23 weeks pregnant
Second trimester about 5 months
At 23 weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of a grapefruit.
Baby this week
About 28cm. The baby's lungs are producing surfactant, which will be essential for breathing after birth. The face is now fully formed with distinct features.
Did you know? The baby's lungs are now producing surfactant — the substance that prevents the air sacs from collapsing. Without it, premature babies struggle to breathe.
What she may be feeling
- Strong fetal movement
- Back pain
- Leg cramps
- Heartburn
- Swelling
- Stretch marks
- Varicose veins
- Shortness of breath
Tips for her this week
- Your uterus is now about the size of a soccer ball.
- Leg cramps at night are common — stretch your calves before bed and stay hydrated.
- Regular movement is good — aim for 30 minutes of gentle activity most days.
- Start thinking about postpartum recovery: what help will you have in the first weeks?
For partners
- The viability milestone is one week away — week 24 is when survival outside the womb becomes possible.
- Talk about your postpartum plan: help in the early weeks, sleep schedules, division of duties.
- The nursery should be essentially complete by now.
- Make sure her prenatal appointments are tracked and that you can attend as many as possible.
Partner to-do list
- Discuss the postpartum support plan in detail
- Finalize and complete the nursery
- Ensure all major baby gear is purchased and assembled
- Research parental leave policies one more time
This week together
- Create a detailed postpartum support plan
- Identify who helps in the first two weeks post-birth
- Confirm pediatrician selection
- Discuss breastfeeding vs formula plans
When to call your doctor or midwife
Contact your care provider right away, or call emergency services, if she has:
- Regular contractions or pressure before week 37
- Heavy bleeding
- Fever
- Severe headache, vision changes, or sudden severe swelling (signs of preeclampsia)
Trusted guidance: NHS: Pregnancy · NHS: Pregnancy complications · ACOG: Pregnancy · Pregnancy Info: Your pregnancy
Common questions
How big is the baby at 23 weeks?
At 23 weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of a grapefruit. About 28cm.
How many months is 23 weeks pregnant?
23 weeks pregnant is about 5 months, in the second trimester.
What can partners do at 23 weeks?
The viability milestone is one week away — week 24 is when survival outside the womb becomes possible. Talk about your postpartum plan: help in the early weeks, sleep schedules, division of duties.