22 weeks pregnant: baby, body and what to expect

Trimester 2 of 3About 5 months18 weeks to go

Week 22 of pregnancy: baby is about the size of a papaya

Week 22 at a glance

At 22 weeks, the fetus is often about 27–28 cm (10.6–11 in) long and weighs around 430 g (15.2 oz), about the size of a papaya. Touch is developing well, and the baby may touch its face and umbilical cord while exploring its body.

22 weeks pregnant is about 5 months. You are in month 6 of pregnancy and the second trimester.

Your baby at 22 weeks

Touch Is Developing, and the Baby May Touch Its Face and Umbilical Cord

At 22 weeks, touch plays an important role: the baby may touch its face and umbilical cord.

What is happening this week

The fetus is often about 27–28 cm (10.6–11 in) long and weighs around 430 g (15.2 oz). Touch and coordination continue to develop, so the baby actively explores its own body and the space around it.

The baby may touch its face, hands and umbilical cord.
Movement coordination and skin sensitivity continue to develop.
The fetus keeps practicing swallowing, moving and changing position.

On ultrasound, touches to the face, thumb-sucking or holding the cord can sometimes be seen clearly. If these movements are not captured on the scan, that is usually normal, since the baby does not stay in the same position all the time.

How this week may feel

In the second trimester, the belly becomes more noticeable, and many people begin to feel stronger, more regular kicks. Heartburn, constipation, tiredness or low back pain can still occur. Many providers recommend bringing any new symptoms up at your next prenatal visit.

Contact your OB-GYN or midwife right away if you have bleeding, fluid leaking from the vagina, severe or ongoing belly or pelvic pain, fever, a sudden worsening of how you feel, or a noticeable drop in movements after you have already been feeling them regularly.

3D

See week 22 in 3DNova shows how your baby grows each week and keeps a symptom log for your doctor. Try Nova

Your body at 22 weeks

Nighttime Leg Cramps at 22 Weeks Pregnant: Causes and Relief

Many pregnant people notice a sudden, sharp tightening of the calf muscles, especially at night. Although the cramp can be very painful, it is usually harmless and linked to normal body changes during pregnancy.

Why do cramps happen?

The exact cause of cramps is not fully understood. Experts think they may be linked to several factors:

Extra weight that puts more load on the leg muscles.
Pressure from the growing uterus on the blood vessels in the pelvis, which can slow blood flow back up from the legs.
Changes in electrolytes, the minerals in the blood that help muscles work.

Cramps were once thought to be caused only by low magnesium or calcium. Research on whether supplements prevent cramps is mixed. Ask your provider before you start any supplement or change your diet to address cramps.

How can I ease a cramp?

Gently pull your toes toward your shin (toward your knee).
Rub the tight muscle in slow circles.
Stand up and put your weight on the affected foot, or walk around the room.

When should I call my provider?

Call your healthcare provider right away if cramps come with swelling, skin redness, pain along a vein, or warmth in one leg. These can be signs of a blood clot (deep vein thrombosis), which needs prompt medical care. Call 911 if you have chest pain or trouble breathing.

Common symptoms at 22 weeks

Leg cramps

Sudden tightening in the calf or foot, often at night, is common this week. Gentle stretches before bed and staying hydrated may help ease them.

Heartburn

A burning feeling in the chest or throat can happen as the growing uterus pushes on the stomach. Smaller meals and staying upright after eating may bring some relief.

Backache

Lower back soreness is common as posture shifts and the body adjusts its weight. Supportive shoes, good posture, and gentle movement can help.

Stuffy nose

Extra blood flow can cause nasal congestion or nosebleeds, even without a cold. A humidifier or saline spray may make breathing more comfortable.

Skin changes

A dark line may appear down the belly, and patches of darker skin can show up on the face. These changes usually fade after pregnancy, and sunscreen can help prevent darkening.

Your week 22 checklist

Stretch your calves gently before bed. Drink water through the day, and keep a bottle nearby. Sleep on your side with a pillow between your knees if it feels comfortable. Write down any questions to bring to your next prenatal visit. Wear supportive shoes and take short breaks if you stand for long periods. Call your provider if you notice swelling, redness, or pain in one leg.

Tests and appointments

Anatomy ultrasound. A detailed ultrasound is often offered between 18 and 22 weeks to check the baby's growth and organs, and it may already be done.

For your partner: You can offer to help with calf stretches or back rubs when cramps or aches show up. Going to appointments together and asking questions can also make this stage feel more shared.

Questions about week 22

How many months is 22 weeks pregnant?

22 weeks pregnant is about 5 months. You are in month 6 of pregnancy and the second trimester.

What trimester is 22 weeks?

Week 22 is in the second trimester. The first trimester runs through week 13, the second from week 14 to 27 and the third from week 28 until birth.

What is happening with the baby at 22 weeks?

At 22 weeks, the fetus is often about 27–28 cm (10.6–11 in) long and weighs around 430 g (15.2 oz), about the size of a papaya. Touch is developing well, and the baby may touch its face and umbilical cord while exploring its body.

Are leg cramps at 22 weeks normal?

Yes, leg cramps are common in pregnancy, especially at night. Stretching, staying hydrated, and staying active may help. Tell your provider if cramps are severe or happen often.

Why does my nose bleed during pregnancy?

Pregnancy increases blood flow, which can make the nose's inner lining dry or sensitive. Saline spray and a humidifier may help. Mention frequent or heavy nosebleeds to your provider.

Can the baby touch its face at 22 weeks?

Yes, the baby is developing its sense of touch and may touch its face, body, and cord. Movements are usually gentle and part of normal development.