Second Trimester · Week 23
23 Weeks Pregnant: Lungs gearing up
Baby development
Your baby at 23 weeks
Your baby's body is getting better and better at the work that will matter after birth — little by little, the lungs are preparing for the day they'll take that first breath. This is often described as a milestone week because so many important systems are maturing.
Your body this week
What you might be feeling at 23 weeks
Approaching viability is both reassuring and heavy. Your baby is getting stronger every day. You might notice Braxton Hicks contractions, swelling in your feet, and difficulty sleeping comfortably. A pregnancy pillow can be a lifesaver.
From Shelbi
Shelbi Kohler · mother of seven · certified birth doula
This is the week where a lot of moms start thinking about the endgame. You're approaching viability — the point where your baby could potentially survive outside the womb with medical support. That thought is both reassuring and terrifying. I remember with my first, someone told me about viability at this stage and I burst into tears in the middle of a grocery store. It's a heavy milestone. But it's also a beautiful one: your baby is getting stronger every single day, and the odds of a healthy, full-term delivery are overwhelmingly in your favor.
For you
This week is about getting through it
Scroll up to revisit your baby's development and Shelbi's encouragement for week 23. When you're ready, share this week with your partner.
Share this week
Save and share your week 23 card
Download a beautifully designed card with this week's illustration to share with family, friends, or on social media.
Card is 1080×1080 — save the image to share via iMessage, Instagram, or Facebook.
Common questions
23 weeks pregnant: your questions answered
What should I expect at 23 weeks pregnant? +
Approaching viability is both reassuring and heavy. Your baby is getting stronger every day. You might notice Braxton Hicks contractions, swelling in ...
Is my baby moving normally at 23 weeks? +
Movement patterns vary. If you notice a significant decrease in movement, contact your provider. When in doubt, always call.
Follow every week in the free app
Weekly baby updates, your birth plan, and doula-backed guidance — all free, all in one place.
Download the True Joy Birthing app