23 Weeks Pregnant: Insights & Development
Your baby is the size of an

23 Weeks Pregnant: Your Baby’s Development

Sound advice. Now that bones in her ears have hardened, your baby can hear your voice from 23rd week of pregnancy. Give her a daily treat by reading, talking, or singing to her. The more your baby hears your voice, the more familiar it will be at birth.

Super sac. At 23 weeks pregnant, the amniotic fluid that surrounds your baby is the perfect place for her to grow into a healthy newborn. The salty fluid keeps her warm, protects her from infections, and is buoyant enough for her to exercise her developing body. Right now the amniotic sac contains about a pint of fluid, which is refreshed every three to four hours.

23 Weeks Pregnant: Your Symptoms

Get to class. Many childbirth education classes for pregnant women are designed to start around the 32nd week of pregnancy. It's a good idea to sign up for a course that ends at least a few weeks before your due date, in case your little one decides to make an early appearance. Know more about how to find an ideal birthing class for you & your partner to gain knowledge on pregnancy labor & childbirth.

Iron it out. Many women are slightly anemic before they get pregnant, and 20 percent of women are treated for iron-deficiency anemia during pregnancy. Symptoms include fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, and fainting spells. You can treat anemia by including iron-rich foods in pregnancy diet like red meat, blackstrap molasses, lentils, and leafy greens like spinach and collard greens. Know more about iron consumption during pregnancy at 23 weeks pregnant. Most women will also need to take supplemental iron, which is usually given as part of a prenatal vitamin.

Preeclampsia check. If your blood pressure is too high, your doctor may keep an eye out for preeclampsia, a complication of pregnancy characterized by high blood pressure, edema (swelling), and protein in the urine. This condition affects about 7 percent of pregnant women and catching it early is crucial. If left untreated, preeclampsia can cause decreased blood flow to your placenta. If you notice any of the symptoms of preeclampsia, including blurred vision, headaches, or sudden swelling in your feet and hands, call your healthcare provider immediately.

23 Weeks Pregnant: Your Checklist

• Read, talk, and sing to your baby

• Check that your diet includes plenty of iron-rich foods

• Try sleeping with a pillow between your knees for lower back support. Get week-by-week expert tips on pregnancy to keep track of your baby’s development & to ensure well-being of both you & your baby during entire nine months journey!

• Sign up for weekly pregnancy tips