Your Baby at 22 Weeks

A Closer Look at Week 22

Week 22 is a beautiful milestone for bonding, because your baby's hearing has sharpened to the point where they can distinguish your voice from other sounds. Studies using fetal heart rate monitoring have shown that babies recognise their mother's voice and respond to it with measurable changes in heart rate. Your voice, carried through the vibrations of your body, is the sound your baby hears most clearly and most frequently — it is literally the first voice they will ever know.

Your baby's grip strength is increasing significantly this week. The hands are now large enough and coordinated enough to grasp objects, and one of the most common things they grab is the umbilical cord. This is perfectly normal and does not cause any harm — the cord is protected by Wharton's Jelly and is flexible enough to withstand gentle tugging.

You may notice your belly button beginning to protrude or 'pop out'. This is caused by the expanding uterus pushing against the abdominal wall from the inside, pushing the navel outward. It is entirely cosmetic and will return to its normal position after delivery, though some women find it mildly uncomfortable if it rubs against clothing. A small bandage or silicone cover can help if it becomes bothersome.

This is an excellent time to start talking, reading, or singing to your baby. While they cannot understand words, the rhythm and melody of your voice are forming auditory memories that will provide comfort and familiarity after birth. Many parents report that songs or stories they shared frequently during pregnancy have a noticeable calming effect on their newborn.