22 Weeks Pregnant Baby Hits 1 Pound Braxton Hicks Bigger Feet Gentle Self Care Guide

Hey mama, can we just take a moment to acknowledge something amazing? You're 22 weeks along, and that little one inside you just hit the 1 pound mark!

I know, I know some days it feels like you're just trying to get through without feeling completely lost or overwhelmed. That's totally normal, and you're doing better than you think.

Your Baby This Week: A Tiny Miracle Getting Stronger

Wait, How Many Months Is This Again?

If you're anything like most mamas I know, you've probably lost track of the whole weeks-to-months thing (seriously, why is pregnancy math so confusing?). You're about 5 months along now, with roughly 4 months to go.

And honestly? It's okay if that feels both forever and no time at all. Those mixed feelings? Totally normal.

Your Baby's Amazing Growth

Picture this: your little one is now about the size of a small doll and officially over 1 pound! Next time you're at the grocery store, hold a 1 pound bag of sugar that's your baby's weight right now. Pretty incredible, right?

Here's what's happening with your little one that might make you feel a bit more connected to this whole mysterious process:

Those tiny hands are getting strong. Your baby's grip is developing, and they might even grab onto their umbilical cord (don't worry it's tough enough to handle it). Sometimes I think about how they're literally holding on in there, just like you're holding on through all the changes.

They're starting to "see" your world. Even with closed eyelids, your baby can sense light and darkness. If you're feeling brave, try shining a flashlight on your belly your little one might respond! It's one of those sweet ways to feel more connected when everything feels so abstract.

They know your voice. This one always gets me your baby can hear your heartbeat, your voice, even your stomach gurgling (embarrassing but true!). Every time you talk to them or play music, they're listening.

Your Body: The Changes Nobody Warns You About

Um, Why Don't My Shoes Fit?

Okay, let's talk about something that might be freaking you out a little: your feet are probably getting bigger. Like, actually bigger not just swollen.

Before you panic that you'll need a whole new shoe wardrobe (though honestly, if that gives you an excuse for new shoes, go for it!), here's what's happening:

That hormone relaxin the one that's supposed to help with delivery doesn't just loosen up your pelvis. It's loosening ligaments everywhere, including in your feet. So your foot bones spread a bit, and voilà  you might go up a half or whole shoe size.

What helps: Get yourself some comfortable, supportive shoes. Skip the heels for now (trust me, your balance is already questionable these days). Think of it as your body asking for a little more comfort and support and that's perfectly okay to give yourself.

The Belly Touchers Are Coming

Can we talk about this for a hot second? People touching your belly without asking?

Look, I get that your bump is adorable and people are excited, but your body is still YOUR body. If random touching makes you uncomfortable, that's completely valid. You're already sharing your body with your baby you don't owe anyone else access to it.

Some gentle ways to handle this:

A simple "I'd prefer if you didn't touch my belly, thanks" works

Step back when you see hands approaching

Use humor: "Careful, the baby kicks back!"

Remember: Setting boundaries doesn't make you mean. It makes you a mama who's already protecting her space and her baby.

Those "Practice" Contractions (And the Worry They Bring)

If you've been feeling some irregular, painless tightening in your belly first, breathe. You're probably experiencing Braxton Hicks contractions, and they're completely normal.

Think of them as your uterus doing practice runs for the big day. They're not efficient enough to actually deliver your baby (only real labor contractions can do that), but they can definitely make you wonder "Is this it?!"

When to call your doctor: If they become regular, painful, or you're worried. When in doubt, make the call. That's what they're there for, and no question is too small when it comes to you and your baby.

This Week's Gentle Reminders

Your Body Is Incredible (Even When It Doesn't Feel Like It)

Research shows that when you exercise during pregnancy, your baby might actually score higher on intelligence tests later. But please hear me: this isn't about pressure to be perfect. It's about celebrating that even gentle movement a walk around the block, some prenatal yoga, whatever feels good is doing amazing things for both of you.

Magnesium Might Be Your New Best Friend

Feeling extra tired or getting leg cramps? You might need more magnesium. It's found in things like pumpkin seeds, almonds, and cashews. Talk to your doctor about whether you're getting enough sometimes the simplest solutions help the most.

About Those 3D Ultrasounds

I know those keepsake ultrasound places look tempting (those photos are so cute!), but experts recommend sticking to medical ultrasounds only. I know it's hard when you just want to see your baby and feel more connected to what's happening.

Learning to Breathe Through It All

Here's something that might help with all the overwhelm: learning some simple relaxation techniques now. Not because you need to be "fixed," but because you deserve tools that help you feel calmer.

Try this: Sit somewhere quiet, close your eyes, and picture somewhere peaceful. Then, starting from your toes, consciously relax each muscle group. Breathe slowly, and maybe pick a simple word like "calm" to repeat when you exhale.

Even two minutes can help. And honestly? This skill will serve you well long after baby arrives.

Sweet mama, you're doing something incredible. Your body is growing a human being while you're trying to navigate work, relationships, and probably a thousand worries about whether you're doing everything "right."

Here's the truth: there's no perfect way to be pregnant. There's just your way, with all its messiness and beauty and moments of wondering what the heck you've gotten yourself into.

You're exactly where you need to be. Take it one day one breath at a time.

Want more gentle guidance for your pregnancy journey? We're here for all those moments when you need someone who gets it.