WEEK 23
How does the baby grow?
Now, the baby can sense movements. The baby is more than 28cm long and weighs about 460 grams (the size of a large mango) so moms can see the baby squirming in the belly underneath clothes.
Blood vessels in the lungs are developing to prepare for breathing and the baby begins to get used to the sounds, even loud noises to prepare to integrate into the outside world.
Changes occurring in the mother’s body during the 23rd week of pregnancy
Moms may notice that the ankles and feet begin to swell slightly in the next few weeks or months, especially at the end of the day or in the summer. Sluggish blood circulation in the legs – together with chemical changes in the blood can cause water retention, edema. At this time, moms should lie on the left side or raise the feet up, stretch the legs while sitting, and avoid sitting or standing for a long time. Moms may have a tendency to reduce water intake to reduce edema, but actually it is necessary to drink a lot of water because drinking water will prevent water retention. While edema in the foot at a certain level is normal during pregnancy, excessive swelling can be a sign of a serious condition called preeclampsia. Therefore, it is recommended to go to the doctor if the feet or ankles swell severely or suddenly.
