22 Weeks Pregnant With Twins: Symptoms, Development & Ultrasound

Key Takeaways

• At 22 weeks, each twin is around 9-11 inches long and weighs approximately 400 grams, although their size and weight may differ.
• Your twins are becoming more active and developing their hearing, vision, muscles, and other important abilities.
• A growing belly, stretch marks, backache, swelling, heartburn, and fatigue can be common with a twin pregnancy.
• Eat a balanced diet rich in protein, iron, calcium, fibre, fruits, vegetables, and fluids to support your nutritional needs.

At 22 weeks pregnant with twins, your babies are growing quickly, becoming more active, and developing important organs and senses, while your body may be feeling the extra demands of carrying two babies. You may notice a growing bump, increased movements, backache, heartburn, or more tiredness as your pregnancy progresses.

This stage can bring plenty of questions, especially about what’s normal and how your babies are developing. In this article, we’ll cover 22-week twin pregnancy symptoms, baby growth and development, prenatal care, nutrition, and tips to stay comfortable.

The Growth of the Babies at 22 Weeks

Within the babies, if the previous week focused more on the core parts of survival and procuring energy, this week begins to shift its attention towards perceiving the environment and making head and tail of it.

The senses receive a boost in their development, as the eyes start increasing their strength and the ability to discern different sounds begins to manifest in the ears as well. The womb does seem quieter when compared with the outside world, due to all the covering and protection it has. However, twins at 22 weeks gestation can hear a lot of sounds that exist within your body, right from the heartbeats to the rushing flow of blood, your voice and humming sounds, and a few external sources as well (1).

Remember that moment every parent talks about when their little one reached out and grasped their finger tightly, never to let it go? You will experience the beauty of that moment, and from more than one baby, whose foundation begins from this week. The brain starts testing out the muscular strength and its capacities, causing babies to close their fists and grip anything they can lay their hands on. This could even be their umbilical cords or the surface of the uterus, all of which is natural.

Most babies still tend to look very gaunt around this time, because their skin is thin and even a little translucent. But over the coming months, the fat deposits on their body begin to increase and the skin stretches itself properly, turning your babies into cute puddles of love.

What Is the Size of the Babies?

Continuing our long-held tradition of comparing babies with fruits as a reference to their size, the 22nd week would put them at par with a nice coconut. Most babies tend to be around 9-11 inches in length by this week and their weight hits the 400-gram mark quite easily (2) (3). Twins and triplets will be comparatively smaller than these values, and as long as your doctor deems it fine, you’re all good.

Common Bodily Changes

The 22nd week of pregnancy with multiples inside your belly is filled with a bunch of random developments that can all be unique in their own way, with some being highly welcome.

1. Belly Button Changes

As your uterus continues to expand with two growing babies, the increasing pressure on your abdomen may push your belly button outward, turning an “innie” into an “outie.” While this change can look surprising at first, it is usually temporary, and your navel generally returns to its usual appearance after delivery (4).

2. Skin and Hair Changes

Hormonal changes may give you the familiar pregnancy glow, with increased natural oil production making your skin appear smoother (5). You may also notice thicker, faster-growing hair. However, this growth can extend to other areas of the body too. If unwanted hair becomes bothersome, stick to pregnancy-safe hair-removal methods.

3. Changes in Sexual Desire

For some women, the second trimester brings an increase in sexual desire, and week 22 may be a comfortable time for intimacy. In an uncomplicated pregnancy, sex is generally considered safe, although you may need to adjust positions as your belly grows. If your healthcare provider has advised you to avoid intercourse, follow their guidance (6).

Symptoms of Twin Pregnancy at 22 Weeks

Most of the symptoms that you would experience this time around won’t be any different from what you’ve been experiencing all this while. Some might be stronger, while others might tone down from the earlier intensity.

1. Stretch Marks

With twins, your abdomen may expand considerably, making stretch marks more noticeable. They can appear on your belly, breasts, hips, thighs, or other areas where the skin is stretching. Their appearance varies from person to person. While creams and moisturisers can help keep the skin comfortable and hydrated, stretch marks may not be completely preventable (7).

2. Increased Vaginal Discharge

You may notice more vaginal discharge at 22 weeks, sometimes requiring panty liners or frequent changes of underwear. Normal pregnancy discharge is usually thin or milky and does not have a strong unpleasant smell. However, persistent bleeding, watery fluid leakage, a foul smell, itching, or unusual colour should be discussed with your healthcare provider.

3. Swollen Hands and Feet

The expanding uterus can put pressure on blood vessels and affect circulation, leading to mild swelling in your feet, ankles, hands, or fingers. This can become more noticeable after standing for long periods or later in the day. Resting, changing positions, and keeping your feet elevated may help (8).

4. Breathlessness, Dizziness, and Fatigue

As your uterus grows with two babies, it can put additional pressure on surrounding organs, including the diaphragm. You may occasionally feel short of breath, dizzy, or more tired than usual. Move slowly when changing positions, stay hydrated, and take regular breaks. Sudden or severe breathlessness, fainting, chest pain, or significant swelling should be reported to your healthcare provider promptly.

Twin Pregnancy – Belly at 22 Weeks

The development of 22 weeks twins in pregnancy will make your belly a lot larger than it usually is at this stage. The discomfort around it will be present, along with chances of increased backache and trouble walking around normally.

Twin Pregnancy at 22 Weeks – Ultrasound

For any 22 weeks pregnant with twins, pictures from the ultrasound would be wrapped up by this week. While some mothers might enjoy seeing their babies move around, others might witness them lying still inside. Don’t worry; your babies also tend to sleep a lot, and you can always hear their heartbeat going strong.

What to Eat?

A balanced diet is especially important at 22 weeks with twins, as your body needs extra nourishment to support two growing babies. Here are some simple food choices to include in your daily meals (9):

• Fibre-rich foods: Include vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and fruits regularly to support digestion and help prevent constipation.
• Calcium-rich foods: Milk, curd, yogurt, paneer, cheese, and other dairy products can help meet your increased calcium needs during pregnancy.
• Iron-rich foods: Include leafy greens, lentils, beans, eggs, lean meats, and fortified cereals to support healthy blood production. Take iron supplements only as recommended by your healthcare provider.
• Fruits and vegetables: Aim for a colourful mix to provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
• Include protein with each meal: Eggs, pulses, beans, dairy products, fish, chicken, tofu, and nuts can help support the growth and development of both babies.
• Stay well hydrated: Drink water regularly throughout the day, especially when increasing your fibre intake, as adequate fluids can help keep bowel movements comfortable.
• Continue your prenatal vitamins: A pregnancy-specific vitamin and mineral supplement can help fill nutritional gaps, but supplements should be taken according to your doctor’s advice.

Pregnancy Care Tips

Yet again, you don’t need to do anything out of the ordinary to take care of yourself in the 22nd week of the pregnancy.

Dos

• Engage in safe, gentle exercises such as walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga, if your doctor approves them. These can help strengthen your back, maintain mobility, and support your energy levels.
• Maintain good hand hygiene by washing your hands regularly and keeping your nails trimmed.
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and support healthy digestion.
• Keep up with all scheduled prenatal appointments, scans, and tests, as twin pregnancies may require closer monitoring.
• Get enough rest and take regular breaks whenever you feel tired or uncomfortable.

Don’t’s

• Avoid very spicy foods if they trigger heartburn or indigestion. Spicy foods do not directly harm your babies, but they can worsen these uncomfortable symptoms.
• Avoid using a heating pad in areas that are close to the uterus.
• Don’t perform strenuous or high-impact exercises unless your doctor has specifically cleared them for you.
• Don’t skip meals or go for long periods without eating, as regular nutritious meals can help maintain your energy levels.

What You Need to Shop For?

With your development and the baby’s growth going hand-in-hand, shop for the following when you are carrying twins at 22 weeks.

• Baby wipes, as well as a good first-aid kit
• Bra pads or maternity bras to control breast leakage
• Extra comfortable and supportive maternity clothing, especially if your current wardrobe feels tight.
• A double stroller to prepare for when your twins arrive.

When to Consult a Doctor?

Contact your doctor or maternity team promptly if you notice:

• Vaginal bleeding or persistent spotting
• Sudden gush or continuous leakage of fluid
• Regular or painful contractions
• Persistent abdominal, pelvic, or lower back pain
• Severe headache or vision changes
• Sudden swelling of the face or hands
• Severe shortness of breath or chest pain
• Fainting or severe dizziness
• Fever or signs of infection
• Severe vomiting or inability to keep fluids down
• Noticeable decrease or change in your babies’ movements

FAQs

1. Can twins born at 22 weeks survive?

Twins born at 22 weeks face extremely low survival rates. At this gestational age, their chances of survival are very slim, and if they do survive, they may face significant health challenges. The chances of survival and overall health outcomes improve significantly with each passing week of gestation (10).

2. What is the earliest delivery of twins?

The earliest delivery of twins considered viable for survival typically occurs around 24 to 25 weeks of gestation. Before this point, the chances of survival for both twins are pretty low, and they may require intensive medical care in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

3. What is full term for twins?

Full-term twins are generally around 37 to 38 weeks of gestation. Twins born at this stage are more likely to be fully developed and have a better chance of thriving without extensive medical interventions. However, it’s important to note that the exact definition of full term may vary depending on medical guidelines and individual circumstances.

4. What does 22 weeks pregnant with twins movement feel like?

Movement may feel like gentle flutters, taps, bubbles, or small kicks. As the babies become stronger, their movements may become easier to recognise, although you may not always be able to tell which baby is moving.

5. What do twins look like at 22 weeks?

At 22 weeks, your twins have a recognisable baby-like appearance, with developing facial features, hair, eyebrows, and eyelashes. If you’re curious about their development or your growing bump, 22 weeks pregnant with twins pictures can give you a general visual reference, although every pregnancy looks different.

When you are 22 weeks pregnant with twins, foetal development seems to occur at lightning speed, sometimes overwhelming you. Know that it is an entirely natural process, and you will develop the skills necessary to mother your children properly in good time.

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Sources References

1. NHS – Bump

2. NHS – Week 22

3. Mayo Clinic – Fetal development: The 2nd trimester

4. Cleveland Clinic – Why Your Belly Button Changes When You’re Pregnant

5. Cleveland Clinic – Is Pregnancy Glow a Real Thing?

6. PubMed Central – Changes in Sexual Desire in Women and Their Partners during Pregnancy

7. NHS – Stretch marks in pregnancy

8. NHS – Swollen ankles, feet and fingers in pregnancy

9. Apollo Cradle – Second Trimester Diet Plan for Healthy Pregnancy

10. Cleveland Clinic – Youngest Surviving Premature Twins Born at Cleveland Clinic Make Strides After 138 Days in NICU