Your Pregnancy at Week 22

Hands and feet can start to become a little swollen from this point in, which there is usually nothing to worry about. Pop your feet up at the end of the day and make sure you wear comfortable shoes. If they get really swollen though you need to let your midwife know, as your blood pressure may be creeping up.

You will need to give your employer your MATB1 form soon and tell your boss you’re pregnant. This can be requested from your midwife and is needed to process your maternity pay. You can start this at any point from 29-weeks and are entitled to a year off from work, irrelevant of your length of service. However, getting paid past 39-weeks will depend on your length of service and your employer’s maternity leave policy.         

By week 22, most of your symptoms are directly related to the amount of space your little one now occupies inside of you. Here are some things you may experience this week.

Innie becoming an outie: Around this time, many expectant mums notice their belly button protruding outward as the uterus expands and pushes against the abdomen. This change is entirely normal and usually temporary.

Stronger nails: Pregnancy hormones can sometimes lead to stronger nails! Enjoy this perk of pregnancy, but keep in mind that these changes may not be permanent.

Thicker hair: Many pregnant women experience thicker, fuller hair during pregnancy due to hormonal changes. This is often attributed to increased levels of oestrogen, which prolongs the growth phase of hair.

Larger feet: As your body retains more fluid during pregnancy, it's not uncommon for your feet to swell and increase in size. This is typically temporary, so don’t feel like you need to run out and buy a whole wardrobe of new shoes!

Backache: As your body adjusts to accommodate your growing baby, you may experience leg cramps and backaches. These discomforts are often due to changes in your posture and the added weight of your uterus. Here’s how to ease pregnancy aches and pains.

Increased libido: Some women experience an increase in libido during pregnancy due to hormonal changes. However, others may experience a decrease or no change at all. Every woman's experience is unique.

Frequent nighttime wakings: As your pregnancy progresses, there are lots of things that can disrupt your sleep! The most common culprits include discomfort, frequent urination, and hormonal changes. Try to establishing a relaxing bedtime routine and invest in a good pregnancy pillow if you’re struggling to get comfy.

Crazy dreams: Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy can result in vivid and sometimes unusual dreams. This is a common phenomenon and is usually harmless. Here’s a guide to pregnancy dreams.

Unwanted hair growth: Some women may experience unwanted hair growth in areas such as the face, abdomen, or back. These changes are normal and often return to normal after childbirth.

Discuss the types of nappies you will use for your little one, once he or she is here. It's true, your baby isn't here yet; but one glance at the available options for a newborn can tell you this is something you should figure out, before you're gifted with a lot of reusable nappy supplies or storing your friends unopened packages of leftover throwaway nappies.

Talking with your partner, or with family and friends who've recently had a baby, about your choices is just the first step on a journey you never thought you would take. Because the average newborn will require about 10 to 12 nappy changes in a 24-hour period.

Don't forget to also schedule a maternity photoshoot this week, if you are hoping to have one. And take a side profile pregnancy picture.

Write in your pregnancy journal. In a few years, you'll look back and realise just how priceless this journal is!