For many, week 23 is when pregnancy truly starts to be felt in everyday life. The belly grows, energy levels can fluctuate, and you might need more support and comfort than before. Here are practical tips on how to take care of your body and create calm around yourself, while the baby continues to grow.

It's normal for your body to feel different in week 23. Many experience, for example, an increased feeling of heaviness in the stomach, tension in the lower back and pelvis, and more sensitive breasts.

• Change position often: Stand up, stretch, or take a short walk if you sit a lot.
• Support your back: Try to stand with your weight evenly distributed and avoid "swaying" your lower back.
• Listen to your body: Plan breaks, especially if you experience Braxton Hicks contractions or tightness, and contact your midwife/doctor if you are concerned or experience new, strong pains.

In week 23, many will start to recognize patterns in the baby's movements, but this varies greatly from one pregnancy to another. Some feel distinct kicks daily, while others feel more gentle movements, especially if the placenta is anterior.

Sit in a quiet place, place a hand on your belly, and feel for 10-15 minutes. This can help you get to know your baby's rhythm without measuring or comparing with others.

As the belly grows, it can lead to a shifted center of gravity and increased strain on the back and pelvis. Support in everyday life can be relevant here, especially during longer walks, standing work, or physically active days.

A support belt can provide a sense of relief by helping to keep the belly "closer to the body" and reduce strain on the lower back. If you want to explore the options, you can find support belts. If you're looking for a specific product, you can check out the Maternity Support Belt.

Breasts can grow and become more sensitive in the 2nd trimester, and here fit and support are important. It's a good idea to avoid bras with underwire during pregnancy, as underwire can irritate and, in the worst case, affect milk ducts. Instead, choose a model with flexible support that adapts to your changing body.

If you want extra support with an alternative to underwire, you can check out the Gel-Support Maternity Nursing Bra 3.

As your body changes, a seamless design can be an advantage because it typically feels smoother against the skin and adapts more easily to a belly that grows week by week. Look for materials and fits that don't pinch and can be used both at home and out.

If you want to keep it simple with an everyday bra, you can check out the Seamless Original Maternity Nursing Bra 3.

If you are at a stage in your pregnancy where you desire a bit more comfort in everyday life, these 1-3 choices may be relevant:

• For belly and back support when under strain.
• For flexible support without underwire.
• If you want a seamless bra that can adapt to your body throughout pregnancy and into breastfeeding.