In the Week 23, your baby is
the size of a Mango
In Week 23 of pregnancy, your baby is growing quickly and may be moving more! Expect visible changes, increased energy, and a deeper connection with your little one.
Week 23 marks a significant milestone in your pregnancy journey. Your baby is growing rapidly, and you may feel more pronounced movements as they explore their surroundings. You may also notice changes in your body as it adapts to support your growing baby.
At 23 weeks pregnant, you may experience a range of symptoms as your body continues to change and adapt to your growing baby. Some common symptoms include
Braxton Hicks contractions
You may feel your uterus tightening and relaxing, which are known as Braxton Hicks contractions. These are normal and help prepare your body for labour.
Swollen feet and ankles
Due to increased blood flow and pressure from your growing uterus, you may notice swelling in your feet and ankles, especially at the end of the day.
Backache
As your baby grows and your centre of gravity shifts, you may experience backache or pain in your lower back.
Stretch marks
Your skin may stretch to accommodate your growing baby, causing stretch marks on your belly, breasts, or thighs.
Constipation
The growing uterus pressures the stomach, slowing digestion and leading to constipation and heartburn.
At 23 weeks, your baby is approximately the size of a papaya. Here's what's happening with your baby's development:
Organ Development
Your baby's lungs develop, practising breathing motions, although the lungs are not yet ready to function independently. The baby's muscles are getting stronger and moving regularly, exercising their fingers, toes, arms, and legs. White blood cells are starting to develop to help fight infections.
Physical Features
Your baby’s skin remains wrinkled and translucent, covered in fine lanugo. Fingerprints and footprints are set, and facial features, hair, eyebrows, and eyelids are forming.
Weight of the Foetus
At this stage, your baby weighs a little over 450 grams. The average weight gain for the mother at 23 weeks is about 5 to 7 kg, though this can vary.
Movement of the Baby
You may feel more pronounced kicks and turns as the baby becomes more active. The baby may also have hiccups, causing jerking movements.
At 23 weeks, your baby is growing stronger every day. Keep embracing this beautiful journey—you're doing an amazing job, mama!
As your pregnancy progresses, your body undergoes various changes to support your growing baby. Here are some of the changes you may experience during week 23:
Breast Changes
Your breasts are growing faster, preparing for milk production. You may notice that your breasts feel fuller, heavier, and more sensitive.
Hair, Skin, and Nails
Your hair may become thicker and grow faster due to hormonal changes. Your skin may show stretch marks as it stretches to accommodate your growing baby. Your nails may also grow faster during pregnancy.
Respiratory and Cardiovascular System
Increased blood flow can lead to swelling in your feet and ankles, and you may experience a higher heart rate as your body works harder to pump blood to support your growing baby.
Vaginal Discharge
Increased vaginal discharge is normal during pregnancy. It helps to keep the vagina clean and free from infection. However, consult your doctor if you notice unusual odour, colour, or itching.
Uterus Size and Position
Your uterus is about the size of a football and continues to grow upward and outward. As your uterus expands, you may feel pressure on your bladder, leading to frequent urination.
Placenta Position
The placenta supports your baby's growth and development by providing nutrients and oxygen through the umbilical cord.
Constipation and Haemorrhoids
Hormonal changes and the growing uterus may cause constipation, heartburn, and indigestion. Increased pelvic pressure can also lead to haemorrhoids, causing discomfort or itching.
Contraction care
Practice deep breathing and visualization techniques to stay focused during contractions.
Prep for labour
Explore different positions such as walking or squatting to find movement that supports you.
Support circle
Labour can be demanding, surround yourself with loved ones for support and encouragement.
Labor check-up
If your labour feels abnormal let the doctor examine you first for a correct diagnosis
Childbirth prep
Enrol yourself in prenatal courses to learn different labour stages and what to expect.
During week 23, your doctor may recommend specific tests and scans to monitor your baby's growth and development. These may include:
Regular Check-ups
Your doctor will monitor your blood pressure, weight gain, and uterus size to ensure your pregnancy progresses normally.
Gestational Diabetes Screening
Typically done between weeks 23 and 28, this blood test checks for gestational diabetes, a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy.
Fetal Monitoring
If not already done, your doctor may advise a detailed ultrasound to monitor your baby's growth, anatomy and movements, especially if you have a high-risk pregnancy. This can help assess your baby's well-being and identify any potential issues.
Percutaneous umbilical blood sampling (PUBS)
Also called cordocentesis, PUBS examines fetal blood from the umbilical cord to detect disorders. It is performed after 18 weeks when amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling yields inconclusive results.
It's best to avoid sleeping on your back during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. Lying on your back can put pressure on your vena cava, the large vein that carries blood from your lower body to your heart, which can reduce blood flow to your uterus and cause dizziness. Try sleeping on your side, preferably your left side, with a pillow between your legs for added comfort.
Yes, it's normal to experience Braxton Hicks contractions, also known as false labour, starting from the second trimester. These contractions are your body's way of preparing for actual labour. If you're unsure whether you're experiencing Braxton Hicks or true labour contractions, contact your doctor.
At 23 weeks, you may feel your baby move several times a day. However, there's no set number of movements you should feel at this stage. Every baby is different, and some may be more active than others.
Generally, it's safe to travel during the second trimester of pregnancy, which includes week 23. However, it's essential to take certain precautions and consult with your doctor before making any travel plans.
Yes, exercise is safe and beneficial during pregnancy, including at 23 weeks. It can ease discomforts, boost mood, and prepare your body for labor. Opt for low-impact activities like walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga, and avoid high-impact or contact sports. Always consult your doctor before starting or adjusting your routine.
Yes, mood swings are a common experience during pregnancy, including at 23 weeks. Hormonal changes, physical discomforts, and the emotional demands of preparing for motherhood can all contribute to mood fluctuations. It's essential to take care of your emotional well-being by getting enough rest, practising relaxation techniques, and seeking support from loved ones or a mental health professional if needed.
During week 23 and throughout your pregnancy, focus on eating a balanced, nutrient-rich diet to support your health and your baby's development. Ensure you're getting enough folic acid, iron, and calcium. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Avoid raw or undercooked meats and high-mercury fish, and limit caffeine and sugar intake.
Back pain is common in pregnancy. Ease it by maintaining good posture, wearing supportive shoes or a maternity belt, using heat/cold packs, doing gentle exercises, and sleeping with proper support. Consult your doctor for severe pain.
