23 weeks pregnant
👶 Baby Development at 23 Weeks
23 Weeks Pregnant – Your baby is building fat stores and their appearance is becoming more like a newborn.
- 📏 Size of a grapefruit (~29 cm from head to heel)
- ⚖️ Weight: About 500–550 grams
- 🧴 Skin is no longer see-through – pigmentation starts
- 💪 Baby’s body is gaining muscle and fat
- 🧠 Brain continues developing vital connections
- 👃 Nostrils are open, baby may start “breathing” amniotic fluid
- 👂 Hears sounds better – may respond to voices, music, or touch
🤱 Your baby may start developing sleep cycles – alternating between activity and rest.
🤰 Symptoms at 23 Weeks Pregnant
Your bump is more prominent, and you may feel a mix of comfort and occasional discomfort.
Common Symptoms This Week:
- Braxton Hicks contractions (painless tightening)
- Swollen ankles or feet
- Tingling in hands (carpal tunnel syndrome)
- Skin changes – darker patches or stretch marks
- Fatigue during the day
- Increased vaginal discharge
💧 Elevate your feet during rest to manage swelling and support circulation.
Detailed Guide : 23 Weeks Pregnant Symptoms: Coping With Swelling, Sleeplessness & Baby’s Growing Kicks
🥗 What to Eat at 23 Weeks Pregnant
Your body needs more iron, protein, and healthy fats to support rapid baby growth.
✅ Healthy Foods This Week:
- Dates, jaggery, raisins – boost iron and energy
- Chickpeas, tofu, paneer, dal – high protein
- Fresh coconut water – prevents dehydration and cramping
- Pumpkin seeds, almonds, walnuts – essential fats and magnesium
- Bitter gourd, carrots, tomatoes – Vitamin A & blood sugar control
🥘 Dinner idea: Chapati + palak paneer + beetroot salad + curd + 1 date
❌ Avoid:
- High-sodium snacks (namkeen, pickles)
- Undercooked eggs or meat
- Packaged fruit juices (high sugar)
🧘♀️ Safe Exercises for 23 Weeks
Stay active to relieve stress and support digestion.
Movement Recommendations:
- 🚶 25–30 min walking every day
- 🧘 Gentle yoga for back, hips, and pelvic muscles
- 🧎♀️ Cat-cow pose for spine flexibility
- 🧘♂️ Shoulder rolls and wrist stretches
- 💆 Light prenatal massage with approval
🎧 Try listening to calming music while walking – your baby hears it too!
🧾 Week 23 Checklist
- Track baby kicks regularly
- Keep feet elevated when sitting
- Carry healthy snacks during outings
- Start applying stretch mark cream twice daily
- Drink 8–10 glasses of water
- Attend upcoming prenatal checkups
💬 Tip of the Week
“Your baby is learning your voice and routine — talk to them, sing, or simply place your hand on your bump and connect.”
— Dr. Ayesha Rahman, Maternal Care Expert
❓FAQ – 23 Weeks Pregnant
Q: How do I know if baby movements are normal?
A: You should feel flutters or kicks regularly, especially after meals or when resting. Note any changes and consult your doctor if unsure.
Q: Can I dye my hair or get a pedicure?
A: It’s best to use ammonia-free hair dyes and avoid strong chemical treatments. Pedicures are safe with clean tools.
Q: My belly button is sticking out – is it normal?
A: Yes! It’s a temporary change due to growing uterus pressure and skin stretching.
🔗 Internal Links
- 🔙 Back to Week 22 – Baby’s Brain Is Growing Fast
- 👉 Next: Week 24 – Baby’s Lungs Start Developing!
- 📘 Pregnancy Safe Skin Care – How to Manage Stretch Marks
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