Day 161 of 280, second trimester
You are 23 weeks exactly
You may be surprised by how strongly you feel about your baby, and this maternal instinct will grow every day.
119 days until your due date
Do you feel like a mom yet? Whether or not you think of yourself as maternal, you've already started becoming a mother instinctively. You may be looking after yourself better, eating well, and making lifestyle changes, not so much for your own health as for your baby's. You're likely to feel very protective of your growing belly, wanting the best for your baby and worrying about anything happening to him. It's fine if you don't feel this bond yet; every woman is different, and strong maternal feelings may not come until you're holding and caring for your baby.
Your partner may not have such a strong parental instinct, but the more you involve him, the closer he's likely to feel to his unborn child. Reading about the baby's development at each stage and going to some or all of the prenatal appointments with you will help him picture the baby and follow its progress.
Explainer
Always on your mind
Your baby will occupy your thoughts much of the time, and pregnancy makes most women act selflessly in their baby's best interests.
Focus on
Relationships: What's that, Mom?
If you already have a toddler, she'll be curious about why you've suddenly got so big! Keep it simple, something like "Mommy is growing a baby sister or brother, but the baby won't be here just yet." Over the coming weeks, explain more about what having a new baby means.
There's no need to explain how the baby got there or keep reminding her. Just answer her questions when she asks, without seeming too preoccupied with it.
Ask a Doctor
I've got the flu. Will it harm my baby?
No, your baby should be fine, but because your immune system is weaker in pregnancy, your symptoms may last longer. Drink plenty to stay hydrated and eat several small meals a day to keep your energy up. Call your doctor if you haven't improved after 24–48 hours or your temperature goes above 101°F (38°C).
Very few pregnant women have complications, but if you feel very unwell, especially if you have trouble breathing, see your doctor straight away. Ask a pharmacist before taking any over-the-counter medicine.
Appointments and key dates around now
- Whooping cough vaccineUsually around 20 weeks, best before 32 weeks
Read the full 23 weeks pregnant guide
This is general information based on NHS guidance, not medical advice, and every pregnancy is different. Talk to your midwife or GP about anything that worries you. If your baby's movements slow down or change, or you have bleeding, severe pain or leaking fluid, call your maternity unit straight away. In an emergency, call 999.