Pregnancy Week 22
Pregnancy Week 22
What to expect on pregnancy week 22
Pregnancy Week 22 brings continued fetal growth, increasingly strong movement and visible facial details. Eyebrows and scalp hair are now more apparent, the lungs continue developing and the fetus keeps building the structures needed for later life outside the uterus.
Pregnancy Week 22 Overview
At this week your baby weighs in at one pound and measures nearly a foot in length. The brain begins rapid growth and the eyebrows and eyelids are formed. If the baby is a male the testes are now descending into the scrotum.
Your uterus is now extending past your belly button and you will continue to gain weight. To relieve the stress that this extra weight has on your back, try not to sit or stand for long periods of time and when you do sit raise your knees higher than your hips.
Understanding Pregnancy Week 22
Pregnancy Week 22 is part of the second trimester and falls within a period of significant fetal growth and increasingly strong movement.
The NHS describes the fetus as approximately 27.8 centimeters from head to toe, around the size of a sweet potato.
Mayo Clinic describes visible eyebrows and scalp hair as notable Week 22 developments.
The fetal lungs continue developing while swallowing and breathing-like practice movements occur inside the uterus.
Important Clarification About the Original Week 22 Guide
The original Week 22 material has been preserved exactly above. Several statements benefit from current medical context.
One Pound Is a Reasonable Week 22 Estimate
The original guide describes a fetal weight of approximately one pound.
Mayo Clinic currently gives a Week 22 estimate of approximately 460 grams, or about 1 pound.
That part of the original guide is therefore reasonably consistent with current educational estimates.
“Nearly a Foot Long” Depends on How Length Is Measured
The NHS gives an approximate 27.8-centimeter head-to-toe measurement, which is just under 11 inches.
Mayo Clinic instead gives approximately 19 centimeters or 7.5 inches crown-to-rump.
These numbers are not contradictory because they use different fetal measurement methods.
Brain Development Continues, but Week 22 Is Not One Sudden Starting Point
The brain is undergoing important development throughout pregnancy.
However, current ACOG, NHS and Mayo Clinic Week 22 guidance does not identify this week as a universal moment when the brain suddenly “begins rapid growth.”
Neural connections, sensory processing, movement control and other brain functions continue developing throughout the second and third trimesters.
The Eyelids Formed Much Earlier
The original guide says the eyebrows and eyelids are formed during Week 22.
ACOG places initial eyelid formation much earlier, within Weeks 9 through 12.
At Week 22 the eyelids are still closed, while Mayo Clinic highlights visible eyebrows and scalp hair.
Testicular Descent Is a Gradual Process
Mayo Clinic states that in a male fetus the testes have begun moving downward toward the scrotum during Week 22.
This is not a process that begins and completes within one week. Testicular descent continues through later fetal development.
The Sitting Advice Needs More Flexible Wording
The original guide recommends keeping the knees higher than the hips.
Current ACOG guidance emphasizes good lower-back support, supportive footwear, careful lifting and changing positions rather than one universal knee-to-hip angle.
If standing for a prolonged period causes discomfort, ACOG suggests resting one foot on a stool or box to reduce strain on the lower back.
How Big Is the Fetus at Pregnancy Week 22?
The fetus continues gaining size rapidly during the second half of pregnancy.
The NHS gives an approximate Week 22 length of 27.8 centimeters from head to toe.
Mayo Clinic gives a crown-to-rump measurement of approximately 19 centimeters, or 7.5 inches.
Mayo's approximate weight is 460 grams, or about 1 pound.
Eyebrows and Scalp Hair at Pregnancy Week 22
Hair development becomes increasingly visible during this stage.
Mayo Clinic specifically identifies visible eyebrows and scalp hair as a Week 22 developmental feature.
ACOG also places visible eyebrows within the broader Weeks 21 through 24 developmental period.
The scalp hair is still very fine and should not be imagined as thick, mature newborn hair.
The eyebrow area is increasingly visible around the developing eyes.
Fine scalp hair becomes increasingly apparent.
The eyelids remain closed while the eyes continue developing beneath.
The fetal face continues becoming increasingly recognizable.
Are the Eyelids Forming at Week 22?
The eyelids are not newly forming during Week 22.
ACOG places eyelid formation much earlier in pregnancy, during Weeks 9 through 12.
During this stage, the eyelids remain closed while the eyes and surrounding facial structures continue maturing.
Later in pregnancy the eyelids gain the ability to open and close.
Brain Development During Pregnancy Week 22
The fetal brain continues developing rapidly throughout the second trimester, even though Week 22 is not identified as one single starting point for rapid brain growth.
The nervous system helps coordinate increasingly strong kicks, turns and sucking-related movements.
Sensory systems are also maturing as the fetus responds to the environment within the uterus.
Brain and nervous-system development will continue throughout the remainder of pregnancy and after birth.
Male Reproductive Development at Week 22
If the fetus is male, Mayo Clinic states that the testes have begun moving downward toward the scrotum by Week 22.
This process is called testicular descent.
It occurs gradually and continues during later pregnancy.
The exact timing of different stages can vary, so Week 22 should not be interpreted as a deadline for completed descent.
Female Reproductive Development at Week 22
If the fetus is female, Mayo Clinic describes the uterus and ovaries as being in place and the vagina as developed by this stage.
These structures will continue growing and maturing along with the rest of the fetal body.
External fetal sex may sometimes be visible on ultrasound, but visibility depends on fetal position and scan quality.
Fetal Movement During Pregnancy Week 22
Movement generally becomes stronger during Weeks 21 through 24.
ACOG describes increasingly strong kicks and turns during this period.
You may notice kicks, stretches, rolling, tapping or shifting sensations.
Leg movement may now feel clearer and stronger.
The fetus continues rolling and changing position.
Hands and arms continue moving toward the face and body.
Movement patterns differ between fetuses and between pregnancies.
Lung Development at Pregnancy Week 22
The fetal lungs continue developing during Week 22.
The NHS describes the fetus as doing breathing practice inside the uterus.
These are breathing-like movements rather than breathing air.
Oxygen still comes through the placenta and umbilical circulation.
The lungs require substantial further development before they can function independently after birth.
Swallowing Amniotic Fluid at Week 22
The NHS notes that the fetus swallows small amounts of amniotic fluid during this stage.
This provides practice for the developing digestive and swallowing systems.
Material eventually accumulates in the bowel and contributes to meconium, the dark sticky stool passed after birth.
This does not mean amniotic fluid functions like ordinary food. Fetal oxygen and nutrient supply continues primarily through the placenta.
Fetal Skin, Lanugo and Body Fat
The fetal skin remains relatively thin and wrinkled during Week 22.
ACOG places development of fat beneath the skin within Weeks 21 through 24.
Fine lanugo covers the body and helps hold protective vernix against the skin.
The fetus still has far less body fat than a full-term newborn. Substantial fat accumulation takes place later in pregnancy.
Fingerprint and Footprint Ridges Continue Developing
ACOG describes formation of ridges on the fetal hands and feet during Weeks 21 through 24.
These ridges eventually contribute to unique fingerprint and footprint patterns.
This development occurs alongside continued maturation of the skin, hands, fingers, feet and toes.
Pregnancy Week 22 Development Timeline
The fetus continues gaining substantial size during the second trimester.
Fine eyebrow hair is increasingly noticeable.
Fine fetal scalp hair is apparent but remains immature.
Kicks and turns may become increasingly obvious.
Breathing-like practice movements occur while placental oxygen transfer continues.
Internal reproductive structures continue their developmental changes.
Maternal Changes During Pregnancy Week 22
The uterus continues growing upward beyond the level of the belly button.
Your abdomen may become increasingly prominent and the additional weight of the growing uterus can change your center of gravity.
This shift can place extra strain on the muscles and joints supporting the lower back.
Stretch marks and other second-trimester skin changes may also become more noticeable.
Where Is the Uterus at Pregnancy Week 22?
Around Week 20 the top of the uterus generally reaches approximately the level of the belly button.
By Week 22, it normally continues extending farther upward.
Healthcare professionals may monitor uterine growth using fundal height, measured from the pubic bone to the top of the uterus.
Exact position varies between pregnancies and should not be judged using a rigid home measurement.
Back Pain During Pregnancy Week 22
Back discomfort is common during pregnancy.
ACOG explains that the growing uterus shifts the body's center of gravity and stretches abdominal muscles.
This changes posture and increases the amount of work required from the back muscles.
Additional body weight can also increase stress on muscles and joints.
How to Sit More Comfortably During Pregnancy
Current ACOG guidance recommends sitting in a chair that provides good back support.
A small cushion or lumbar support behind the lower back may improve comfort.
Keep your feet comfortably supported and avoid staying in the same position for very long if it causes stiffness or discomfort.
There is no universal medical rule that the knees must always be higher than the hips during pregnancy.
Standing for Long Periods During Pregnancy
Prolonged static standing can contribute to back discomfort for some pregnant people.
ACOG advises that if you need to stand for a long period, resting one foot on a low stool or box can help take some strain off the lower back.
Changing positions and wearing supportive footwear can also improve comfort.
Routine pregnancy generally does not require bed rest or unnecessary activity restriction.
Safer Lifting and Back Protection
When lifting something from the floor, ACOG recommends bending the knees, squatting and keeping the back relatively straight.
Avoid bending forward from the waist while keeping the knees straight.
Heavy lifting may need to be limited depending on your symptoms, occupation and individual pregnancy circumstances.
Ways to Ease Pregnancy Back Pain
Use a supportive chair or a small cushion behind the lower back.
Comfortable footwear with appropriate support may reduce strain.
Appropriate physical activity can strengthen supporting muscles.
Side sleeping with pillows around the knees or abdomen may improve comfort later in pregnancy.
ACOG notes that carefully used heat or cold may also help sore back muscles.
Discuss persistent or significant pain with your healthcare professional rather than relying only on self-treatment.
Weight Gain During Pregnancy Week 22
Continued weight gain is expected during many healthy pregnancies, but there is no single Week 22 number that applies to everyone.
Recommended weight gain depends partly on your prepregnancy BMI, whether you are carrying one fetus or multiples and individual health circumstances.
Your prenatal care professional can assess weight trends in the context of the entire pregnancy rather than one isolated weekly number.
Stretch Marks at Pregnancy Week 22
The NHS notes that stretch marks may become increasingly noticeable around this stage.
They commonly appear on the abdomen, thighs or breasts as the body changes.
Stretch marks are harmless and usually become less noticeable after pregnancy.
No cream or oil can guarantee that stretch marks will be prevented. Moisturizer can still help dry or itchy skin feel more comfortable.
Possible Pregnancy Week 22 Symptoms
The uterus continues extending upward as fetal growth progresses.
Postural changes and the growing uterus may strain the lower back.
New lines may appear on the abdomen, breasts or thighs.
Digestive changes may continue causing reflux or indigestion.
Slower digestion may continue during the second trimester.
Pregnancy hormones can continue affecting skin and maternal hair.
Healthy Choices During Pregnancy Week 22
Eat a Balanced Diet
Continue choosing vegetables, fruits, protein foods, whole grains and other nutrient-rich foods.
Stay Hydrated
Adequate fluids support circulation, digestion and general wellbeing.
Keep Moving When Appropriate
For many uncomplicated pregnancies, regular pregnancy-appropriate physical activity can help support strength and mobility.
Protect Your Back
Use supportive posture, comfortable footwear and safe lifting techniques.
Avoid Alcohol and Smoking
Continue avoiding alcohol, tobacco and recreational drugs during pregnancy.
Follow Medication Guidance
Do not stop prescribed medication or change supplements without discussing the change with an appropriate healthcare professional.
Prenatal Care Around Pregnancy Week 22
Continue attending your scheduled prenatal appointments.
Your healthcare professional may monitor blood pressure, weight, uterine growth and other aspects of the pregnancy.
If your detailed anatomy ultrasound has not yet been completed, your healthcare team can advise whether further imaging or follow-up is needed.
Questions about movement, persistent back pain or new symptoms can also be discussed during prenatal care.
What Might an Ultrasound Show at Pregnancy Week 22?
By Week 22, fetal anatomy is substantially more recognizable than in early pregnancy.
The head, spine, limbs, heart and abdominal structures may be examined depending on the clinical reason for the scan.
Fine facial details and fetal movement may also be visible.
Fetal sex may sometimes be identified if the position allows, but ultrasound sex determination should not be treated as guaranteed.
Pregnancy Week 22 and Your Estimated Due Date
Pregnancy Week 22 is based on gestational age, conventionally counted from the first day of the last menstrual period.
Our Pregnancy Due Date Calculator can help estimate an expected delivery date using relevant pregnancy dating information.
A due date remains an estimate rather than a guaranteed date of birth.
Clinical dating and ultrasound information may also be used by your healthcare professional when appropriate.
What Happens After Pregnancy Week 22?
Pregnancy Week 23 brings continued neurological, skin and movement development.
Mayo Clinic identifies rapid eye movements as a Week 23 feature.
ACOG also describes formation of hand and foot ridges that later create fingerprints and footprints during this general developmental period.
The lungs continue developing while fetal movement remains active.
Pregnancy Tools You May Find Useful
Estimate your expected delivery date from relevant pregnancy dating information.
Estimate your current gestational week using an appropriate pregnancy starting date.
Estimate a possible conception date or range while recognizing natural biological variation.
See approximately how much estimated time remains until your expected due date.
When Professional Healthcare Guidance Is Important
Week-by-week pregnancy information provides general education but cannot diagnose complications or determine whether fetal development is normal.
Contact a healthcare professional for heavy bleeding, fluid leakage, fever, significant abdominal pain or other symptoms that concern you.
ACOG recommends professional assessment for severe back pain or back pain lasting more than about two weeks.
Back pain associated with fever, burning during urination or vaginal bleeding also needs medical evaluation because other causes may need to be ruled out.
Pregnancy Week 22 FAQs
What happens during Pregnancy Week 22?
During Pregnancy Week 22, fetal eyebrows and scalp hair become visible, movements continue strengthening, lungs continue developing and the fetus keeps gaining length and weight.
How big is the fetus at 22 weeks?
The NHS describes the fetus as around 27.8 centimeters head-to-toe, while Mayo Clinic gives a crown-to-rump length of about 19 centimeters and a weight of around 460 grams or 1 pound.
Are eyebrows visible at Pregnancy Week 22?
Yes. Mayo Clinic specifically identifies visible eyebrows and scalp hair as Week 22 developmental features.
Does the brain suddenly begin rapid growth at Week 22?
Brain development is ongoing and important throughout pregnancy, but current major week-by-week references do not identify Week 22 as the single point when rapid brain growth begins.
Do the testes descend at Pregnancy Week 22?
Mayo Clinic states that in the male reproductive system the testes have begun moving downward toward the scrotum at Week 22. Testicular descent is a gradual process that continues later in pregnancy.
Can I feel stronger fetal movement at Week 22?
Many pregnant people feel increasingly obvious movement during this stage, but movement strength and timing vary between pregnancies.
Is the uterus above the belly button at Week 22?
The uterus generally continues rising above the level of the belly button after about 20 weeks, although exact fundal position varies.
Is back pain common during Pregnancy Week 22?
Back pain is common in pregnancy as the growing uterus shifts the center of gravity, changes posture and increases strain on muscles and joints.
Should my knees be higher than my hips when sitting during pregnancy?
There is no universal pregnancy rule requiring the knees to be higher than the hips. Current guidance emphasizes good back support, comfortable posture, supported feet and changing position regularly.
What happens during Pregnancy Week 23?
During Pregnancy Week 23, rapid eye movements become a clearer sleep-related feature, fingerprint and footprint ridges continue developing and fetal movement remains strong.
Medical References and Further Reading
The updated Week 22 information on this page uses established medical and public-health references to provide current context alongside the original material.
Mayo Clinic:
Fetal Development: The Second Trimester
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists:
How Your Fetus Grows During Pregnancy
Next: Pregnancy Week 23
During Pregnancy Week 23, rapid eye movements become a more clearly described sleep-related feature, fetal movement remains strong and fingerprint and footprint ridges continue developing.
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