Everything you need to know about week 23 of pregnancy

23rd week of pregnancy (week 23)

Welcome to the 23rd week of pregnancy! You are now in the middle of your second trimester, and your baby is growing at an impressive rate. At 23 weeks pregnant, you are about six months along – and you are probably already feeling the strong movements of your little miracle on a regular basis.

Many pregnant women experience this phase with mixed feelings: the body shows clear changes, while at the same time the emotional bond with the baby grows. It is a special time of preparation – physically, mentally, and organisationally.

The 23rd week of pregnancy at a glance

Your baby at 23 weeks pregnant:

• Size: approx. 29–30 cm, weight: about 500–600 g.
• The skin becomes thicker and increasingly stores fat in order to regulate body temperature independently later on.
• The lungs begin with their first breathing exercises – an important training for life outside the womb.
• Hearing ability improves: your baby can now clearly hear voices, music and sounds.
• It is showing a more active sleep-wake rhythm and is moving more vigorously.
  
  

Your body in the 23rd week of pregnancy:

• Your womb now extends clearly above your belly button – your baby bump is clearly visible.
• Water retention, back pain, calf cramps and shortness of breath are common accompanying symptoms.
• The skin is also becoming increasingly tight – make sure to use gentle care to prevent stretch marks.
• You may find yourself sweating more often – your metabolism is running at full speed.
  
  

Development of the baby in the 23rd week of pregnancy

In the 23rd week of pregnancy, your baby continues to develop at a rapid pace. The layers of skin are gradually thickening, and the fat tissue beneath the skin is increasing – important for later regulation of body temperature. The immune system is also making progress and is beginning to build up its own defences.

The internal organs, especially the lungs, are now diligently practising breathing movements. Even though your baby is still being supplied via the placenta, this training is essential for later independence after birth.

The sense of hearing is now so well developed that your baby can recognise familiar voices – it may even respond to music or the mother’s voice. Many babies suck their thumbs during this stage – an important step in coordinating mouth and swallowing movements.

The movements are becoming more powerful: kicking, turning, grasping – and all this can now not only be felt in the belly, but sometimes even seen from the outside.

Your body in the 23rd week of pregnancy

With each week, your body continues to change. At 23 weeks pregnant, the uterus is about the size of a football and presses on surrounding organs such as the bladder, stomach, or lungs – which is why frequent urination, heartburn or shortness of breath often occur.

Back pain or circulatory fluctuations may also occur more frequently now. The shift in your centre of gravity means that your back is under greater strain – so make sure to maintain good posture, wear comfortable shoes, and take occasional breaks to rest.

The skin on your abdomen is being stretched more, which can cause feelings of tightness. Gentle care of your belly with natural oils or creams can help you maintain your skin’s elasticity and prevent stretch marks.

Many women now feel an increased need for rest and inner preparation for the birth. Take the time you need – your body is accomplishing something tremendous right now.

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Tips for the 23rd week of pregnancy

• 🧘‍♀️ Movement & relaxation in balance: Regular, gentle exercise such as pregnancy yoga, walks, or light swimming helps to relieve back pain, stimulate circulation, and strengthen you mentally. Make sure not to overexert yourself – your body now needs as much rest as it does movement.
• 🥗 Nutrition: Targeted intake of nutrients: In the 23rd week of pregnancy, pay particular attention to a balanced diet with sufficient iron, calcium, vitamin D and fibre. These not only support your well-being, but also promote your baby’s growth – especially for bones, teeth and blood formation.
• 💧 Drink plenty, use less salt: Due to the increased blood flow and your baby’s growth, you need more fluids – at least 1.5–2 litres of water per day. If you experience water retention, it can help to reduce salty foods somewhat and to put your feet up from time to time.
• 🛏️ Sleeping position & positioning: If sleeping is difficult: Position yourself with pillows on your side, ideally the left, to improve blood flow to the placenta. A nursing pillow or support pillow can also help to relieve your back.
• 📅 Start preparing slowly: Now is a good time to start thinking about birth preparation, parental allowance, initial baby essentials, or signing up for a prenatal class – all in a relaxed manner, without any pressure. Small steps bring structure and anticipation.
  
  

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The most common questions about the 23rd week of pregnancy

What happens in week 23 of pregnancy?

In week 23 of pregnancy, the foetus continues to grow, gains weight, and practises important functions such as hearing, grasping, and breathing.

How big is the baby at 23 weeks pregnant?

Your baby now measures around 30 cm (crown to heel) and weighs about 550 g. It is actively swimming in the amniotic fluid and practising movements.

What does it mean if I feel strong baby movements?

Active movement is a good sign – your baby is practising coordination, strengthening muscles, and responding to its environment.

Can anything already be said about the gender?

Yes, in many cases, the ultrasound at 23 weeks of pregnancy reliably shows whether it will be a girl or a boy – speak to your doctor.

What helps with fatigue in week 23 of pregnancy?

Fatigue can be caused by iron deficiency or an increase in blood volume. Pay attention to your diet, iron intake, and ensure you take sufficient breaks.

Which symptoms are normal in the 23rd week of pregnancy?

Back pain, dizziness, calf cramps and fatigue are typical symptoms. If in doubt, please consult a doctor.

What is vernix caseosa and what is its function?

The vernix caseosa protects your baby's skin from the amniotic fluid and is an important protective layer in the womb.

From when would my baby have a chance of survival?

The chances of survival outside the amniotic sac increase from week 24 of pregnancy. However, in week 23, it would still be a medical emergency.

How much weight gain is normal at 23 weeks pregnant?

A moderate weight gain is normal – usually 5 to 7 kg since the beginning of pregnancy, depending on constitution and baby.

What is the purpose of the check-up in week 23 of pregnancy?

During the examination, the doctor checks the growth of the foetus, the amount of amniotic fluid, the heartbeat and the position of the placenta.

What is the baby doing in the 23rd week of pregnancy?

It practises movements, develops the inner ear, responds to sounds, and perceives its surroundings through senses such as touch and hearing.

When should I start with a checklist for the birth?

From week 23 of pregnancy, it's a good time to start with a checklist for the hospital, mum, baby, and formalities – for example, the basic equipment.

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