Week 23 of pregnancy: Between gut feelings & baby kicks. Read now!

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. In week 23, you are about six months pregnant – and you are probably already feeling your little miracle’s strong movements regularly.

Many expectant mothers experience this phase with mixed emotions: the body is showing clear changes, while at the same time the emotional bond with the baby is growing. It is a special time of preparation – physically, mentally, and organisationally.

The 23rd Week of Pregnancy at a Glance

Your baby in week 23:

Size: around 29–30 cm, weight: about 500–600 g.
The skin becomes thicker and increasingly stores fat, so it will later be able to regulate its own body temperature.
The lungs are starting their first breathing exercises – important training for life outside the womb.
The sense of hearing is improving: your baby can now hear voices, music, and sounds clearly.
It is showing a more active sleep-wake rhythm and is moving more and more strongly.

Your body in week 23:

Your uterus now clearly extends above the navel – your baby bump is clearly visible.
Water retention, back pain, calf cramps and shortness of breath are common side effects.
Your skin is also becoming increasingly tight – make sure to use gentle skincare to help prevent stretch marks.
You may find yourself sweating more often – your metabolism is working at full speed.

Baby’s Development in Week 23

During 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 under the skin is increasing – important for later temperature regulation. The immune system is also making progress and begins to build its own defences.

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

The sense of hearing is now developed enough that your baby can recognise familiar voices – maybe it already reacts to music or the mother’s voice. Many babies suck their thumbs at this stage – an important step in coordinating mouth and swallowing movements.

The movements are becoming stronger: kicking, turning, grasping – and now this can not only be felt inside the bump, but sometimes even seen from the outside.

Your Body in the 23rd Week of Pregnancy

Your body continues to change every week. In week 23, 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 are common.

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

The skin on your belly is being stretched more, which can cause feelings of tightness. Gentle care of your bump 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. Give yourself the time you need – your body is accomplishing something amazing right now.

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Tips for the 23rd Week of Pregnancy

🧘‍♀️ Balance Between Movement & Relaxation: Regular, gentle exercise such as pregnancy yoga, walks, or light swimming helps to relieve back pain, stimulate your circulation, and strengthen you mentally. Make sure not to overexert yourself – your body now needs as much rest as it does movement.
🥗 Nutrition: Targeted Nutrient Intake: 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 wellbeing but also promote your baby’s growth – especially for bones, teeth, and blood formation.
💧 Drink plenty, use less salt: Due to 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 a little and to put your feet up from time to time.
🛏️ Sleeping Position & Support: If sleeping becomes difficult: support yourself on your side with pillows, 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 Gradually: Now is a good time to start thinking about birth preparation, parental allowance, essentials for your baby, or signing up for antenatal classes – all at your own pace, without pressure. Small steps will bring structure and anticipation.

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The Most Common Questions About the 23rd Week of Pregnancy

What happens in the 23rd week of pregnancy?

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

How big is the baby in week 23?

Your baby now measures about 30 cm (crown to heel) and weighs around 550 g. It actively swims in the amniotic fluid and is 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 the sex of the baby already be seen?

Yes, in many cases the ultrasound in week 23 can reliably show whether it’s a girl or a boy – talk to your doctor.

What helps with tiredness in week 23?

Tiredness can result from iron deficiency or an increase in blood volume. Pay attention to your diet, iron intake, and make sure to take enough breaks.

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

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

What is vernix caseosa and what is its function?

Vernix caseosa protects your baby’s skin from the amniotic fluid and acts as an important protective layer in the womb.

From when would my baby have a chance of survival?

The chance of survival outside the womb increases from week 24. In week 23, however, it would still be a medical emergency.

How much weight gain is normal in week 23?

Moderate weight gain is normal – usually 5 to 7 kg since the start of pregnancy, depending on your constitution and the baby.

What is the check-up for in week 23?

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

What does the baby do in the 23rd week of pregnancy?

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

When should I start a checklist for the birth?

From week 23 onwards is a good time to start a checklist for the hospital, for mum, baby, and paperwork – for example, the baby’s first essentials.