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At A Glance
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.
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.
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.
