Your health at 22 weeks of pregnancy

At 22 weeks, you might start to feel the occasional Braxton Hicks contractions—your body’s way of practicing for the real thing! These "practice" contractions are usually irregular, mild, and painless, but they can catch you off guard. It’s completely normal, and it’s just your uterus gearing up for the big day but if you are concerned, reach out to your healthcare provider for advice. Some natural ways to help with Braxton Hicks if they become uncomfortable is to try shifting positions, staying hydrated, or taking a warm bath to help ease the sensations.

Now is a great time to incorporate exercises that help strengthen your body and prepare for labor. Focus on prenatal yoga or pilates, which are excellent for building core strength and improving flexibility without putting too much strain on your body. Exercises that target your pelvic muscles, like squats and lunges, can help improve endurance and prepare your body for the physical demands of childbirth.

Remember: Always listen to your body and modify movements, as needed, to keep things comfortable!  And Always speak to your healthcare provider about incorporating new exercises into your routine. 

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Practical Tip: Start researching your maternity leave options. Understanding how much time you can take off and planning financially for the postpartum period will help reduce stress later. Look into your company’s policies, and explore options like using maternity and paternity leave, vacation days, or unpaid leave if necessary. Creating a financial plan now can give you peace of mind, so you can focus on enjoying your time with your newborn once they arrive.