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Women’s Services   

  Women’s Services

Your Pregnancy at Week 22

This week, your baby is as big as a coconut.

Explore your pregnancy at Week 22

Week 18
Week 19
Week 20
Week 21
Week 22
Week 23
Week 24
Week 25
Week 26

18 Weeks to go!

The following information was reviewed by Dr. Chor, Michael

At A Glance

Week-22

Looks more and more clear

From now on the ultrasound examinations will show more distinctive features. You might even begin to see a resemblance.

Increased fetal movement

Pregnant women can feel their baby's movement more clearly if they lie still or sit in a chair. In addition to feeling the movement, they may also hear the sound of the outside world as their baby kicks their mother's belly with their little feet.

Baby Development at 22 Weeks

growing muscle strength

The grip is getting stronger

Baby's small muscles are developing and the nervous system is strengthening the five senses. Their little fingers will attempt to grasp the small ears, nose and umbilical cord.

respiratory system

Cartilage turns to bone

Your baby is getting stronger every day! Cartilage is turning into bone, and the limbs are now coordinated thanks to neurons that have connected to control them.

Your Pregnancy Symptoms at Week 22

By the 22nd week of pregnancy, most women have adapted to the discomforting symptoms.

However, you may still be experiencing some discomfort and it is important to listen to your body and rest when you need to. Here are still some symptoms to watch out for:

Nipples start to develop white flakes that look like acne

The white residues you see is colostrum, which is produced by the breasts during the second trimester of pregnancy. It's perfectly normal during this stage of pregnancy even if it does not happen to everybody.

Vaginal discharge begins to increase

In early pregnancy, you will experience thin, milky white vaginal discharge, the amount of discharge will likely increase as your pregnancy progresses. It is similar to the vaginal discharge you might experience between periods, only heavier.

This is a normal symptom, but it can also occur before menstruation. The difference is that the discharge is thicker and heavier during pregnancy. This is due to the increased oestrogen in the body, which causes more blood flow to the vagina. Don't underestimate leukorrhea - it can help maintain a healthy balance of beneficial bacteria in the birth canal and vagina, and protect the developing baby.

Heartburn and indigestion

Pregnancy causes the body to produce a lot of oestrogen, which relaxes the lower oesophageal sphincter and leads to acid reflux. This can cause a burning sensation in your chest and lead to indigestion. Although not bad for you, it can be uncomfortable. Healthy eating, regular small meals and keeping upright can help relieve the symptoms. 

Numbness of hands and feet

Numbness is one of the more common pregnancy symptoms. It is mainly related to posture and the build up of fluid (oedema) in the extremities. In daily life, you may maintain the same posture for a long time, compressing the nerve line. At the same time, you're getting less exercise or walking than you did before pregnancy, which results in poor blood circulation in the limbs. The uterus is also getting bigger as the baby grows, pressing on the pelvis. Regular movement and stretching will help, but remember to seek help from your Women's Health Physiotherapist if you have any concerns. 

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Advice from OT&P Obstetricians

Being sick is the last thing on one's mind, especially when pregnant. However, due to the slight suppression of the immune system in pregnant women, they are more likely to get sick than the average person. Many pregnant women are worried that taking medicine will affect the fetus in the womb, but in fact, delaying treatment may lead to more serious complications.

If a pregnant woman develops common symptoms of the common cold, such as a sore throat, runny nose, or cough, it is recommended that she seek medical attention as soon as possible. The doctor will prescribe medicines suitable for pregnant women to help her recover quickly. If a pregnant woman develops fever symptoms, it must be treated promptly to avoid any adverse effects on the fetus caused by prolonged fever. In the second trimester (weeks 13-27), the fetus is relatively stable. If one wishes to go on a short trip, this will be the most suitable period during the entire pregnancy! It is recommended that they discuss with their obstetrician before departure, and bring medical records and a safe medicine kit suitable for pregnant women to make them feel more at ease throughout the journey.

 

Tips for 22 Weeks Pregnant

  • Adequate intake of magnesium can help keep your baby's bones and teeth healthy
  • Do more exercise to reduce the chances of numbness in your hands and feet
  • Take a deep breath, let your body and mind relax
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