Week 22
Your baby recognizes your voice
Your baby’s senses are waking up as they start to recognize your voice, movements, and even tastes.
Baby's size this week
About the size of
a papaya
- Length
- 11 in (28 cm)
- Weight
- 15.2 oz (430 g)
About the size of a spaghetti squash, with tiny eyebrows and eyelashes taking shape.
Sophie reads you this week
A short note, out loud·1:14
What To Expect
This week, your baby’s senses are coming alive. They’re practicing swallowing amniotic fluid, which lets them taste what you’ve eaten. Their hearing is sharpening, meaning they can now recognize your voice and even respond to music or loud noises with subtle movements.
Their skin is still translucent, but tiny eyebrows and eyelashes are starting to form. Underneath, fat is slowly building up, smoothing out their once-wrinkly appearance. Their brain is growing rapidly, creating the connections needed for learning and memory.
You might feel more kicks and rolls as your baby grows stronger. These movements are becoming more coordinated, though they’re still not rhythmic enough to count as kicks for kick counts yet. It’s a gentle reminder of the little one growing inside you.
Things To Be Aware Of
Leg cramps and swelling are common as your body works harder to support your growing baby. Staying hydrated, stretching, and elevating your feet can help. If swelling feels sudden or severe, mention it to your provider, it’s always better to check.
You might notice some mild breathlessness. Your uterus is pushing against your diaphragm, making deep breaths a bit harder. This is normal, but if it feels extreme or accompanies chest pain, get it checked out.
Skin changes like stretch marks or darkening can pop up now. While they’re harmless, they can feel frustrating. Keeping your skin moisturized might help, but many changes fade postpartum.
What Might Happen
You’re likely nearing your anatomy scan, if you haven’t had it yet. This detailed ultrasound checks your baby’s development and can often reveal the sex, if you’re interested. It’s a special glimpse at your growing little one.
Some providers may discuss childbirth classes around this time. It’s early, but these classes can fill up quickly, and they’re a great way to prepare for delivery and newborn care.
You might start thinking about maternity leave or nursery plans. It’s okay to take things one step at a time, but jotting down ideas now can ease the load later.
- Book or attend your anatomy scan
- Look into childbirth classes
- Consider starting a baby registry, if you haven’t already
