Week 23 Pregnancy

Second Trimester

Last reviewed: July 2026

23 weeks pregnant at a glance

You are in the second trimester.
Your baby is roughly the size of a grapefruit.
Midwife appointment (around 24 weeks) for those on a standard pathway.
Every pregnancy is different, so don't worry if your experience varies slightly.

You are 23 weeks pregnant and in your second trimester. Your baby is about the size of a grapefruit. This week's key development: Listening In. NHS note: Midwife appointment (around 24 weeks) for those on a standard pathway.

This page is for general pregnancy planning and date guidance only. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Pregnancy dates are estimates and can change after a scan or advice from your midwife, GP, or maternity team. Always speak to a qualified healthcare professional if you have symptoms, concerns, or questions about your pregnancy.

Week 22

Week 24

Baby's Development

Your baby is about the size of a grapefruit.

Listening In — Your baby can now recognise your voice distinctly from other sounds, and research suggests they may even respond to music. Their skin is still translucent but becoming more opaque. Lung development is ongoing — one of the final systems to fully mature.

Grapefruit

Approx. 28.9cm

Your Symptoms

Braxton Hicks (painless tightenings)
Heat sensitivity
Bleeding gums

Every pregnancy is different. You may experience all, some, or none of these symptoms — and that's completely normal. If anything concerns you, speak to your midwife.

NHS Appointments

Midwife appointment (around 24 weeks) for those on a standard pathway.

Practical Advice for Week 23

Nutrition

Continue vitamin D daily.
Eat foods rich in fibre to combat pregnancy constipation.
Calcium remains crucial — your baby's bones are hardening.
Include vitamin B6-rich foods (poultry, fish, potatoes) — they may help with nausea if it persists.

Exercise

Continue moderate exercise — listen to your body and modify as needed.
Cooling down after exercise is important — don't stop suddenly.
Pelvic floor exercises — still important! Don't let them slip.
If Braxton Hicks feel uncomfortable during exercise, slow down and hydrate.

Wellbeing

Your baby can now recognise your voice — talk, read, and sing to them.
Heat sensitivity is common — dress in layers and stay cool.
Bleeding gums are caused by pregnancy hormones — brush gently and see your dentist.
Stay connected with friends and family for emotional support.

Preparation

Midwife appointment around 24 weeks for standard care pathway.
Begin researching pram/pushchair options — John Lewis, Mothercare, and independent shops offer demos.
Consider installing a car seat base now — it can be tricky to fit.
Look into your employer's enhanced maternity package (some offer more than statutory).

Tip of the Week

Stay cool and hydrated. You might find you feel much warmer than usual.

Frequently Asked Questions for Week 23

How many months is 23 weeks pregnant?

At 23 weeks pregnant, you are roughly 5 months pregnant. Remember that pregnancy is typically measured in weeks rather than months for clinical accuracy.

What size is the baby at 23 weeks?

At 23 weeks, your baby is roughly the size of a grapefruit (about 28.9cm). Your baby can now recognise your voice distinctly from other sounds, and research suggests they may even respond to music. Their skin is still translucent but becoming more opaque. Lung development is ongoing

What are the common symptoms at 23 weeks pregnant?

Common symptoms at this stage include braxton hicks (painless tightenings), heat sensitivity, bleeding gums. Remember that every pregnancy is unique, and it's normal to experience different symptoms.

Is 23 weeks in the second trimester?

Yes, 23 weeks falls within the second trimester.

Are there any NHS appointments at 23 weeks?

Midwife appointment (around 24 weeks) for those on a standard pathway.