Changes During Pregnancy - Week 23

Mother

There is a significant increase in the volume of blood in the body during pregnancy. This can sometimes result in angiomas forming under the skin. These angiomas are characterized by a central spot with lines radiating in all directions from it, hence the name "spider" angiomas.

You may also start feeling infrequent tightening of the womb. These are usually harmless and are known as Braxton Hicks contractions. They are painless and pass off very soon. But if you find the contractions very painful and frequent or notice any bleeding, contact your doctor immediately.

You may experience puffiness and a throbbing sensation in your feet. Some of you may suffer from bouts of anxiety, frequent urination, heartburn, leg cramps and general discomfort. Mood swings are also common at this stage. You may be advised to lie on your side to avoid restricting the blood flow to the placenta.

Baby

Your baby is around 18 cm long this week. Baby can now hear sounds inside the body. Baby's skin is fairly wrinkled now but it will clear up by birth due to accumulation of fat under the skin.

Your baby moves about a lot. This may make you feel like your stomach is moving about. The bones in the middle ear of your baby starts developing from this week. He begins opening his eyelids. The taste buds of the baby can identify different tastes. His first set of teeth are forming in the gums. Your baby keeps moving the muscles in his hands and legs regularly.