ParentSide
Second trimester

22 Weeks Pregnant

Growing and moving

This week your baby is around the size of a papaya.

How your baby is developing

  • Many notice more movement around now, though every baby has their own pattern.
  • Your baby's senses keep developing.

What may be happening in your body

  • You may start noticing stretch marks on your tummy, upper thighs or breasts — they're common in pregnancy, harmless, and usually fade after the birth.
  • Leg cramps — sudden, tight pains in your calves, often at night — are a common symptom in these weeks.
  • Nosebleeds are surprisingly common in pregnancy and can show up around now.

How you may be feeling

  • As your bump becomes more visible, comments and advice from other people can pick up, and it's okay to take what helps and leave the rest.
  • Some people feel a pull to start planning or nesting around now, while for others that urge hasn't arrived — there's no set time for it.
  • Feeling your baby move more can bring comfort — small moments of company through the day.

Worth remembering

There is no single "right" amount of movement — your baby's own rhythm is what matters.

A closer look

Night-time leg cramps

Sudden, tight cramps in your calves or feet are common in pregnancy and often strike at night. When one hits, rub the muscle firmly or pull your toes up towards your ankle to ease it. Being a little more active during the day can also help you avoid them.

Stretch marks, and what they mean

Stretch marks look like lines or streaks on the skin, and in pregnancy they usually appear on the tummy, upper thighs or breasts as the skin stretches. They're common and harmless, and they usually fade after the birth. They're simply a trace of how much your body is doing right now.

Something you can do this week

Every baby has their own rhythm; there is no fixed schedule to match.

What comes next

As you approach the third trimester, movements often strengthen.

Professional support

Services ParentSide defines for this stage. Each page explains what the service covers and which professionals are approved to provide it.

All ParentSide services

Sources and updates

Last reviewed:
This content is based on estimated averages and general information; it does not replace medical advice. If you are concerned about yourself or your baby, speak with a qualified healthcare professional.

All pregnancy weeks