Source: bing.comAs a new mom, it’s only natural to want to know everything about your baby’s development. From the moment you found out you were pregnant, you’ve been eagerly anticipating each milestone. Now that you’ve reached the 22-week mark, your little one is growing and changing at an incredible rate. Here’s what you can expect from your baby’s development after 22 weeks.
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Physical Development
Your baby is now roughly the size of a papaya, measuring nearly 11 inches long and weighing around a pound. Their body is becoming more proportionate, with their head now measuring around one-third of their total body length. Over the next few weeks, your baby’s movements will become stronger and more coordinated. You may even start to notice distinct patterns in your baby’s movements.
At this stage, your baby’s skin is still quite thin and translucent, but this will soon change as fat deposits begin to form under the skin. Your baby’s hair is also starting to grow, and their eyebrows and eyelashes are becoming more prominent. Inside, your baby’s digestive system is maturing, and their intestines are developing muscle contractions that will help them digest food after birth.
Sensory Development
Your baby’s senses are also continuing to develop. They can now hear sounds both inside and outside the womb, and they may even react to loud noises or music. Your baby’s eyes are now fully formed, but they’re still closed. They’ll start to open their eyes around week 26.
Taste buds are also starting to form, and your baby can now taste the amniotic fluid that surrounds them. Researchers have found that babies exposed to a variety of tastes in the womb are more likely to be less picky eaters later in life.
Brain Development
Your baby’s brain is developing rapidly at this stage. They’re now capable of making more complex facial expressions, and they may even start to exhibit “social smiles” in response to your interactions. These smiles are different from reflexive smiles and are a sign that your baby is starting to recognize and respond to the people around them.
Your baby’s brain is also developing the ability to regulate their own body temperature, which will be important for their survival after birth. And they’re starting to develop the ability to distinguish between different sounds and voices.
Emotional Development
While it may be hard to believe, your baby is already starting to develop emotions at this stage. They may feel pleasure when they hear your voice or discomfort when you eat spicy food. They may even start to experience separation anxiety when you’re away from them for too long.
Your baby is also starting to form attachments to the people around them. They may prefer certain voices or respond more positively to certain types of touch. These early attachments are the foundation for your baby’s emotional development later in life.
Conclusion
It’s incredible to think about all the changes that are happening in your baby’s body and brain at this stage of development. As you continue to feel your baby’s movements and see your belly grow, remember that you’re doing an amazing job of nurturing and supporting your little one’s growth. Keep taking care of yourself and your baby, and enjoy this incredible journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How big is my baby at 22 weeks?
A: Your baby is roughly the size of a papaya, measuring nearly 11 inches long and weighing around a pound.
Q: Can my baby hear me at 22 weeks?
A: Yes, your baby can hear sounds both inside and outside the womb at this stage.
Q: Is my baby developing emotions at 22 weeks?
A: Yes, your baby is already starting to develop emotions at this stage. They may feel pleasure when they hear your voice or discomfort when you eat spicy food.
Q: What can I do to support my baby’s development at 22 weeks?
A: Eating a healthy diet, staying active, and getting plenty of rest are all important for supporting your baby’s development at this stage. You can also talk, sing, and read to your baby to help stimulate their senses and promote brain development.
Q: When will my baby’s eyes open?
A: Your baby’s eyes will start to open around week 26.