Pregnancy week 23

Filed under Second trimester · Pregnancy Week to Week editorial team

At week 23 of pregnancy, the baby has grown to about one pound and almost 11 inches. If the baby were born during this week, there is about a 10 percent chance of survival. Babies in general increase their chances of survival 3 percent each day they remain longer in the womb. Premature babies, nonetheless, can beat the odds and survive birth if unforeseen circumstances do not hinder their chances. Sometimes high blood pressure on the part of the mother can be a circumstance which prevents the premature baby’s survival. However, complications such as difficulties with motor and cognitive skills may arise later in life. During this week, the bones in the middle ear of the baby begin to develop. Also, the eyelids begin to open up although the visual scope of the baby does not come into focus until a few weeks after birth. The taste buds of the baby can differentiate between sweet and bitter and the first of it’s teeth are beginning to develop in the gums.

During this time, the baby has so much room to move around in that its movements are probably very strong. Some symptoms associated with week 23 of pregnancy include puffy and throbbing feet. Sometimes amidst the second trimester women experience a form of painless contractions known as Braxton Hicks contractions. Sometimes these contractions are referred to as false labor. The differences between normal contractions and Braxton Hicks contractions are that the Hicks contractions are painless, arbitrary, and usually go on for about one minute. Also, Braxton Hicks contractions don’t come on as frequently as do labor contractions. Labor contractions also tend to build over time and become more frequent and more painful as they progress. The body prepares itself for dilation and delivery by going through this false labor and thinning out and opening up the cervix. Water should help alleviate the symptoms of Braxton Hicks. However, if the contractions last for longer than one minute and frequent between five minute intervals throughout one hour, preterm labor is a definite possibility. Other symptoms of preterm labor include bloody or runny discharge and lower back pain along with the contractions. Also, if the contractions occur at regular intervals, it is likely that they are signs of preterm labor.

Current guidance (today's medical sources): By week twenty-three the baby's lungs are developing the blood vessels needed for breathing after birth, though the lungs are not yet mature. The baby responds to sounds and movement. Stretch marks and increased swelling are common as the body changes; comfortable footwear and rest can help.

Sources: NHS — 23 weeks pregnant; Mayo Clinic — Fetal development: The 2nd trimester; ACOG — Ultrasound Exams. Informational only. See our sources & medical-review policy.

Informational only — not medical advice. Pregnancy Week to Week is a general educational reference. It is not a substitute for professional medical care, diagnosis, or treatment. Every pregnancy is different: always consult your doctor, midwife, or other qualified healthcare provider about your own pregnancy, and never disregard or delay professional advice because of something you read here. In an emergency, contact your maternity unit or local emergency number immediately.