At 23 weeks pregnant, your baby is growing quickly and becoming more developed every day. Your belly is also changing, and you may notice new marks and physical changes as your pregnancy progresses. This is a good time to focus on healthy habits while beginning to prepare for the final trimester.
Baby’s Development at 23 Weeks
Your baby is continuing to gain weight at an impressive pace. Body fat is gradually increasing, helping prepare your baby for life outside the womb.
Your baby’s skin is still relatively thin and translucent at this stage. The skin may appear reddish because blood vessels can be seen through it. Hair and other features are continuing to develop, while pigmentation will increase as development progresses.
Inside your baby’s digestive system, meconium is accumulating. Meconium is a thick, dark substance made from materials such as intestinal secretions, mucus and cells that your baby has swallowed during development. It becomes your baby’s first bowel movement and is normally passed after birth.
Your baby’s nervous system and organs also continue maturing, and movement may become easier for you to notice as your pregnancy progresses.
Your Body at 23 Weeks
Your growing belly may bring one of the most visible changes of pregnancy: stretch marks.
Stretch marks can appear as red, pink, brown or purplish lines and may later become lighter. They commonly occur on the abdomen, breasts, hips, thighs and other areas where the skin stretches.
There is no guaranteed cream or oil that can completely prevent or remove stretch marks. However, keeping your skin moisturized can help reduce dryness and itching and may make your skin feel more comfortable.
Most stretch marks gradually become less noticeable over time. They are a common part of pregnancy and are not a sign that you have done anything wrong.
Looking Ahead to Third-Trimester Care
As you approach the third trimester, your healthcare provider may recommend additional appointments and screening tests.
One important screening is the gestational diabetes test, which checks whether pregnancy has affected your blood sugar regulation. Your healthcare provider can explain which testing method is recommended for you and when it should be performed.
Rather than avoiding or changing a recommended test on your own, discuss the benefits, preparation and any concerns with your doctor or midwife.
Healthy Habits This Week
Nutrition remains important as your baby grows. Instead of focusing on eliminating specific foods, aim for balanced meals containing vegetables, fruit, whole grains or other nutrient-rich carbohydrates, protein and healthy fats.
Magnesium is an important nutrient during pregnancy and can be found in foods such as nuts, seeds, beans, whole grains and leafy green vegetables. If you’re considering a magnesium supplement, discuss the appropriate amount with your healthcare provider.
You may also find that pregnancy affects your memory and concentration. Keeping a small notebook or using a phone app for appointments, questions and reminders can make everyday life easier.
Your Week 23 Checklist
- Keep your prenatal appointments.
- Ask about upcoming third-trimester tests.
- Discuss gestational diabetes screening with your healthcare provider.
- Eat a varied, nutrient-rich diet.
- Stay hydrated and remain active if exercise is appropriate for your pregnancy.
- Moisturize your skin if it feels dry or itchy.
- Keep notes of important appointments and questions.
- Give yourself plenty of rest as your body continues adapting.
At 23 weeks, your baby is growing rapidly while your body continues preparing for the months ahead. Take each week as it comes, stay informed, and discuss any concerns or unusual symptoms with your healthcare professional.
