Pregnancy Calendar at Week 23
Mommy, hello!
We're celebrating your 23rd week, and I’m now the owner of a gorgeous mango! 🥭 I already weigh about 650 grams, and my length is 29.5 centimeters. Such a sweet and tasty little thing!
I actively work on my little lungs, taking deep breaths — 50 to 60 times a minute! Sometimes, I even swallow a tiny bit of amniotic fluid, but it helps me prepare for real breathing when we finally meet. And when I open my little eyes, I sometimes get a rush of excitement — like a little jig of life inside. It’s pretty amazing! 😄
My liver, skeletal bones, spleen, and thymus are all working together to create new blood cells. Plus, my pancreas is helping with digestion and producing insulin — I’m slowly becoming more independent!
I love to poke, push, and remind you that I’m right here. Your voice and the sound of your heart — that’s my favorite lullaby, the one I grow to. Thank you for being so caring and for making my little world so warm! 💖
Sending hugs and a little mango your way 🥭
What happens to you during pregnancy
At 23 weeks of pregnancy, many women notice that in the evenings their legs swell and veins become visible on the surface. These symptoms can be some of the first signs of varicose veins, caused by increased pressure in the blood vessels of the legs due to the growing uterus pushing on the veins in the pelvis. If you notice these veins, it’s a good idea to see a phlebologist.
Many future moms face this in the second trimester, when the uterus is already well-formed. At this point, a more intense training of the pelvic muscles begins, which can sometimes cause mild contractions, known as Braxton Hicks. To ease these sensations, it’s recommended to lie on your left side. Don’t worry if you experience some pulling or pain, or if your symptoms persist for a few hours—they can intensify or recur multiple times a day. If they do, quickly consult your doctor.
Uterus
Right now, your uterus is about 4 cm above the pubic bone. At this stage, it begins to form the path to the birth canal. A healthy, properly developed uterus and an average brain weight of around 10 grams at first trimester will increase to about 100 grams by 23 weeks. It’s a good idea to start planning your birth, as this can help your future labor be smoother and less stressful.
Medical Examination
Doctors
- A consultation with an obstetrician-gynecologist is necessary if you experience any complaints during pregnancy.
Analyses
- A general urine analysis helps detect kidney and bladder infections. At this stage, it can contain acetone, indicating a problem with the knees. It’s also important to rule out diabetic and gestational obesity.
Examinations
- Uzi (ultrasound), if not done by the 22nd week. This study is essential for a timely diagnosis of possible complications and for excluding potential risks. The doctor will evaluate the course of pregnancy, examine the size and condition of the uterus, and determine the location of the placenta. Do not worry if the placenta appears low; it often rises as the pregnancy progresses. Additionally, if your baby is lying favorably, you can find out its gender, unless it was not possible earlier.
Difficulties and Concerns
At 23 weeks, most women feel good. However, if you notice any of the following symptoms, it’s important not to delay contacting your doctor:
- Excessive weight gain, swelling, salt retention, excess weight, and headaches. Incorrect nutrition can increase the risks of such complications as gestational diabetes, late gestosis, swelling, and breathing difficulties.
What Not to Do During Pregnancy:
- Continue taking vitamin complexes for normal fetal development;
- Engage in sex with your partner in the absence of contraindications, such as complicated or multiple pregnancies, or threat of miscarriage;
- Breathe fresh air, do moderate physical exercises, and practice breathing gymnastics;
Visit theaters, exhibitions, and cinemas;
Work if your well-being allows it. It’s also important to avoid prolonged static poses. During high epidemic periods, avoid crowded public places. It’s advisable to visit crowded events only with your doctor’s approval.
How to Manage Your Pregnancy:
- Continue to take vitamin supplements for normal fetal development;
- Engage in sex with your partner if there are no contraindications, such as complicated or multiple pregnancies, or a threat of miscarriage;
- Breathe fresh air, moderate exercise, and practice breathing exercises;
Pregnancy distortions:
- Excessive weight gain;
- Gestational diabetes;
- Gestational vein enlargement.
Reduce physical activity and risks of complications during pregnancy after the 23rd week. All medications and restrictions should be discussed with your doctor.
Why You Shouldn't:
- Exceeding the normal weight gain;
- Gestational diabetes in pregnant women;
- Varicose veins.
Disadvantages of Pregnancy
The development halt and miscarriage of the fetus more often occur in the first trimester, but the risk remains in later periods. Pregnancy can only be diagnosed through examination by a gynecologist and conducting Uzi evaluations. Confirmed pregnancy requires monitoring of the course to prevent inflammatory processes, to monitor blood flow in the placenta, and to keep the fetus healthy.
Avoid:
- Excessive weight gain;
- Gestational diabetes;
- Swelling of veins.
How To Reduce Risks of Complications
A healthy, balanced diet, medical supervision, and adherence to your doctor’s recommendations can significantly lower risks of high-epidemic complications, gestational hypertension, and preeclampsia.
It’s advisable to avoid mass events and travel long distances by plane or train during pregnancy.
Eating Right
Just like we discussed, your diet should be balanced and full of nutrients. It’s important to include enough fats, Carbohydrates, and proteins, with proteins taking the lead in your meals.
Vitamins play an important role, so don’t forget to eat fresh fruits and vegetables daily. It’s also key to maintaining a healthy gut and keeping your metabolism running smoothly.
Here’s what would be ideal:
- Switch to small meals: 5-6 times a day, including three main eating times (breakfast, lunch, dinner) and snacks;
- Limit or completely exclude alcohol and foods that are rich in caffeine (coffee, tea, energy drinks, chocolates, energy bars, coffee-flavored snacks, and fats).
During pregnancy, it’s crucial that future moms stick to a healthy and balanced diet, heavily focused on normal liver function and providing enough nutrients for the developing baby. A good daily intake of calcium is about 10-15 mg, which can be found in dairy, fish, chicken, eggs, and grain products.
In addition, some foods like fish, shellfish, marrows, red and black caviar, nuts, and seaweed are beneficial for pregnant women. The daily calcium intake should not exceed 50 mg, as excess can pose health risks for the mother and baby.
Magnesium is essential for proper growth of the fetus and prevent malformations and internal organ development issues. It is found in pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, spinach, kidney beans, salmon, and fatty fish. Approximating around 300 mg daily is recommended.
Vitamin E, known as the beauty vitamin, supports healthy skin and has a beneficial effect on the formation of the placental tissues and the brain of the fetus. It is found in walnuts, almonds, avocado, sea buckthorn, and various oils like castor, olive, and coconut oil.
Vitamin B9
During pregnancy, folic acid (Vitamin B9) is a key component. It ensures proper development of the central nervous system and the baby's brain. The recommended daily intake is about 600-700 mcg. You can find this vitamin in citrus fruits, almonds, apricots, spinach, beets, strawberries, kiwis, red and black currants, and mangoes.
Vitamin B2 also boosts the immune system during pregnancy. It helps grow and develop the fetus, supports overall metabolism, and can be found in dairy products, eggs, meats, greens, and fish.
It plays an important role in the sensory regulation of the blood and nervous systems, especially relevant in the third trimester. The daily dose should be at least 1500 mcg. Excessive intake can lead to life-threatening reactions in the mother, especially when using medications or B vitamins. A daily dose should not exceed 50 mg.
Cobalt activates only Vitamin B12, a microelement that normalizes the functioning of blood-forming organs, helps protect the fetus up to 3 months from rickets and severe bone deformities.
It is also present in fish oils, cod liver oil, red caviar, seafood, and fish. For convenience, it can be taken in pill form.
Magnesium contributes to normal growth and helps prevent malformations and internal organ anomalies in the baby, such as cleft lip and palate, and also supports the muscles.
For normal absorption and utilization of all necessary micronutrients and minerals, it is important to adhere to their appropriate daily intake. Balanced nutrition helps prevent vitamin deficiencies, especially when using medications and B vitamins.
Important! Choose a comprehensive multivitamin complex based on your obstetrician-gynaecologist’s recommendations.
Useful Tips
If you start to swell your legs in the evening, it is recommended to consult a phlebologist. At home, lie down with some pillows under your knees. You can also place a pillow or turn your legs onto the back of the sofa.
Additionally, perform special exercises for the legs to improve blood flow. For example, standing on the spot, lift your heels and then drop your heels to the floor, or sit with your feet on a chair and lift them up and down.
During pregnancy, a woman can experience more unpleasant symptoms: back pain, leg swelling, varicose veins, and others. If your father can make a relaxing massage after work, his wife will be very grateful. Here are some simple tips:
- Shoulder and back massage: Make circular movements, carefully knead the palm with your fingers. Better if the future mother will be standing on her knees on the couch or sitting, turning her back. Pay special attention to the lumbar zone.
- Leg ice massage: Carefully spread the muscles, gently squeeze, but not too hard to restore blood circulation and relax the body.
- Massage finish: End with relaxation with a gentle stroke.
Exercises for Future Moms
Physical activity plays an important role in supporting future moms. It helps you feel better and prepares your body for childbirth. Together with your doctor, you can choose the most suitable exercises for your pregnancy. It is recommended to listen to your body during workouts, especially during elliptical training, swimming, and specialized pregnancy exercise classes.
However, it's best to avoid running and other high-impact exercises because they can cause a sudden spike in blood pressure, which is not good for expecting mothers.
It's also advised to focus on exercises that use your own weight, which helps relieve overall tension and strengthen the pelvic muscles in preparation for labor. Be careful with movements that involve lying on your back, such as various crunches and sit-ups, especially in the zone of your pelvis and lower back.
Troubles During Pregnancy
During pregnancy, a woman’s immune system weakens, making it especially important to pay attention to preventive care, particularly during the cold season.
Acute Respiratory Infections
COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses often come with symptoms like high fever, cough, sore throat, and a sore or scratchy throat. At the first signs of illness, be sure to reach out to your healthcare provider for an exam and advice on treatment. It's recommended to stay well-hydrated, soothe your throat with warm tea infused with honey and salt, and use a humidifier. When coughing, it can help to use lozenges or children's warming remedies that are safe for the baby and your own comfort.
Backaches
As the pregnancy progresses, hormonal changes and the growing size of the belly can put extra pressure on your bowels, which may lead to constipation and discomfort. Your doctor can help adjust your diet and suggest effective ways to ease these unpleasant symptoms. Remember, this stage isn’t dangerous for the baby, but it can be quite uncomfortable for you. It’s very important to complete your prenatal course before giving birth!
Varicose Veins
During pregnancy, hormonal shifts and increased blood volume can cause veins to become more prominent and develop varicose veins. Your healthcare provider can recommend strategies to improve blood flow and reduce discomfort, making this stage more comfortable. Avoid standing or sitting for long periods, and try to keep your legs elevated when possible. Regular exercise and wearing special support stockings can also really help manage symptoms and prevent further issues.
Constipation
As the pregnancy advances, hormones and the increased size of your belly put pressure on the intestines, which can lead to constipation. This can cause discomfort and make you feel sluggish. Drinking plenty of fluids, including warm herbal teas or pediatric-grade warm remedies recommended by your doctor, can help keep things moving smoothly. Maintaining a balanced diet rich in fiber and staying active are also key to avoiding this common pregnancy issue.
