Pregnancy - Week 21 and 22

Your changing body

You are probably feeling quite wonderful now that most of the early pregnancy symptoms like nausea, dizziness, frequent urination and fatigue are gone in week 21. You may be able to feel your Uterus about a half inch above your navel if you place your fingers. You may notice that your lower legs and feet swell towards the end of the day. This is due to the retention of excessive fluid during pregnancy. Try to get plenty of rest.

At week 22, you may have gained around 5.4 and 6.8 kg until this point. From now on, you may begin to gain weight more steadily—expect to gain about 225 g per week during the rest of your pregnancy. Vaginal discharge may be increased due to the increase of blood flow to your sexual organs and breasts. As a result, your desire to have sex will often increase during this stage.

Do not be surprised if vast majority of the people you meet begin to notice that you are indeed pregnant as your expanding Uterus pushes out your abdomen.

Your growing baby

Your baby measures nearly 27 cm from crown to heel and weighs about 360 g in week 21. Your baby’s eyelids and eyebrows are fully developed and become very active as he or she is busy moving around and swallowing the amniotic. Your baby’s bone marrow starts to produce red blood Cells. You are most likely to get more familiar with your baby’s sleep and wake cycles as the months progress. At this stage, your baby may also be able to hear what you talk. So it’s a good idea to start reading some bedtime stories for your baby or play some good music.

At your Prenatal appointment, your doctor will usually check to see if your growing tummy is measuring about right to your dates. If you are small- or large-for-dates, your baby is smaller or bigger than expected. Your doctor will conduct further tests and investigation to ascertain the cause.

At week 22, your baby now weighs 430 g and measures around 28 cm from crown to heel. Your baby looks like a miniature version of a newborn. Your baby’s skin appears wrinkled as not enough fat Cells have been developed yet to fill the skin out. The lips are becoming more distinct. Your baby’s eyes are formed completely, but the iris (the colored part of the eye) still lacks pigment. Tooth buds (foundation for baby teeth) start to appear beneath the gum line of your baby. The pancreas is continuing to mature.

Things to consider

It is common to have an increased vaginal discharge during pregnancy, but do inform your doctor if the odor or color changes significantly. Unless your doctor advises you otherwise it is okay to have sex during pregnancy.

As your nutritional need increases, try to focus on eating balanced meals. Healthy diet during pregnancy is a key for maintaining a healthy pregnancy. Try to include green leafy vegetables, fruits, dairy products, fish and cereals in your diet. Eat more fiber and drink plenty of water to avoid constipation, UTI and Hemorrhoids (piles), which are common pregnancy problems.

What can you plan for this week?

Start looking into childbirth classes if you have not already arranged for one yet. These classes will give you information on what to expect during labor and delivery, teach relaxation techniques to help ensure a smooth delivery. If you need assistance in finding classes, ask your doctor.