Week 22

Second Trimester

A Face to Love

Baby's features are becoming beautifully detailed — eyebrows, lips, and eyelids are clearly visible. You're well into the second trimester.

This week's tip

💡 Your bump is growing fast — a belly support band can ease lower-back pressure on long days at work or while running errands.

Baby this week

🍈

About the size of

a papaya

Length

27.8 cm

Weight

430 g

Development

  • Eyebrows and eyelids are clearly formed.
  • Lips are more distinct and developed.
  • The inner ear is developed enough to help baby sense body position.
  • Grip is strong enough to grasp the umbilical cord.
  • Baby's brain is developing at a rapid pace.

How you might feel

  • Your bump is unmistakably visible.
  • Outie belly button may be appearing.
  • Increased vaginal discharge remains normal.
  • Some women notice stretch marks beginning to appear.
  • Back and hip pain may continue.

Things to do this week

  • Continue childbirth and parenting class research
  • Research baby gear: stroller, car seat, bassinet
  • Begin organizing space for baby if you have a nursery planned
  • Discuss maternity leave plan with your employer

When to contact your care team

This is general guidance, not medical advice.

  • Contact your care team if you notice any fluid leaking from the vagina — it could be amniotic fluid.

Partner tip

Begin the practical preparation together — baby registry, gear research, nursery planning. Sharing the load matters.