Swollen feet, backaches, and a rapidly growing baby.
You’re 23 weeks pregnant! Your baby is growing quickly, getting stronger, and moving more each day. Your belly is expanding, and you might be feeling more noticeable kicks, rolls, and stretches! As your baby continues developing, your body is also adjusting, bringing new symptoms and changes.
Let’s explore your baby’s growth, changes in your body, and how to manage symptoms at 23 weeks pregnant.
What’s Happening to Your Baby?
At 23 weeks, your baby is about the size of a grapefruit (20-22 cm or 8-9 inches long, head to toe) and weighs around 500-600 grams (1.1-1.3 lbs). Your little one is developing organs, gaining weight, and becoming more aware of their surroundings.
Major Developments This Week:
Baby’s Movements Are Stronger & More Frequent! – Kicks, jabs, and rolls are more noticeable and may follow a pattern.
Skin Is Becoming Less Wrinkled! – More fat deposits are forming, making baby’s skin smoother.
Baby’s Lungs Are Developing! – Surfactant, a substance that helps the lungs work after birth, is starting to form.
Baby Can Hear Sounds Clearly! – Loud noises may make baby jump, and they recognize familiar voices.
Eyes Are Almost Fully Developed! – The retina is forming, and baby will soon be able to detect light changes better.
Taste Buds Are Functioning! – Baby can taste different flavors of amniotic fluid based on what you eat.
Heartbeat Can Be Heard with a Stethoscope! – Your doctor or even a partner pressing their ear to your belly may be able to hear baby’s heartbeat.
What’s Happening to Your Body?
At 23 weeks pregnant, you might notice a bigger baby bump, feel stronger baby movements, and experience new pregnancy symptoms.
Common Symptoms at 23 Weeks Pregnant:
Feeling More Baby Kicks! – Baby’s movements are becoming stronger and more regular.
Growing Baby Bump! – Your uterus is about 1.5 inches above your belly button.
Back Pain – Your growing belly is affecting posture, leading to lower back pain.
Leg Cramps – Muscle cramps in the legs may happen, especially at night.
Round Ligament Pain – Stretching or pulling pain in the lower belly as your uterus expands.
Increased Appetite – Baby is growing rapidly, so you may feel hungrier.
Swelling in Feet & Ankles (Edema) – Mild swelling due to fluid retention.
Shortness of Breath – Your uterus is pressing on your lungs, making deep breaths harder.
Braxton Hicks Contractions – Mild, irregular “practice” contractions may start this week.
Dry or Itchy Skin – As your belly stretches, skin may feel dry or itchy.
More Visible Veins (Spider Veins & Varicose Veins) – Increased blood circulation makes veins more noticeable.
How to Cope with Week 23 Pregnancy Symptoms
1. Enjoying & Tracking Baby Movements
Baby’s movements may follow a pattern now.
Take time to bond with baby by feeling kicks and talking to them.
If movements slow down significantly, contact your doctor.
2. Easing Back Pain
Maintain good posture and avoid slouching.
Use a pregnancy pillow for support while sleeping.
Do gentle stretches or prenatal yoga to ease back pain.
3. Preventing Leg Cramps
Stretch your legs before bed to reduce cramping.
Eat calcium and magnesium-rich foods like dairy, bananas, and nuts.
Massage your legs or apply heat if cramps occur.
4. Handling Round Ligament Pain
Stretch gently or try prenatal yoga to relieve tension.
Change positions slowly to avoid sudden discomfort.
Use a belly band for extra support if needed.
5. Coping with Swelling in Feet & Ankles
Elevate your feet when sitting or lying down.
Wear comfortable shoes and avoid tight socks.
Drink plenty of water to reduce water retention.
6. Reducing Shortness of Breath
Sit and stand up straight to give your lungs more space.
Take deep breaths and slow down when needed.
Sleep with extra pillows to elevate your upper body.
7. Managing Braxton Hicks Contractions
Stay hydrated – Dehydration can trigger contractions.
Change positions – Moving around or resting may help them go away.
Contact your doctor if contractions become painful or regular.
8. Soothing Dry or Itchy Skin
Use a gentle moisturizer to keep skin hydrated.
Wear loose, breathable clothing to reduce irritation.
Drink plenty of water to support skin health.
What Should You Be Doing in Week 23?
Since you’re over halfway through pregnancy, here’s what to focus on this week:
1. Keep Attending Prenatal Appointments
Your doctor will check your uterus size, baby’s heartbeat, and overall health.
You may discuss glucose screening tests for gestational diabetes (usually done between 24-28 weeks).
2. Keep Taking Your Prenatal Vitamins
Ensure your vitamin contains 400-800 mcg folic acid for brain and spinal cord development.
A vitamin with DHA & Omega-3s supports baby’s brain growth.
3. Eat a Healthy Pregnancy Diet
Include protein-rich foods like eggs, chicken, and tofu.
Eat calcium-rich foods like yogurt, milk, and cheese.
Stay hydrated – Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily.
4. Track Your Baby’s Movements
Start noticing baby’s movement patterns throughout the day.
Movements will become stronger and more predictable in the coming weeks.
5. Research Childbirth & Parenting Classes
Consider signing up for prenatal classes about labor, delivery, and newborn care.
Some hospitals offer virtual or in-person classes.
6. Plan for Maternity Leave
Look into your workplace’s maternity leave policies and benefits.
If you plan to return to work after birth, start thinking about childcare options.
7. Start a Pregnancy Journal or App
Document how you feel each week.
Take weekly bump photos to track your progress.
Final Thoughts
You’re 23 weeks pregnant, and your baby is growing bigger, stronger, and more active! This is an exciting time, especially as you feel more movement and prepare for upcoming prenatal visits.
Your baby is developing tiny features, reacting to sound, and preparing for big growth ahead. Symptoms like back pain, heartburn, and leg cramps may still happen, but you’re doing an amazing job!
