Reaching 23 weeks pregnant means you are firmly settled into the second trimester, often the most comfortable and enjoyable stretch of pregnancy. Your baby is growing quickly, their movements are becoming stronger and more familiar, and your bump is now a clear and cherished sign of the little person on the way. This week is a lovely moment to pause, connect with your baby and think ahead to the appointments and milestones still to come.
Following on from week 22, week 23 is largely about steady growth and gentle preparation. Many parents find this a reassuring time, with regular kicks and rolls offering a daily sense of connection. Below we walk through your baby's development, the changes you may notice in your own body, and the practical things worth keeping in mind at 23 weeks.
Your baby at week 23
At 23 weeks, your baby is roughly the length of a large mango or grapefruit, typically measuring around 28 to 30 centimetres from head to heel and weighing in the region of 500 grams. These figures are approximate and every baby grows at their own pace, so try not to worry about small differences.
This week brings some remarkable developments. Your baby's skin is still thin, wrinkled and slightly translucent, though it will gradually plump out as fat stores build in the weeks ahead. The tiny blood vessels in the lungs are developing in preparation for breathing after birth, although the lungs are still very immature at this stage.
Your baby's sense of hearing is becoming more established, and they may begin to respond to familiar sounds such as your voice, your heartbeat and the everyday rhythms of your day. Movements are also becoming more coordinated, which is often why kicks, rolls and hiccups feel more distinct and regular around now.
Your body at week 23
As your baby grows, your bump is becoming more prominent and you may notice a range of new sensations. Common experiences around 23 weeks include:
- Braxton Hicks contractions — occasional, usually painless tightenings of the womb as your body practises for labour.
- Backache and pelvic discomfort as your posture shifts and ligaments soften.
- Mild swelling in the feet, ankles and hands, particularly later in the day.
- Skin changes such as stretch marks, a darker line down the abdomen or increased pigmentation.
- Leg cramps, especially at night, along with occasional dizziness or breathlessness.
Most of these changes are a normal part of the second trimester. That said, sudden or severe swelling, a bad headache, vision changes or a noticeable reduction in your baby's movements should always be checked promptly, as these can occasionally signal something that needs attention.
What to keep in mind this week
Getting to know your baby's individual pattern of movements is one of the most valuable things you can do at this stage. There is no set number of movements to expect, but you will gradually learn what is typical for your baby. If you ever feel that movements have slowed or changed, contact your midwife or maternity unit straight away, at any time of day or night.
This is also a sensible time to think about vaccinations that support you and your baby. The NHS offers the whooping cough vaccine, typically from around 16 weeks up to 32 weeks, and the seasonal flu and COVID-19 vaccines where appropriate. Your midwife or GP can talk you through the timing that suits your pregnancy.
Beyond that, gentle movement, staying well hydrated, eating regular balanced meals and prioritising rest all help you feel your best. A personalised overview can make the weeks ahead feel more manageable, and our pregnancy journey planner can help you map out your appointments and milestones in one place.
Scans, tests and appointments
By 23 weeks, your routine 20-week anomaly scan, usually offered on the NHS between 18 and 21 weeks, will normally have taken place. This detailed scan checks your baby's development and anatomy in depth.
Looking a little further ahead, if you are at higher risk of gestational diabetes you may be offered a glucose tolerance test (GTT), typically between 24 and 28 weeks. Your maternity team will let you know whether this applies to you.
Many parents also value additional reassurance between routine NHS appointments. At London Pregnancy Clinic, our wellbeing checks can offer extra peace of mind as pregnancy progresses, while a 3D/4D scan becomes a wonderful way to see your baby's features in more detail, with the clearest images generally captured a little later in the coming weeks. For continuity of care and support, some families choose to work with a private midwife alongside their NHS team.
Looking ahead to week 24
As you approach week 24, you are nearing an important milestone in your pregnancy, and your baby will continue to grow and gain strength week by week. For now, enjoy the movements, look after yourself and lean on your midwifery team whenever you have questions. Every week brings you a little closer to meeting your baby.
This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always speak to your midwife, GP or obstetrician about your own pregnancy.
