What Happens During Week 23 Of Pregnancy?

During week 23 of pregnancy, it is especially important to be careful with anything that involves physical exertion, as it directly affects the development of the baby’s lungs.

During week 23 of pregnancy, the baby measures 11 centimeters and weighs about half a kilo. Usually it is as big as a mango. The mother can now in many cases begin to feel the baby’s movements inside the stomach. These movements can be stimulated through music or with other gentle stimuli.

Fetal characteristics during week 23 of pregnancy

Pink color

In week 23, the baby has  a pink color, regardless of what color the eyes and skin will be when the baby is born. The skin is also very wrinkled. This is because the skin is still very thin and the veins are still clearly visible.

Lungs under development

During week 23 of pregnancy, the baby’s lungs are developing fully, although it will still be several months before they are completely ready. It is therefore important that the expectant mother avoids excessive efforts. She can still exercise, but it must be in moderation and she must also get plenty of rest.

The mother in week 23 of pregnancy

Sensitive gums

During pregnancy, more blood is produced and pumped around the body, including in the mouth. It is therefore common for the expectant mother to bleed from the gums.

Even if you have bleeding gums, it is still important that you brush gently and floss. If the problem gets worse, go to the dentist so as not to risk tooth loss.

Swelling in the body

During the 23rd week of pregnancy, swelling in the body is also common. Ankles and feet tend to swell for several reasons ; this is called edema.

The swelling can vary during the day, but usually gets worse in the evening. It returns to normal after birth.

The uterus gets bigger

During the 23rd week, the uterus becomes larger. As it grows, it presses against the veins and gives rise to  poor circulation in the legs. The larger uterus also presses against the bladder so that the woman feels the need to urinate more often.

Excess fluid

During pregnancy, extra fluid accumulates in the body because the woman must meet both her own as well as the fetus’ needs. But as she also urinates more than normal, her body gets rid of the accumulated excess fluid.

What does your baby look like during week 23 of pregnancy?

The baby is still very small, but it has already assumed its final shape. From now on, the body will continue to be shaped on the inside. At week 23, the baby’s eyebrows and hair get the color indicated in its DNA.

Fetal movements

During this week, the baby begins to stretch on the body, as well as begins to yawn and sleep. The baby also begins to react to sound. Over time, the child will be able to distinguish between each sound and remember them.

Dietary advice

As always, the expectant mother should eat healthy, with a balanced and varied diet. The most important thing is to eat foods high in vitamins and nutrients. The diet should include fruits, grains, vegetables, legumes, dairy products and fatty fish.

At the same time, it is important to drink plenty of milk and water, as well as juices with low sugar content. It is also important to avoid coffee and alcoholic beverages.

Recommended vitamin supplements

To supplement the diet, the expectant mother should take vitamin supplements prescribed by a doctor, and this should include calcium. Folic acid is also important during pregnancy, as well as iron and iodine.

For the fetus to develop properly , it must receive the right nutrients in the right amount. If the mother has a vitamin or mineral deficiency, the fetus can develop abnormalities and other problems, so it is very important that you keep track of your diet.

Sleep during week 23 of pregnancy

At this point, the pregnancy affects the expectant mother’s sleep. Despite this, it is important to try to sleep properly. Chamomile tea is a great way to relax and unwind before bedtime.

Pregnant women should not take tablets to try to induce sleep. It can be addictive, and can also affect the fetus in the long run. It’s not worth the risk.