Source: bing.comTable of Contents
What’s happening inside the womb at 22 weeks?
At 22 weeks, your baby is around the size of a papaya and weighs about 1 pound. They are almost 11 inches long and have developed a sense of touch. Your baby’s skin is still translucent, but their features are more defined. Their eyebrows and eyelashes are growing, and their eyes are fully formed. The iris now has pigmentation, which will determine the color of their eyes. Their fingernails and toenails are also formed.
What organs are developing?
Your baby’s pancreas is producing insulin, which helps regulate sugar in their bloodstream. Their liver and spleen are also helping to produce red and white blood cells. The lungs are continuing to develop, and although they are not yet fully functional, your baby is practicing breathing movements. The brain is developing rapidly, and your baby is beginning to form memories.
What about the senses?
At 22 weeks, your baby’s sense of touch is developing. They can feel pressure and even react to pain. Their hearing is also more acute, and they can hear your voice and other sounds outside the womb. If you play music or sing to your baby, they may even recognize the sounds after birth.
What should you do at this stage?
It’s important to continue eating a healthy and balanced diet, which will provide the necessary nutrients for your baby’s growth and development. You may also want to start preparing for your baby’s arrival by shopping for baby gear, decorating the nursery, and attending childbirth classes.
FAQs
Can the baby survive if born prematurely at 22 weeks?
While some babies born at 22 weeks may survive with intensive medical care, the likelihood of survival is low. Babies born before 24 weeks are considered extremely premature and face numerous health challenges.
What is the average weight of a 22-week fetus?
At 22 weeks, the average weight of a fetus is around 1 pound.
When can you feel the baby move at 22 weeks?
You may begin to feel your baby’s movements, also known as quickening, at around 22 weeks. The movements may feel like flutters or bubbles.
What should you do if you experience cramping or bleeding at 22 weeks?
If you experience cramping or bleeding, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider right away. These symptoms may indicate a serious complication and require immediate attention.
Can you determine the baby’s gender at 22 weeks?
Yes, you can typically determine your baby’s gender through an ultrasound at around 20 weeks. However, it’s not always possible to get a clear view of the genitalia, so the accuracy of the prediction may vary.
Conclusion
At 22 weeks, your baby is developing rapidly and their organs and senses are becoming more sophisticated. Take care of yourself and your baby by eating well and preparing for their arrival. If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider.