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Pregnancy Week by Week: Week 23...
Week 23
What Is Happening To Your Body
At this point, you should have gained about 12 to 15 pounds.
During your doctor appointments, your Ob/Gyn may palpate, or gently push on, your abdomen. This will allow her to feel the position of your baby. Your doctor will also measure your fundal height (pubic bone to top of the uterus) which is a good measure of the continued growth of your baby.
You may also be having more and more trouble sleeping due to the need to urinate frequently, heartburn, leg cramps, anxiety or discomfort. But rest is important for both you and your baby. Try to play some soothing music, read a relaxing book or drink a cup of non-caffeinated tea to help you get to sleep. You can also try sleeping on your side with a pillow between your legs to help relieve pressure.
What Is Happening To Your Baby
Your baby measures around 11.4 inches (28.9 cm) long from head to heel and weighs almost 1 pound (453.6 grams).
Your baby continues to accumulate fat and drink in amniotic fluid. His or her sense of taste is maturing, along with other senses such as touch and hearing. The baby’s lanugo (hair that covers its body) is growing darker and its fingernails are also almost fully formed.
Over the next few weeks, your baby will gain significant weight and will almost double in size.
The ears are also starting to develop as the three main bones (hammer, anvil, and stirrup) are hardening. This means the baby can listen to sounds but the brain is still developing rapidly.
Your baby’s important organs are also developing quickly. The pancreas, which helps produce insulin, is maturing, and your baby now has sweat glands.
Your baby will also be moving around a lot during this time, so the kicks and punches you felt before will continue. At this point, you might even be able to feel the movements from outside your belly!
What Is Happening This Week? 
Ultrasound images courtesy of GE Healthcare
The clinical images and information presented in this application represent normal fetal growth during a typical pregnancy. The images and information are to be used for educational purposes only and not for diagnostic purposes. Please consult a licensed physician regarding any specific questions pertaining to your pregnancy.
