All pregnancy weeks

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