Week 22: Everything We Touch

Welcome to week 22, Mama! You’ve made it to the end of another month of pregnancy! Though still in the second trimester, your body’s hormones are beginning to loosen the pelvic joints and cause an exaggerated curve in the lower (lumbar) spine. These postural changes impact pressure placed on different nerves throughout your body. Some people experience carpel tunnel syndrome (burning or tingling pain) or numbness in their fingers during pregnancy as a result. Numbness may be relieved by improving posture or elevating the affected side, but some symptoms may linger until postpartum. In addition, your uterus is up to your belly button this week, and you should be able to notice your little baby bump growing! For some women, this may be very exciting. For others, you may feel very nervous about all the changes happening. It is understandable to feel nervous! Pregnancy and parent-hood are life-altering events. For those with present partners, it feels good to seek comfort and emotional support. For those without partners, seek out a trusted, close friend. Include people in your pregnancy journey that you can go to for support and guidance, whom you may look up to as role models of parenthood. They’ve been in your place and can empathize with what you are going through.

Your baby is now 22 weeks! The following sense to develop is touch! Your baby can feel the difference between your gentle, comforting touch and firm pressure from position changes. She knows when you’re moving and when you’re sitting still. You may notice, when lying down at night, that your baby’s movements increase in response to pressure on the side of your abdomen that is touching the mattress. Alternatively, you may notice her kicks settle when you place your hand on your tummy throughout the day. Now that she can sense touch let her become familiar with your comforting presence.