Week 23: Your Baby is the Size of a Large Mango
You may start to feel more uncomfortable as your belly grows. Sleep can become challenging, and you might need extra pillows for support. Some women experience carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms - tingling or numbness in the hands.
Your baby at week 23
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Size of a Large mango
Baby Development
The baby now weighs about 500 grams. The skin is still thin and translucent but is starting to thicken. The baby can hear more clearly now and may startle at loud noises. Rapid eye movements (REM) have been detected, suggesting the baby may be dreaming. The lungs are not yet mature enough to function outside the womb, but development is progressing well.
Week 23 Highlight: Your baby weighs about 500g now - the weight of a small packet of sugar - and is reaching the threshold of viability!
Common Symptoms
Tips for Week 23
Elevate your feet regularly to reduce swelling.
Invest in supportive shoes for comfort.
Try a pregnancy support belt if back pain is troublesome.
Continue to monitor baby's movements - you should feel regular kicks.
South Africa Specific Info
Week 23 is considered the threshold of viability in many South African neonatal units. While survival at this stage is possible with intensive care, outcomes improve significantly each week. Major neonatal ICUs in SA (at hospitals like Charlotte Maxeke, Tygerberg, and Inkosi Albert Luthuli) have the capability to care for very premature babies.
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Frequently Asked Questions
About the Author
Due Date Calculator SA Editorial Team
Our content is reviewed by healthcare professionals familiar with South African maternal health practices. We combine evidence-based medical information with local knowledge to support South African mums throughout their pregnancy journey. Our team includes contributors with backgrounds in midwifery, obstetrics, and maternal health education.
Last reviewed: February 2026