Week 23 : Your baby’s hearing is improving, and they can respond to
sounds like music or your voice! Try playing soft lullabies or talking to your baby—they are
listening!
Mom’s Health Concerns
Weight gain: Expect to have gained around 7–8 kg by
now
Varicose veins may appear due to increased blood
volume
Possible stretch marks on the belly, breasts, or
thighs
Hemorrhoids or constipation due to pressure on
veins
Skin changes (pregnancy glow, dark patches on
face—melasma)
Baby Activities
Your baby is about the size of small squash (~28.9 cm
or 11.4 inches long) and weighs around 500–550 grams (1.1 lbs).
Baby's skin is becoming less transparent
Lungs are developing surfactant, which helps with
breathing after birth
Baby can hear and respond to loud noises
Facial features are fully formed—eyebrows and
eyelashes continue to grow
Baby is practicing movements like sucking and
swallowing
Symptoms
More noticeable and stronger baby kicks
Increased vaginal discharge (normal if clear/white)
Swollen feet and ankles due to fluid retention
Back pain and pelvic discomfort
Leg cramps, especially at night
Shortness of breath as the uterus pushes on the
diaphragm
Heartburn and indigestion may continue
Mild Braxton Hicks contractions (irregular practice
contractions)
emotional changes
Feeling more connected with baby's movements increase
Mood swings due to fluctuating hormones
Possible anxiety about labor and delivery
Excitement about preparing for baby’s arrival
When to Call the Doctor
Severe or persistent abdominal pain
Heavy bleeding or unusual discharge
Severe dizziness, fainting, or blurred vision
Painful or frequent Braxton Hicks contractions
Sudden swelling in hands, face, or legs (signs of preeclampsia)
Reduced or no baby movement (if previously felt regularly)
