To help you understand what’s going on with both you and your growing baby, we’ve put together a detailed guide on the 23rd week of pregnancy.
Your baby measures approximately 28.9 cm from head to toe and is likely to weigh around 500g.
Your baby’s skin is still transparent but is now coated with a waxy substance called vernix caseosa, which protects it from the amniotic fluid.
In previous weeks, your baby has been practising breathing in your womb while the lungs develop. Your baby is successfully swallowing small amounts of the amniotic fluid, which will usually stay in the bowels and then come out after birth.
The development of your baby’s senses is progressing, and for the last couple of weeks, this has enabled your baby to distinguish your voice and heartbeat, as well as differentiate between light and darkness. Notable distinctions are emerging between your baby’s lips, eyelids, and eyebrows.
Your baby’s limbs have now reached a balanced proportion. In the coming weeks, you’ll increasingly feel your baby’s kicks, and you’ll also start observing movements in your belly.
You will experience a variety of physical changes throughout the stages of pregnancy as your body adapts. Symptoms can include fatigue and difficulties in sleeping. It’s common to get headaches, and backaches.
Consider incorporating gentle exercise into your daily routine if you haven’t already. Walking is a perfect exercise. Now is a good time to tone your pelvic floor muscles to prevent leakage during laughter, sneezing, or coughing.
Take care of your health by getting enough rest. A pregnancy pillow can help you sleep better when your belly is growing.
Regular blood and urine tests will be conducted by your doctor to monitor your health and identify any potential problems. If you have concerns, this is the perfect time to discuss them with your healthcare provider.
If you haven’t already, it’s time to inform your employer about your pregnancy. Once you do, you’ll have maternity rights and can attend antenatal appointments during paid work time.
This week’s guide provides an overview of what to expect for week 23 of your pregnancy.
