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23 Weeks Pregnant: Week-by-Week Guide
4 mins read

IN THIS ARTICLE – At this stage of your journey, new developments are beginning to unfold. Check out this week-by-week guide to find out what’s in store for your baby and your body in week 23 of pregnancy.

 

Your baby at 23 weeks pregnant | Week 23 pregnancy symptoms | 3 expert tips for a healthy and safe pregnancy | Week 23 checklist: How to plan your pregnancy | Join Enfamil Family Beginnings


 

 

  • What trimester is 23 weeks? Second trimester
  • How many weeks of pregnancy are left? 17 weeks
  • How many months is 23 weeks pregnant? You're in your sixth month.

With week 22 of your pregnancy complete, you’re on week 23. Enjoy it, as week 24 is on the horizon! 

One of the most exciting things about pregnancy is how many changes you’ll experience with your little one over the span of just 7 days! Here’s some tips and tricks to keep on top of all that’s happening.

Your baby at 23 weeks pregnant

What's happening in there

  • Your baby is the size of a papaya.
  • You’re about six months pregnant now. You're past the halfway mark of your second trimester.
  • The countdown continues: you’ve got 17 weeks to go!

What happens during the 23rd week of pregnancy?

  • A strong kick back: Your little one's kicks will be more pronounced.
  • I like to move it, move it: Your baby will move more overall.
  • Light up my life: Your baby may even respond to light this early in the game.

What should I be feeling at 23 weeks pregnant?

  • You may be feeling warmer than usual or more sensitive to temperature.
  • You may be feeling Braxton Hicks contractions. Known as “false labor,” these are occasional feelings of the uterus tightening.
  • You may have more sensitive eyes or even blurry vision.

How big is your baby at 23 weeks pregnant?

 23 Weeks Pregnant

Baby Weight

1.1 pounds

Baby Length

8 inches crow to rump

Baby Size

Comparable to a papaya

 

Week 23 pregnancy symptoms

During week 23 of pregnancy, your body is changing quickly. As your baby grows, you will too, and there are certain pregnancy symptoms you may experience at this time.

7 common week 23 pregnancy symptoms

  • Hot flashes tend to flare up, and pregnancy hormones are likely to blame. Keep a hand-held fan and cool water nearby, and do your best to avoid spicy foods and excess caffeine.
  • You may experience swelling in your feet and ankles. Elevating your feet at night or sitting in a cool foot bath can help.
  • Frequent urination is common in the second trimester. Keep an eye out for bathrooms and, if possible, avoid tight or constrictive clothing—stretchy pants are your friend. Try to avoid too many fluids right before bed if you’re getting up frequently at night.
  • At 23 weeks pregnant, pain caused by your growing belly and weight gain is typical. You may start to experience discomfort on the sides of your abdomen (known as round ligament pains) and in your rib cage as it expands to accommodate your bump.
  • Stretch marks are visible, and you may also start noticing a dark line running from your belly button to your pubic area. The line, called linea nigra, is yet another symptom driven by hormones—the same ones responsible for causing facial discolorations that are common during pregnancy. Most of these skin changes should improve or disappear after pregnancy.
  • You’re prone to gum swelling, tenderness, redness, and bleeding. Maintain good dental habits and visit your dentist for a checkup at some point during your pregnancy.
  • Getting a goodnight’s sleep may be challenging. Your bigger belly, leg cramps, congestion, and the frequent need to pee can make it difficult to get quality sleep. Try sleeping on your side, using a humidifier, and employing other pregnancy sleep strategies to catch those critical Zzs you and your baby need.

3 expert tips for a healthy and safe pregnancy

Being 23 weeks pregnant is an important time for you and your baby. Here’s some more expert-recommended advice on how to adjust to this new stage and keep you and your baby safe.

  1. Focus on folate: Spinach, kale, carrots, and red peppers are great natural sources.
  2. Iron (wo)man: Iron is a key nutrient to monitor, as your body is producing extra blood and your baby is beginning to store it in their own body. Aim for 27 mg a day.
  3. Monitor your blood pressure: Using a pharmacy or at-home blood pressure monitor is a good idea. Sudden spikes in blood pressure are important to watch for, as they may be a sign of preeclampsia. Talk to your doctor if you’re noticing spikes.

Week 23 checklist: How to plan your pregnancy

Knowing what to do week-by-week can help you feel prepared and alleviate stress. Add these new items to your to-do list this week. You’ve got this, mama!

To-Do Checklist
If you haven’t already, look into the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) to see what’s covered in your state.
Get some sun to boost mood and vitamin D.
Talk to your doc about gestational diabetes screening.

Learn more about your pregnancy, including pregnancy planning and pregnancy nutrition to feel prepared to continue this magical adventure. You’re armed with the facts, what to do, and now you can take time to connect with the little one growing inside you.

 With week 22 in the rearview mirror and week 23 going strong, look to the future and what's coming up in week 24!

Join Enfamil Family Beginnings

At 23 weeks pregnant, you’re more than halfway there. Start preparing for your new arrival with Enfamil Family Beginnings. It’s the perfect resource for new and expecting moms. Save on Enfamil products, track your bump and baby’s growth, and get helpful articles each week relevant to your journey. Join now for up to $400 in free gifts.

All information on Enfamil, including but not limited to information about health, medical conditions, and nutrition, is intended for your general knowledge and is not a substitute for a healthcare professional's medical identification, advice, or management for specific medical conditions. You should seek medical care and consult your doctor or pediatrician for any specific health or nutrition issues. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment, care, or help because of information you have read on Enfamil.