100% of your time.” — Karen Brown

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