Week 23 of Pregnancy
Second trimester
Baby is
about the size of a large mango
11.4 inches · 1.1 pounds
Baby this week
- •Hearing is fully developed—baby can recognize your voice and respond to sounds
- •Lungs are developing air sacs (alveoli) needed for breathing after birth
- •Skin is becoming less translucent and gaining more pigmentation
- •Brain growth accelerates significantly this week
- •Baby may respond to music and loud noises with movement
You this week
- •Increased appetite and possible food cravings
- •Braxton Hicks contractions (practice contractions) may start or increase
- •Continued lower back pain and pelvic pressure
- •Swelling in feet and ankles, especially later in the day
- •Possible shortness of breath as uterus expands
- •Sleep disruptions from physical discomfort or vivid dreams
This week's tips
- •Talk, sing, or play music for your baby—they're listening and building connections to your voice
- •Invest in a supportive pregnancy pillow to improve sleep quality and reduce back pain
- •Try prenatal yoga or water aerobics to ease physical discomfort without high impact
- •Elevate your feet when resting to help reduce swelling
- •Start discussing birth preferences and plans with your partner and care provider
Looking ahead
You're entering the final stretch of your second trimester. Over the next few weeks, you'll likely notice even more pronounced baby movements and should schedule your third-trimester glucose screening test.
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