Week 22 Pregnancy

Second Trimester

Last reviewed: July 2026

22 weeks pregnant at a glance

You are in the second trimester.
Your baby is roughly the size of a papaya.
Routine care.
Every pregnancy is different, so don't worry if your experience varies slightly.

You are 22 weeks pregnant and in your second trimester. Your baby is about the size of a papaya. This week's key development: Looking Like a Baby. NHS note: Routine care.

This page is for general pregnancy planning and date guidance only. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Pregnancy dates are estimates and can change after a scan or advice from your midwife, GP, or maternity team. Always speak to a qualified healthcare professional if you have symptoms, concerns, or questions about your pregnancy.

Week 21

Week 23

Baby's Development

Your baby is about the size of a papaya.

Looking Like a Baby — Your baby now looks very much like a newborn in miniature, with fully formed features. They're able to grip with their hands and may even grab their own umbilical cord. Your bump is becoming unmistakable, and strangers may be noticing for the first time.

Papaya

Approx. 27.8cm

Your Symptoms

Swollen hands and feet
Back pain
Protruding belly button

Every pregnancy is different. You may experience all, some, or none of these symptoms — and that's completely normal. If anything concerns you, speak to your midwife.

NHS Appointments

Routine care. Your midwife will measure your fundal height (bump size) from now on.

Practical Advice for Week 22

Nutrition

Continue vitamin D daily.
Eat protein-rich foods at every meal for your baby's rapid growth.
Complex carbohydrates provide sustained energy — wholegrain pasta, bread, and rice.
Include probiotic-rich foods (yoghurt, kefir) for digestive health.

Exercise

Supportive shoes make a big difference for swollen feet and back pain.
Avoid exercises that involve sudden twisting movements.
Swimming continues to be ideal — weightlessness feels wonderful.
If your midwife recommends it, a support belt can help with bump weight.

Wellbeing

Swollen hands and feet are common — remove rings if they're getting tight.
Back pain can be managed with good posture and supportive pillows.
A protruding belly button is perfectly normal and will go back after birth.
If swelling is sudden or severe (especially in face/hands), contact your midwife immediately.

Preparation

Your midwife will start measuring fundal height (bump size) at appointments.
Start thinking about what you'll need for the hospital — a bag list helps.
Research local breastfeeding support groups — they're invaluable after birth.
If you're self-employed, research Maternity Allowance eligibility.

Tip of the Week

Wear comfortable, supportive shoes to help with foot swelling and back pain.

Frequently Asked Questions for Week 22

How many months is 22 weeks pregnant?

At 22 weeks pregnant, you are roughly 5 months pregnant. Remember that pregnancy is typically measured in weeks rather than months for clinical accuracy.

What size is the baby at 22 weeks?

At 22 weeks, your baby is roughly the size of a papaya (about 27.8cm). Your baby now looks very much like a newborn in miniature, with fully formed features. They're able to grip with their hands and may even grab their own umbilical cord. Your bump is becoming unmistakable, and strangers may be noticing for the first time.

What are the common symptoms at 22 weeks pregnant?

Common symptoms at this stage include swollen hands and feet, back pain, protruding belly button. Remember that every pregnancy is unique, and it's normal to experience different symptoms.

Is 22 weeks in the second trimester?

Yes, 22 weeks falls within the second trimester.

Are there any NHS appointments at 22 weeks?

Routine care. Your midwife will measure your fundal height (bump size) from now on.