Pregnancy Week 23: Your Baby Is Becoming More Responsive
Pregnancy week 23 is a stage when many babies begin responding more clearly to sounds and movement.
Your baby continues developing quickly, and you may begin noticing stronger movements throughout the day.
During this stage of pregnancy, many women begin feeling more connected to their baby as movements become easier to notice. Kicks, stretches, and gentle rolls inside the womb can become a regular part of daily life.
The second trimester continues to be an important time for your baby’s development as body systems mature and prepare for life after birth.
Baby Development at Week 23
At twenty-three weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of a grapefruit.
Your baby’s hearing continues improving, allowing the baby to respond to voices and sounds from outside the womb. Your baby may become familiar with the sound of your voice as well as other voices heard frequently during pregnancy.
The lungs are developing important structures that will eventually allow breathing after birth. Although the lungs are not yet ready to function outside the womb, important progress is being made each week.
Your baby’s skin is still thin but continues developing as fat begins forming beneath the surface. This fat will help regulate body temperature after birth and give your baby a more rounded appearance.
Your baby’s brain is also growing rapidly during this stage. Millions of new nerve connections are forming, helping support movement, sensory development, and future learning abilities.
Your baby may also begin developing more coordinated movements. Kicking, stretching, and turning help strengthen muscles and joints as the baby grows.
Common Symptoms During Week 23
Common experiences during this stage include:
More noticeable baby movements
Back discomfort
Swelling in feet or ankles
Fatigue after physical activity
Occasional leg cramps
These changes are normal as pregnancy progresses.
Some women may also notice increased appetite as the body requires more nutrients to support the baby’s continued growth.
Changes in Your Body
As your baby grows, your abdomen continues expanding.
Some women also notice their balance shifting slightly due to changes in body weight and posture.
Taking time to rest and maintaining gentle activity can help manage these changes.
Your body is also increasing blood circulation to support your baby’s development. This increased circulation helps deliver oxygen and nutrients through the placenta.
Some women may notice mild swelling in the feet or ankles during this stage. Elevating your feet and staying hydrated can often help reduce swelling.
Understanding Baby Movements
By week 23, many babies begin moving frequently throughout the day. Some babies may become more active during certain times, such as after meals or when you are resting.
These movements are an important sign of healthy development. As your baby grows stronger, kicks and stretches may become more noticeable.
Every pregnancy is different, and movement patterns can vary from baby to baby.
Helpful Tips for Week 23
Maintain a balanced diet
Stay active with gentle exercise
Rest when your body feels tired
Attend regular prenatal appointments
Gentle activities such as walking, stretching, or prenatal yoga can help improve circulation and reduce mild discomfort during pregnancy.
Track Your Pregnancy Progress
Track your pregnancy week and important milestones here:
This tool helps you understand your pregnancy timeline and track important stages of development.
Preparing for Your Baby
Many parents begin learning about newborn care and parenting during the second trimester.
Preparing early can help reduce stress later in pregnancy and make the transition into parenthood smoother.
Helpful guides and resources can be found here:
Learning about pregnancy, newborn care, and early parenting can help you feel more confident as you move closer to meeting your baby.