Your Pregnancy: Week 22

It may start getting difficult to get in full breaths at this stage of pregnancy. At 22 weeks you may notice that you’re out of breath quite a bit, as baby grows and starts to crowd out your lungs. Climbing stairs or even just rolling over in bed can leave you winded, so be sure to take it slow and take breaks when necessary.

Swelling of extremities
You may start to notice your hands, feet, and ankles swelling quite a bit lately. With an increase of fluids in your body, this is completely normal but be aware that sudden, painful swelling could be a sign of preeclampsia. Contact your doctor if you have sudden swelling

Protruding belly button
As your belly expands, your belly button may start to protrude a bit; again, very normal and it will return to its normal state soon enough. Unless you had an outie to begin with, in which case, this minor pregnancy symptom isn’t bothering you one bit

Stretch marks
Your body has been undergoing considerable change over the last several weeks. As your skin stretches, it may leave behind stretch marks or striae, which are normal. They may fade after pregnancy or remain. You can treat the itchiness with moisturizing body butter if you find it uncomfortable.

At 22 weeks, you’re now just about 5 months pregnant. You’re over halfway there!

A 22-week old fetus is pretty active for a good part of the day, though likely baby is sleeping for the other half. Chances are when you’re trying to sleep, baby will be kicking and punching up a storm. You may be able to catch some of those kicks and punches on an ultrasound at this stage of your pregnancy. Your technician will also be able to point out the baby’s major organs and limbs, so that’s always a fun appointment.

Your belly is stretching and growing now, and stretch marks may begin to show. You’ll likely start to really feel pregnant right about now, so wearing comfortable loose clothing is a good idea.

• Since baby is growing rapidly now, you may want to order a pregnancy pillow. This will help you sleep more comfortably as it takes the pressure off of your back and hips..
• Compression socks may be another wise purchase at 22 weeks pregnant. Circulation can get stagnant at this point and many moms-to-be experience their first spider and varicose veins during pregnancy. Compression socks will help improve blood flow and keep it from pooling in the lower legs. They can also help reduce the chance of blood clots forming.

• Time for something fun! Now may be a good time to plan a maternity photo session. Check out photoshoot ideas on the internet to see what speaks to you and get that appointment scheduled.
• If you’re feeling up to it, a babymoon might be in order. Your energy may be coming back so if it’s safe to travel, consider a quick staycation before baby arrives. Conversely, if you’re starting to feel good and energetic, now may also be a good time to get some of those projects done around the house, before your third trimester begins.

Continue taking your prenatal vitamins to keep you and your baby healthy. Ensure you’re eating a variety of foods with Omega 3 fatty acids like greens and salmon. Dairy products will also help to keep your bones strong and make sure baby’s teeth and bones are developing properly. Sources of Omega 3 fatty acids include:

• Leafy green vegetables
• Lean proteins such as salmon
• Fruits and vegetables

Cramping, bleeding, and pain should be reported to your doctor immediately. If you notice a sudden onset of swelling in your hands or feet, it’s also a good idea to let your doctor know. Preeclampsia can come on suddenly and should be addressed right away.

• Bleeding
• Chills or fever
• Swelling of extremeties
• Severe abdominal pain

Pregnant women are at a higher risk of illness as a result of a COVID-19 diagnosis and those diagnosed with COVID-19 have an increased chance of delivering pre-term (before 37 weeks), according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Note: If you are visiting your doctor during COVID, be sure to confirm that the doctor’s office is following COVID protocols as indicated by the CDC.

The needs of the LGBTQ+ community are often left out of research around contraception, pregnancy, surrogacy and adoption.

A recent study has provided guidance to caregivers on ways to appropriately evaluate the inclusion of LGBTQ people in the research. Read more about the study in the Jacobs Institute for Women’s Health.