23 Weeks Pregnant: What to Expect This Week
Twenty-three weeks pregnant and your baby can clearly hear voices, music, and sounds from outside the womb. A loud noise will cause them to jump — you may even feel the startle response.
Baby at Week 23: Size of a large mango
Baby's Development at 23 Weeks
Baby's hearing has reached the point where external sounds are clearly audible. The skin is still thin and translucent but is beginning to develop more layers. Blood vessels are visible through the skin, giving it a reddish tint. The pancreas — essential for insulin production — is developing. Bone marrow is now producing red blood cells independently. Baby is practising breathing movements, inhaling and exhaling amniotic fluid to develop the lungs.
Your Body at 23 Weeks Pregnant
Braxton Hicks contractions (irregular, painless tightening) may become more noticeable. Lower back pain is very common at 23 weeks. Sleep disturbances are almost universal at this stage — finding a comfortable position becomes a nightly challenge. Some people experience carpal tunnel syndrome (numbness and tingling in the hands and wrists) due to fluid retention putting pressure on the median nerve.
Tips for Week 23
- Play music, podcasts, and audiobooks near your belly — your baby is listening.
- For carpal tunnel, wearing a wrist splint at night can provide significant relief.
- Start sleeping with a wedge cushion under your bump if lying on your side becomes uncomfortable.
- Pack a pregnancy notes summary — if anything happens away from home, medical staff can get a quick overview of your care.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the viability milestone in pregnancy?
Viability refers to the point at which a baby could survive outside the womb with medical support. Most neonatologists consider 24 weeks the current threshold, though survival rates are significantly higher from 26–28 weeks. At 23 weeks, survival is possible but outcomes are highly variable — the next few weeks represent an important developmental window.
Why do I keep waking up at night when I'm pregnant?
Sleep disruption in pregnancy has multiple causes: needing to urinate frequently, discomfort from the growing bump, vivid dreams, heartburn, leg cramps, anxiety, and hormonal changes that affect sleep architecture. Most people sleep most poorly in the third trimester. A pregnancy pillow, reducing fluids before bed, and a consistent bedtime routine can all help.
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