What to expect at 23 weeks pregnant: Baby size & movements
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Created with Natasha Lowe Osho, MD, Obstetrician-Gynecologist, USA
At 23 weeks pregnant, your fetus is growing stronger. Now roughly the size of a grapefruit, your baby is developing key features like lung maturity and active movements. You may experience a rounder belly, increased appetite, and mild back pain as your body continues to adapt.
At 23 weeks pregnant, you’re moving closer to the third trimester, and your baby is growing rapidly. You may notice an increase in kicks and rolls as the baby strengthens their muscles. For many women, week 23 is marked by a more pronounced bump, along with symptoms like backaches or swelling. Let’s dive into what’s happening in week 23, including baby development, symptom management, and helpful health tips.
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23 weeks pregnant symptoms
As your baby grows, you may experience new or changing symptoms. Common symptoms at 23 weeks include:
- Increased movements: Baby’s kicks and rolls known as quickening become more frequent and noticeable.
- Back pain: The growing belly and shift in posture can cause mild back discomfort.
- Braxton Hicks contractions: Some women feel irregular, painless uterine contractions as the body practices for labor.
- Swelling (edema): Mild swelling in your feet, ankles, or hands may occur due to increased blood volume and fluid retention.
- Nasal congestion: Pregnancy rhinitis may persist, causing mild stuffiness or discomfort.
👉Find out more: 22 Weeks pregnant: Fetal development, body changes, and key insights
Your body at 23 weeks pregnant
At week 23, your uterus is growing upward, and your belly may feel rounder and firmer. The normal weight gain in the second trimester is 0.5 to 1 lb per week based on your pre-pregnancy weight. Using a pregnancy weight gain calculator can help you monitor healthy weight gain.
Your body is working harder to support your growing baby, which can lead to back pain, fatigue, and occasional swelling. Staying active, resting when needed, and maintaining good posture can help manage these symptoms.
23-week pregnant belly
Your belly at 23 weeks is likely more defined, and you may feel a stronger connection with your baby as their movements become more frequent. While the size of your bump can vary based on factors like body type and muscle tone, a growing belly is a sign that your baby is developing healthily.
Baby development at 23 weeks of pregnancy
At 23 weeks, your baby is becoming more active, practicing essential movements like kicking, stretching, and even hiccuping. Their lungs are developing, and while they are not yet ready to breathe air, they are practicing rhythmic movements. Skin is beginning to form a protective layer, and their sense of hearing is sharpening, allowing them to respond to sounds like your voice or music.
23-week baby size
The 23-week-old baby size is about 11.5 inches long and weighs around 1 pound, similar to the size of a grapefruit. This growth spurt supports the baby’s increasing strength and coordination.
23-week ultrasound
A 23-week ultrasound may provide a detailed look at your baby’s development, including their organs, spine, and limbs. If you’ve had a recent anatomy scan, this ultrasound might be a follow-up to check growth and position. You may also notice your baby moving during the scan, which is an exciting way to connect with them.
Tests to expect at 23 weeks pregnant
At 23 weeks pregnant, your healthcare provider may conduct a few tests and screenings to track both your health and your baby’s development:
- Blood pressure monitoring: Regular checks to monitor for high blood pressure, which could signal potential complications such as preeclampsia.
- Fetal heartbeat: Your doctor may listen to your baby’s heartbeat to ensure healthy development. You may also be asked about fetal movements to ensure the baby is active.
- Urine test: A urine sample is typically tested to check for signs of protein or sugar, which could indicate conditions like preeclampsia or gestational diabetes.
- Blood tests: Depending on your health history, your provider might conduct tests to check for anemia or screen for infections, including HIV or syphilis.
- Ultrasound (if needed): If not done earlier, an ultrasound may be performed to check the baby’s growth and development, as well as the position of the placenta and amniotic fluid levels.
These routine tests at 23 weeks help ensure that both you and your baby are on track for a healthy pregnancy. Be sure to talk to your provider if you have any questions or concerns.
👉Find out more:
24 Weeks pregnant: From tiny kicks to big developments
25 Weeks pregnant: How your baby’s growing and what you should know
Health tips and self-care at 23 weeks pregnant
- Stay active: Engage in low to moderate-impact activities, including strength/resistance training walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga to reduce discomfort and improve circulation.
- Hydrate and elevate: Staying hydrated and elevating your feet can help minimize swelling.
- Use pillows for support: A pregnancy pillow can make sleeping more comfortable by supporting your belly and back.
- Moisturize daily: Keeping your skin hydrated can help with itchiness caused by stretching.
Track your symptoms with Femia and get tailored
health advice right on your phone
Questions from the Femia community
My belly is not very big, should I be worried?
Belly size varies greatly depending on body type, muscle tone, and how your baby is positioned. If you’re attending regular prenatal checkups and your healthcare provider is not concerned, there’s no need to worry. Always discuss any concerns during your visits.
How to sleep with a baby bump?
Sleeping on your left side with a pregnancy pillow supporting your belly and placed between your knees can help improve comfort and circulation. Avoid lying flat on your back as it can compress blood flow to your baby.
Why do I feel mild contractions?
Irregular, painless contractions called Braxton Hicks are normal as your body practices for labor. Stay hydrated and rest if they feel uncomfortable, and consult your provider if they become regular or painful.
Is it normal to have swollen feet at this stage?
Mild swelling is common due to increased blood volume and fluid retention. Elevate your feet, wear supportive shoes, and avoid standing for long periods to reduce swelling.
The bottom line
At 23 weeks pregnant, your baby is growing rapidly and becoming more active. Your belly is more prominent, and you may experience symptoms like back pain, swelling, or mild contractions. Focus on hydration, balanced nutrition, and rest to support your health as you prepare for the third trimester.
References
- “23 Weeks Pregnant: Symptoms, Baby Development & Tips.” BabyCenter, www.babycenter.com/pregnancy/week-by-week/23-weeks-pregnant.
- “Week 23 of Pregnancy: Symptoms, Baby Development & More.” What to Expect, www.whattoexpect.com/pregnancy/week-by-week/week-23.aspx.
- “23 Weeks Pregnant: Baby Development, Symptoms & Tips.” NHS, www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/week-by-week/1-to-12/23-weeks/.
- “Pregnancy Week 23: What to Expect.” American Pregnancy Association, www.americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/week-by-week/23-weeks-pregnant/.
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