Week 23 Pregnancy: Your Baby Hears Your Voice for the First Time

Week 23 is an exciting phase of your pregnancy, with unique developments and milestones for both you and your baby. Your baby is growing rapidly and starting to refine essential functions, such as their sense of hearing and physical movements. You may notice more frequent and stronger kicks, as well as other changes in your body as it continues to adapt to support your baby’s growth.

Curious about what’s happening last week? Discover pregnancy week 22 to learn about your baby’s growing activity, developing senses, and the remarkable changes taking place in your body.

Week 23 body changes

You are now 23 weeks pregnant, or five months and three weeks along, still in your second trimester. While the challenges of the first trimester are behind you, new symptoms are likely to emerge this week. By this stage, your uterus extends about 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) above your belly button, contributing to a more pronounced baby bump. 

Your feet may continue to grow due to increased levels of the hormone relaxin. Stretch marks may also spread further, appearing on your hips, lower back, biceps, and pelvic area as your body adjusts to support your growing baby. Moreover, you may notice skin changes like the linea nigra or even the mask of pregnancy (melasma), where dark patches appear on your face due to hormonal shifts. Take a look at the area between your belly button and pubic region, and you might notice a dark line called the linea nigra. This "dark line" is caused by pregnancy hormones, which are also responsible for darkening freckles and areolas.

If you’re feeling forgetful or a bit absent-minded, don’t worry - pregnancy brain fog is a common phenomenon. It’s a natural side effect of elevated progesterone levels, so give yourself some grace during this time.

Week 23 pregnancy symptoms

At 23 weeks of pregnancy, you may experience a variety of symptoms as your body continues to adapt to support your growing baby. Here are some common symptoms during this stage:

1. Food cravings: 

   • It's common to have cravings for specific foods, which may be sweet, salty, or spicy. The exact cause is unknown, but hormonal changes are believed to play a role.

2. Leg cramps: 

   • Carrying extra weight and changes in blood circulation can lead to leg cramps, especially at night. Engaging in regular exercise, such as swimming or walking, can help alleviate this discomfort.

3. Brain fog: 

   • You might experience forgetfulness or difficulty concentrating, often referred to as "pregnancy brain." This is a common occurrence and is thought to be linked to increased levels of progesterone.

4. Hot flashes: 

   • Many expectant mothers report feeling sudden warmth or sweating, known as hot flashes. This is generally due to an increased metabolism and expanded blood vessels, which raise body temperature.

5. Blurry vision: 

   • Hormonal changes can cause fluid retention in the eyes, leading to temporary blurriness. This is usually harmless and should resolve after pregnancy.

If any of these symptoms become particularly bothersome or severe, request an appointment with Thomson Medical for personalised advice and support.

Your baby at week 23

Your baby is growing rapidly and is now about the size of a papaya, measuring approximately 29 cm (11.5 inches) from head to toe and weighing around 500 g (1.1 pounds).This week, your baby’s brain is making significant progress, forming new neurological connections that enhance sensory perception. If you haven’t already, now is a great time to start talking, reading, or singing to your baby. Their sense of hearing is developing further, with the bones in their inner ear hardening by this week, allowing them to hear your voice and other external sounds more clearly. Though your baby’s lungs are not yet fully functional, they are already practicing breathing movements, preparing for life outside the womb. These “practice breaths” are an essential part of lung development.In addition to these advancements, your baby is becoming more active. The rapid growth of muscles and coordination allows for stronger kicks, rolls, and movements, which you may feel more distinctly this week. This increasing activity is a beautiful reminder of your little one’s progress.

Pregnancy tests & screenings 

By week 23, you should have completed your foetal anomaly scan, which assesses your baby’s development and, if desired, reveals the baby’s gender. At this stage, your healthcare professionals will continue monitoring your health and your baby’s well-being with specific tests and screenings.

One of the primary checks this week is for signs of preeclampsia, a serious condition characterised by high blood pressure, excessive swelling, and protein in the urine. Your doctor will monitor your blood pressure and test your urine to rule out this condition. You may also undergo a cervical length scan, which assesses the cervix to ensure it is not opening prematurely. If necessary, your doctor might recommend a cervical stitch (cerclage) to reduce the risk of early labour. Another optional test is the foetal fibronectin (FFN) test, which identifies the presence of a protein that helps keep your baby in the uterus. A positive result may indicate a risk of preterm labour within the next few weeks.

Here’s a summary of tests and screenings relevant for this stage:

Learn more about our prenatal scans for each trimester here.

At Thomson, we offer personalised pregnancy tests and screenings tailored to each week of your pregnancy. You can always request an appointment with us to discuss your pregnancy journey.

Preparing for week 23 pregnancy

As you are 23 weeks pregnant, your body continues to adapt to support your growing baby. Taking proactive steps can help you stay healthy, comfortable, and prepared for this stage. Here are some tips:

1. Stay active:

   • Engage in light exercises such as walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga. These activities can improve circulation, reduce leg cramps, and alleviate backaches. Always consult your doctor before starting or continuing an exercise routine.

2. Focus on nutrition:

   • Eat a balanced diet rich in iron, calcium, folic acid, and other essential nutrients. Include nutritious foods like leafy greens, lean proteins, and whole grains to support your baby’s development. Don’t forget to stay hydrated - drink lots of water - throughout the day.

3. Prioritise rest and relaxation:

   • As your energy levels fluctuate, listen to your body and rest when needed. A warm bath can help soothe tired muscles, reduce stress, and improve sleep quality. Ensure the water is warm but not hot to avoid overheating.

   • Use a pregnancy pillow or try sleeping on your left side to improve blood flow and enhance comfort.

4. Monitor your symptoms:

   • Pay attention to common symptoms like leg cramps, backaches, or Braxton Hicks contractions. If you notice anything unusual or severe, consult your healthcare provider promptly.

5. Bond with your baby:

   • Your baby can now hear your voice, so take time to talk, sing, or read aloud. This not only strengthens your bond but also provides early sensory stimulation for your baby.

6. Attend prenatal appointments:

   • Ensure you attend all scheduled check-ups. Your doctor may monitor your blood pressure, test for preeclampsia, or recommend optional screenings like the foetal fibronectin test or cervical length scan.

7. Prepare your mind and space:

   • Start planning for your baby’s arrival by organising your living space and gathering essential items. You can also look into childbirth classes to learn about labour, delivery, and newborn care.

Curious about what’s ahead? Dive into pregnancy week 24 to discover how your baby is growing stronger, developing lungs for breathing, and how to manage the changes happening in your body. We understand that preparing for pregnancy can be overwhelming, and we're here to support you every step of the way. Request an appointment with us for personalised care and expert support to guide you through your pregnancy journey. 

FAQ

Can my baby hear me at week 23?

Yes, at 23 weeks pregnant, your baby’s sense of hearing is developing, and they can now recognise your voice. Reading, talking, or singing to your baby helps create a bond and stimulates their senses.

Is it normal to feel more movement now?

Yes, your baby is becoming more active as their muscles and coordination develop. You might feel stronger and more frequent kicks, rolls, or flutters this week.

Why am I experiencing hot flashes?

Hot flashes are common at 23 weeks due to your increased metabolism and widening blood vessels, which cause more blood to flow to your skin. These changes help regulate your baby’s temperature.

Can my baby feel me rub my belly at 23 weeks?

Yes, at 23 weeks pregnant, your baby can sense when you rub your belly as their sense of touch develops. Gentle rubbing, combined with talking or singing, can help calm your baby and strengthen your bond.

How developed is a 23 week old baby?

At 23 weeks pregnant, the baby development is more rapid but is not yet fully mature. They are developing their brain, hearing, and lung function while becoming more active. However, they still need more time to fully mature, especially their lungs and immune system.

How often should I feel my baby kick at 23 weeks?

At 23 weeks pregnant, you should feel your baby move regularly, though there is no specific number of kicks to expect. Movements may feel like flutters, rolls, or kicks and are more noticeable at certain times of the day. If you’re concerned about reduced activity, consult your healthcare provider.

What are the dos and don’ts for a healthy pregnancy at 23 weeks?

Dos

• Stay active: Engage in light exercises like walking or prenatal yoga to improve circulation and reduce discomfort.

• Eat a balanced diet: Include iron, calcium, folic acid, and vitamin C-rich foods to support your baby’s growth.

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration and reduce swelling.

• Get enough rest: Sleep on your left side to improve blood flow and use pillows for added support.

• Attend prenatal appointments: Regular check-ups are vital to monitor your and your baby’s health.

• Bond with your baby: Talk, sing, or read to your baby, as they can now hear your voice.

Don’ts

• Avoid heavy lifting: This can strain your back and cause discomfort.

• Limit caffeine: Stick to the recommended intake to avoid potential risks to your baby.

• Avoid raw or undercooked foods: These increase the risk of foodborne illnesses.

• Don’t smoke or consume alcohol: Both can harm your baby’s development.

• Avoid lying flat on your back: It can restrict blood flow and cause discomfort.

• Don’t ignore symptoms: Contact your doctor if you notice severe swelling, reduced baby movement, or unusual pain.

The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations and tailored advice, please consult a specialist at Thomson Medical. Request an appointment with Thomson Medical today.