pregnancy week 23

During your prenatal visits your doctor or midwife may feel your abdomen.  The reason is to determine the position of the baby.  A tape measure will also be used to measure your fundal height.  This is the top of your uterus and is a good indicator of the continued growth of your baby.  Some people will worry if they measure a bit too big or small, but it is completely normal to have slight variations from what is considered normal.  Always ask your healthcare provider any questions if you are worried about any procedure or unsure about what the doctor meant.

You may actually feel Braxton Hicks contraction, which are practice contractions most women feel during pregnancy.  This is how your uterine muscle prepares for labor and delivery.

The baby's fingernails are almost fully formed.  The baby is unaffected by the Braxton Hicks contractions.  Meconium, the baby's first bowel movement, is developing.  Baby weighs 1 pound 2 ounces (510 grams).