Second Trimester
Week 22: Baby
Here's everything happening with your baby and your body this week.
Your baby is the size of a
Papaya
Length
11 in
Weight
430 g
Week
22 / 40
💡 Expert tip
Leg elevation, compression socks, and staying active all help with swelling and varicose veins.
🌱 Baby's development this week
- Eyelids still fused but eyes moving beneath
- Sense of touch well-developed
- Lips more defined
- Brain growing at extraordinary speed
Science fact
At 22 weeks, a baby
🤰 Your symptoms this week
Stretch marks appearing
affect 90% of women; genetics are the main factor
Face and skin darkening (melasma)
use SPF 30+ daily
Increased sweating
hormones elevate body temperature; wear breathable fabrics
💛 Changes in your body
- Kicks may be keeping you awake at night
- Stretch marks developing on abdomen, breasts, hips
- Skin darkening on face (melasma/mask of pregnancy)
- Feet and ankles may begin swelling
💙 Mental health this week
Melasma (facial darkening) affects up to 70% of pregnant women. It
🥗 Nutrition focus
- Calcium 1000mg/day remains critical — bones are mineralizing rapidly
- Folate from food sources continues to matter beyond the first trimester
- Limit processed foods — excess sodium worsens swelling and fluid retention
📅 Appointment / test
If you haven
✅ This week's checklist
Apply SPF 30+ to face daily to reduce melasma
Walk for 20–30 minutes after dinner — reduces heartburn and improves sleep
Research and compare maternity hospitals or birth centers if you haven
Track your pregnancy week by week
Interactive guide · 40 weeks · Fruit size visualizations · Personalized tips
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