23 Weeks Pregnant

Make no mistake about it, you are sure to feel your baby move this week. Well, that may be a slight understatement. Your baby is most likely giving you all you can handle, as the kicks, punches, prods, and pokes are being delivered with amazing frequency. With room to explore, your baby is testing out all of his skills, and you and your partner are sure to see those results played out on your moving abdomen.

Jukebox

Your baby now weighs a pound, and checks in at about 13 inches long. As mentioned before, your baby is a dancing machine this week, and will be sure to keep you rocking to the beat. Literally. Just know that this is a positive sign that your baby is developing proper skills. To comfort your baby (and yourself), gently rub your belly while movement is occurring. Aside all the activity, your baby has also established fat as insulation, and has now formed fingernails. In addition, your baby’s lungs have begun developing surfactant. This is a substance that will aid in your baby’s breathing after delivery, by helping to expand the lungs. As you can see, your baby is one busy mover and shaker!

Week 23 Pregnancy Roller-Coaster

Your uterus is now positioned about 1 ½ inches above your navel, thus giving you a more pronounced appearance of being pregnant. While your baby is using you as a personal playground this week, you may find yourself having some mood swings. This is a normal response during this time, and should be regarded as such. Don’t get too down on yourself, and always remember to keep your mind focused on the ultimate destination: delivery day! So now that you are dealing with your baby’s movements and fluctuations in your spirit, there couldn’t be anything else, right? Well, not exactly. You may still experience some of the swelling you encountered last week, and the same remedies apply. You may also be faced with heartburn this week, and this can be eased by avoiding fatty and spicy foods, and trying to stay hydrated. In short, you can go a long way towards relief by sticking to the same diet and exercise plan you have been following.

Looking Forward In Your Pregnancy

Many expectant mothers struggle with the weight gain that accompanies pregnancy. In the weeks to come, your baby will make substantial weight gains, as growth continues. Just keep reminding yourself that it is natural for your body to put on extra pounds during this time. After all, there is another life growing inside you, and it only stands to reason that you would grow some with it. Don’t get down, stay positive, and follow a sensible diet with little regard for what the scale tells you.