Week 22
Baby
This week baby weighs in at 15 ounces and nearly 11 inches long. The cartilage in his nose is growing, giving it a more defined shape. His eyes are completely formed, although the iris still lacks some necessary pigmentation. His tongue is starting to produce taste buds, and his brain has formed the nerve endings that will allow him to have a sense of touch. His skin is still pretty wrinkled this week, all of the extra skin will soon be filled with sweet baby chubbies!
Mommy
All of the extra weight you are putting on may start to put a strain on your back. Don't forget to try a pregnancy pillow to help offset this weight while you sleep. Also, try to wear low heeled, or even flat shoes as much as possible to avoid causing any extra stress on your back. If your stretch marks are starting to show, be sure to apply plenty of lotions or creams to keep them tame, and avoid itchy skin. Aloe vera is good to help prevent the itch. Also, cocoa butter is known to help with the stretch marks, by keeping the skin moisturized, it can make them less apparent. Not all mothers will get stretch marks, but if you do, don't be disappointed, it is very common.