Day 159 of 280, second trimester
You are 22 weeks and 5 days
The occasional dizzy spell is common in pregnancy and not a sign that anything is wrong.
121 days until your due date
As your body works hard to nourish your baby, you may feel dizzy now and then. It's common when you stand up suddenly: even though your blood supply has increased, getting up quickly makes blood rush to your legs, reducing the supply to your brain and making you feel lightheaded.
Dizziness can also be a sign of anemia. You make more red blood cells in pregnancy, but your blood volume rises even more, so proportionally there are fewer red cells and your blood count drops. You may also run short of iron, in which case you'll be prescribed supplements. As well as dizziness, anemia can cause tiredness and breathlessness. Low blood sugar can cause dizziness too, which regular snacks help prevent.
Dizziness is most likely down to normal pregnancy changes, but tell your doctor so you can be examined and have any blood tests needed. If you feel dizzy when you're out, or need a seat on a bus or train, always tell someone; most people will be understanding.
As a matter of fact
Milk and birth weight
Not all pregnant women follow the healthy eating advice.
Pregnant women are well informed about calcium-rich foods for strong bones, but a recent study found that women who rarely drank milk had smaller babies than those who drank the recommended three 8-oz glasses a day.
Ask a Mum
I don't feel like socializing. Should I force myself to go out?
I remember that feeling well! It's normal to want to hide away when you're too tired to socialize, but it's worth making the most of your free time before the baby comes. You may not feel like going out, but once you do, you'll probably be glad, and it helps keep friendships going.
I chose activities carefully: early evenings or weekend get-togethers, cafés rather than bars, and friends over for lunch or dinner with everyone bringing a dish. I knew I might not get to the movies or theater for a while after the birth, so I planned some great trips, and weekend matinées are good if you're too tired in the evening. When I was really too tired, I caught up with friends on the phone. If you can't face crowds, see one friend at a time at home, and prioritize the people who really matter.
Appointments and key dates around now
- Whooping cough vaccineUsually around 20 weeks, best before 32 weeks
Read the full 22 weeks pregnant guide
This is general information based on NHS guidance, not medical advice, and every pregnancy is different. Talk to your midwife or GP about anything that worries you. If your baby's movements slow down or change, or you have bleeding, severe pain or leaking fluid, call your maternity unit straight away. In an emergency, call 999.