Trimester 2
Week 23
Your baby is about the size of an orange.
Length: 28.9 cm · Weight: 500 g
Common this week: Nosebleeds, Bleeding gums, Tingling hands, Back pain, Heartburn, Swelling.
Baby development
- The lungs are developing specialised cells to produce surfactant (needed for breathing).
- The baby's skin is still wrinkled as fat fills in.
- The inner ear is now fully developed — balance and hearing are established.
- Blood vessels in the lungs are developing in preparation for breathing air.
Changes for you
- Increased blood flow can cause nosebleeds and bleeding gums.
- Your belly button may pop outward.
- Carpal tunnel syndrome (tingling hands) can occur from fluid retention.
- You may feel warm more easily due to increased metabolism.
Tips
- See your dentist if gum bleeding is persistent.
- For nosebleeds: sit upright, pinch the soft part of the nose for 10 minutes.
- If carpal tunnel is painful, wrist splints worn at night can help.
- Use a soft toothbrush and gentle flossing technique.
Appointments
- Routine antenatal check.
- If gestational diabetes risk is higher, discuss early GD screening with your provider.
Warning signs
- Severe headache
- Visual changes
- Sudden swelling of face/hands (preeclampsia signs)
- Regular contractions
Australian notes
- RANZCOG recommends universal screening for gestational diabetes in Australia between 24–28 weeks.
- The Glucose Challenge Test (GCT) is Medicare-rebatable.