Pregnancy Week 23

Pregnancy Week 23: What to Expect This Week

Pregnancy Week 23 is that slightly odd space where you’re definitely pregnant (no one’s mistaking this bump for bloat anymore), but birth still feels a way off. You might be getting more curious about baby’s personality—or just wondering if your bladder will ever know peace again.

Let’s break down what’s happening this week.

Baby at Pregnancy Week 23

Your baby is around 29cm long and weighs roughly 500–550g—about the size of a large mango or a small loaf of bread (neither of which is currently allowed to sit on your lap comfortably).

Here’s what’s going on inside:

Baby’s skin is still thin and wrinkly, but they’re starting to lay down fat

Their hearing is improving, and they might even respond to familiar voices

Lungs are developing the air sacs needed for breathing

They’re practising swallowing, breathing and sucking—all the things they’ll need on the outside

And yes, they’re moving a lot now—more flips, jabs, and dramatic stretches

You might notice patterns forming—baby might get more active after you eat or lie down. (Sorry in advance for the bedtime acrobatics.)

Your Symptoms at Pregnancy Week 23

This week might bring a few new physical challenges, or turn up the volume on the ones you’ve already noticed:

Backache and pelvic pressure (hello, growing uterus)

Heartburn, indigestion, and possibly a growing fear of spicy food

Tiredness or feeling slightly out of breath

Swelling in hands or feet, especially by the end of the day

Leg cramps, often at night and always when you’re just about to drift off

Linea nigra—that dark line running down your bump—may start to show up

Top tip: If cramps or swelling are becoming a regular nighttime nuisance, try a pre-bed massage using our Thankful Ankle Oil or Pregnancy Massage Oil. It’s a lovely way to unwind (and can be gently delegated to a willing partner).

Shop your bump-friendly oils here

What to Do at Pregnancy Week 23

You’re nearing that third trimester mark—so this is a great week for taking stock and gently starting your birth prep journey.

Book your 24-week midwife appointment if it’s not already in the diary
Start exploring antenatal class options – booking early gives you the most flexibility
If you’re working, think about your maternity leave dates
Make a list of what you’d like to know about birth and feeding—we can help with that
And treat yourself—comfy clothes, a good pillow, and a little time to rest all go a long way

Honest Midwife Thoughts

By Pregnancy Week 23, many expectant parents start shifting from “this is happening” to “I should probably figure out how it’s going to happen.” That doesn’t mean you need a fully laminated birth plan just yet—but it is a good time to start gathering information.

Whether you’re hoping for a natural birth, considering a planned caesarean, or just trying to keep your options open, understanding how your body works and what your choices are is incredibly empowering.

And remember, no one gets extra points for doing it all alone. Ask questions. Take naps. Book the class.

Feeling Ready? Join Us for a Class

This week, we recommend:

Free Natural Labour & Birth Class – a friendly intro to how birth works and how to support your body through it
Hypnobirthing Course – a four-week, practical course designed to help you feel informed and confident
Infant Feeding or Practical Parenting Class – if you’re starting to think beyond the birth

All classes are live on Zoom, midwife-led, and totally down-to-earth.

Book your place here

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