Second Trimester
Pregnancy Week 23
Your baby is about the size of a grapefruit 🍊 — lungs developing (but not ready).
🍊
Size comparison
≈ Grapefruit
Length
28.9 cm
Weight
501 g
Milestone
Lungs developing (but not ready)
About 17 weeks to go until your due date (week 40).
Baby's development at week 23
The lungs are producing surfactant — the substance that keeps air sacs inflated. The baby's face is fully formed. They sleep in regular cycles and may startle at loud noises.
Start thinking about birth preferences — a birth plan helps you communicate your wishes.
Common symptoms at week 23
Linea nigra prominentCarpal tunnel symptoms in someHot flushes
Eat more of
- ✓Omega-3 fatty acids (salmon, flaxseed)
- ✓Calcium & Vitamin D (cheese, eggs, sunlight)
- ✓Protein (chicken, legumes, eggs)
- ✓Iron + Vitamin C together for absorption
- ✓Magnesium-rich foods (nuts, seeds, dark chocolate)
Foods to avoid
- ✕Alcohol
- ✕Raw/smoked seafood
- ✕High-mercury fish
- ✕Unpasteurised cheeses (brie, camembert)
- ✕Processed meats (deli cuts, hot dogs)
- ✕Excess sugar
Medically reviewed by First OPD Medical Team. Last reviewed on .
Based on average milestones from World Health Organization (WHO), ACOG, NHS UK. Educational only — not a substitute for personalised medical advice.
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