6 months already… 23w 5d still can’t believe it. Little man’s been way more active it feels like a small jolting sensation
WeMoms
9 Apr 2024
Your body at 23 weeks of pregnancy
Your Body
at 23 Weeks
As your pregnancy progresses, the bond between you and your baby strengthens, especially as their kicks become more pronounced.
This week introduces a mix of new experiences and symptoms, signaling your body's remarkable adaptation to support the life growing within you.
Let's explore what you can expect during this phase and offer guidance on how to manage these changes effectively.
Symptoms of the week
Water retention
Cravings
Feeling warm
Blurred vision
Cravings: An increase in hunger is common as your body demands more nutrients.
Feeling Warm: Elevated body temperature may lead to seeking cooler environments.
Blurred Vision: Temporary changes in vision due to hormonal fluctuations.
Water Retention: Leading to swelling, especially in hands and feet.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Numbness or tingling in your hands due to increased fluid retention.
Feeling Warm: Elevated body temperature may lead to seeking cooler environments.
Blurred Vision: Temporary changes in vision due to hormonal fluctuations.
Water Retention: Leading to swelling, especially in hands and feet.
Other
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Numbness or tingling in your hands due to increased fluid retention.
Your body adjusts to the third trimester, and some swelling may occur. It's a time of continued awe and preparation.
International Journal of Gynecology and Obstetrics
Is it normal?
Carpal tunnel syndrome and water retention are common as your body adjusts to increased fluid levels, causing pressure on nerves.
An enhanced appetite supports your growing baby, requiring an additional 350 calories daily during the second trimester.
Experiencing hot flashes? They're a frequent symptom, affecting 1 in 3 pregnant women due to hormonal shifts.
Meanwhile, blurred vision is a temporary change that should resolve post-pregnancy. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any concerns, especially if symptoms like fever or unusual discomfort arise.
Top Asked Questions
Top 5 questions answered
How can I prepare for labor and delivery?
Attend childbirth classes, create a birth plan, and practice relaxation techniques to help prepare for labor and delivery.
What are some good positions for labor and delivery?
Upright positions like squatting or standing can help gravity work with you during labor and delivery.
What are some good foods to eat during the third trimester?
Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to help meet your nutritional needs.
What is the baby's position at 6 months?
Your baby may be head-down or breech at 6 months, but it's normal for babies to move around frequently at this stage.
What are some signs of preterm labor?
Signs of preterm labor include contractions, lower back pain, pelvic pressure, and vaginal bleeding or discharge.
Taking care of yourself
Hand Stretching: Regularly stretch your hands to alleviate carpal tunnel symptoms.
Healthy Snacking: Opt for nutritious snacks such as vegetables, fruits, and nuts.
Cool Treats: Indulge in frozen fruits, yogurts, or sorbets to stay refreshed.
Eye Care: Take breaks from screens, focusing on distant objects to relax your eyes.
Healthy Snacking: Opt for nutritious snacks such as vegetables, fruits, and nuts.
Cool Treats: Indulge in frozen fruits, yogurts, or sorbets to stay refreshed.
Eye Care: Take breaks from screens, focusing on distant objects to relax your eyes.
Tips of the week
Discuss potential birth scenarios and options with your healthcare provider
Attend a prenatal appointment and stay up-to-date with recommended tests and screenings
Consider hiring a professional photographer for maternity or newborn photos
Practice relaxation techniques and self-care to reduce stress and promote relaxation
Invest in comfortable and supportive footwear to reduce foot pain
Teaser for next week
Coming up in week 24, you might feel some heartburn and the fatigue is kicking in again!
Check back here next week for more details.
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Ashlynn
11 Feb 2023
Is spotting normal it was just a few drops but I'm still anxiety ridden over it and I feel somewhat crampy and nauseous #23w
Hannah
I would call your Dr.
27 Mar 2024
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Ashlynn
my dr. Office is closed on the weekends
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sassoo
11 Nov 2022
Help me guys my baby is not moving since a few days I do a private ultrasound she’s not moving, what can I do??? Is that a problem I supposed to measure 25 weeks! But I’m measuring 23w
Alyssa
You can go to the hospital and tell them you haven’t felt her move in awhile, Im sure they will check to make sure everything is fine!
27 Mar 2024
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Raegan
I recently had this issue, and my ob told me to go to the emergency room. He was completely fine, just going through a growth spurt, however they saw my blood pressure was high.. I would go to just check it out and ensure baby is okay. Update your OB on the situation and get her input!
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Shaniqua
4 Sep 2022
Turned 23w pregnant yesterday! 6mos pregnant, almost there! Anyone else on their 3rd pregnancy?
Danielle 🦦🪷
Currently 18+4 with baby 3
27 Mar 2024
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jazmin
19 weeks with my third
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Katherine
6 May 2022
So I weigh 129 as of 23w & this is the heaviest I’ve ever been! I’m excited but nervous to see how I’m going to look and weigh after my baby! ☺️☺️
Emily
It's ok girl. Your weight doesn't reflect your happiness or worthiness!!! Just try to stay positive. It's all worth it for baby
27 Mar 2024
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Katherine
Completely agree , just feels crazy because I’ve always been so skinny and I hated it. Gaining weight is making me happy I just hope I don’t get over weight ✨✨
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Katherine
6 May 2022
I’ve started having back pain, this sucks! I’m barely at 23w too so I can only imagine further along the pregnancy 😭Any tips on relieving back pain mommies ! 😩🥺
Tasha
Take Tylenol. I’m 26 weeks and experiencing it too.
27 Mar 2024
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sara
I’m 21 weeks and I’v been having back pain to
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Freedom
30 Apr 2022
Update on baby Chance, he had his 21 week anatomy scan his length measured 22w and his head measured 23w yikes! he is in the 91st percentile. my body ain’t ever gonna be the same down there
Emily
😳😳😳😳😳😳.
27 Mar 2024
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Freedom
my first baby too 😭
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Marissa
11 Nov 2021
Today I am 23w and 1d and I still can't believe my son is about to be 8 in December and I'm about to start all over again 🙃
Tamara
I’m 19 weeks and my son just turned 8 in October so trust me I feel you on this one😩😩
27 Mar 2024
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