23 weeks pregnant

Scientifically, if your baby is born now, he or she has a chance to survive. However, keep hoping and praying that your baby won’t leave the comforts of the uterus just yet.

What’s Going on with the Baby

Ossification of your baby’s bones

Your baby now weighs 510 grams and the growth continues during this week. The bones (especially those in the middle ear) continue with their ossification. You may notice that your baby will begin reacting with a kick or a squirm to certain sounds such as a dog barking, a car honking, a phone ringing, and hopefully to the parents singing or talking. Don’t startle and worry the baby by playing loud music (especially those with heavy drum beats such as hip-hop) or shouting.

What’s Going on with Mommy

Braxton Hicks contractions

You may begin to feel Braxton Hicks contractions, a painless and intermittent tightening of the belly every 10 or 20 minutes. This is actually quite normal and is not a cause of worry. Start measuring your belly using a tape measure to get the fundal height to be able to monitor your baby’s growth inside the womb. If you are “too big” or “too small” (based on data mentioned in books or reputable websites), discuss this cause of concern with your doctor.

Now for Daddy

Just because she’s feeling better now than she was in the first trimester doesn’t mean she doesn’t need you just as much. During her pregnancy, try not to work too late and go home early in the evening so you can have more time to bond. Ask her how her day was, and let her know you’re there to help in any way you can. Remember, these are the last few weeks of being alone as a couple, so you should enjoy the time you have with your partner .

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