Pregnancy week 23

Trimester 2 · Baby is about a large mango

Lungs are developing surfactant, and hearing is sharp enough to recognise your voice.

How your body may feel

  • Swollen ankles at the end of the day.
  • Louder digestive noises and wind.
  • Backache with long standing.

Self-care this week

  • Take short walking breaks if you stand all day.
  • Elevate legs for 15 minutes twice daily.
  • Check your blood pressure at each visit.

Milestone

Ask about glucose screening timing at your next visit.

Seek care urgently if you notice

  • Severe headache that will not clear, or blurred vision and flashing lights
  • Any vaginal bleeding, or fluid leaking from the vagina
  • Sudden swelling of the face, hands or feet
  • Burning or painful urination, or fever
  • Reduced or absent baby movement once a pattern is established

Related resources

Related articles

Related FAQs

Related warning signs

  • Heavy bleeding — Soaking a pad in under an hour, or passing large clots
  • Severe headache that won't ease — Especially with blurred vision or sudden swelling
  • Difficulty breathing — Breathlessness at rest or when lying down
  • Chest pain or a racing heart — Pressure, tightness or fluttering that doesn't settle
Read the full warning signs guide

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