Your baby this week
Your baby reacts to sounds now! A loud noise might cause a startle — your baby is still getting used to the outside world from in there. Your baby is having rapid eye movements during sleep — some doctors think this means dreaming. The skin is wrinkled and reddish, but your baby will fill out soon. Your baby has passed an important milestone — with lots of medical help, your baby could now survive if it had to come early. But it's far better to stay cozy in there a while longer.
Your body this week
Your baby's movements should feel more regular now — you may notice patterns of active and quiet times. Swollen ankles are common, especially by evening. Back pain continues as your belly grows. You may feel warm most of the time as your metabolism has increased. Stretch marks may itch. This is a great time to start noticing your baby's movement patterns.
Common symptoms this week
Every pregnancy is different — you may notice some of these, all of them, or none at all. None of this is a checklist to worry over.
- Regular baby movements
- Ankles swelling by evening
- Ongoing back pain
- Feeling warm most of the time
- Itchy stretch marks
This week’s checklist
- Start noticing kick patterns — your doctor may suggest kick counting around week 28
- Stay hydrated — dehydration can trigger Braxton Hicks
- Consider a belly support band for back pain
- Eat omega-3 rich foods (salmon, walnuts) for brain development
- Discuss birth plan preferences with your partner
What’s normal this week
Most of what you’re feeling is your body doing exactly what it should — the everyday symptoms don’t need a call. The signs below are the rare exceptions: noticing one doesn’t mean something’s wrong, just that it’s worth a quick check.
When to call your doctor
- Baby's movements suddenly decrease or stop
- Regular contractions (more than 4 per hour before 37 weeks)
- Fluid leaking from vagina
This guide offers general information for a typical pregnancy and is not a substitute for personalised medical advice. Always follow your doctor or midwife’s guidance for your situation.
Frequently asked questions
How big is my baby at 23 weeks pregnant?
At 23 weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of a grapefruit.
What are common symptoms at 23 weeks pregnant?
Common symptoms around 23 weeks pregnant include regular baby movements, ankles swelling by evening, ongoing back pain, feeling warm most of the time, itchy stretch marks. Every pregnancy is different — you may notice some of these, all of them, or none at all.
What is developing at 23 weeks pregnant?
Your baby reacts to sounds now! A loud noise might cause a startle — your baby is still getting used to the outside world from in there.
When should I call my doctor at 23 weeks pregnant?
Call your doctor at 23 weeks if you notice baby's movements suddenly decrease or stop, regular contractions (more than 4 per hour before 37 weeks), fluid leaking from vagina.
Last updated June 2026
References
Ovyacare’s guidance is written in-house and aligned with leading medical authorities: