Week 22

My Baby's Development

Your baby’s senses to learn about the world are developing daily. Taste buds start to form on the tongue. The brain and nerve endings are formed enough so that the fetus can start to feel touch. Your baby may experiment with this newly found sense of touch by stroking his or her face or sucking on a thumb, as well as feeling other body parts and seeing how they move.

Your baby's reproductive system continues to develop too. In boys, the testes begin to descend from the abdomen. In girls, the uterus and ovaries are in place and the vagina is developed.

My Body

Your body may soon notice your uterus practicing for delivery with irregular, painless contractions called Braxton Hicks contractions. You may feel a squeezing sensation in your abdomen. Don't worry. Your baby may be able to feel the contraction as it squeezes the uterus. Braxton Hicks contractions are not dangerous or harmful. If the contractions become more intense, painful or frequent, consult your health care provider immediately because painful and regular contractions may be a sign of preterm labor.