Weeks 22 to 26 of Your Pregnancy: Care Instructions

Your baby's lungs are getting ready for breathing. Your baby may respond to your voice. Your baby likely turns less, and kicks or jerks more. Jerking may mean that your baby has hiccups.

To ease discomfort, such as back pain

• Change your position often. Try not to sit or stand for too long.

• Get some exercise. Things like walking or stretching may help.

• Try using a heating pad or cold pack.

To ease or reduce swelling in your feet, ankles, hands, and fingers

• Take off your rings.

• Avoid high-sodium foods, such as potato chips.

• Prop up your feet, and sleep with pillows under your feet.

• Try to avoid standing for long periods of time.

• Do not wear tight shoes.

• Wear support stockings.

Kegel exercises to prevent urine from leaking

Squeeze your muscles as if you were trying not to pass gas. Your belly, legs, and buttocks shouldn't move. Hold the squeeze for 3 seconds, then relax for 5 to 10 seconds.

Add 1 second each week until you can squeeze for 10 seconds. Repeat the exercise 10 times a session. Do 3 to 8 sessions a day. If these exercises cause you pain, stop doing them and talk with your doctor.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

Current as of: July 10, 2023

Content Version: 14.0

Care instructions adapted under license by your healthcare professional. If you have questions about a medical condition or this instruction, always ask your healthcare professional. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information.