Week Twenty-Three Pregnancy

You Are

At 23 weeks into your pregnancy, you are well into your second trimester, and the size of your baby bump is becoming more obvious. In week 23, many pregnant women complain of increased hunger, back pain, leg cramps, and mild foot or ankle swelling. Your body getting ready for labor is also possible if your uterus stretches, which causes Braxton Hicks contractions.

Increased pressure on your lungs from your expanding belly can lead to shortness of breath, and your altered hormones can cause vivid dreams or changes in mood. To achieve a balanced diet, proper hydration, and light exercise alternatives such as prenatal yoga or walking can keep improved circulation and alleviate physical discomfort.

Your Baby

At 23 weeks, your baby is the size of a grapefruit, about 11 inches long and weighs more than a pound. Your baby’s skin is at this point very thin and transparent, but it will soon become thicker.

Your baby’s surfactant production guarantees that their lungs will work properly once they are born, which is an important stage in lung development. They are also improving their hearing ability, which helps them to differentiate and remember sounds such as your heartbeat and voice. As their muscles develop you may observe their movement becoming more noticeable.