23 Weeks Pregnant: Week-by-Week Guide

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.

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

1. 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.
2. You may experience swelling in your feet and ankles. Elevating your feet at night or sitting in a cool foot bath can help.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. 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!

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