Week 23: Dad's Guide
Second Trimester • Baby is the size of a a football (nerf)
👶 Baby Update
Size: A football (nerf)
Baby is getting chubbier! Fat deposits are forming. Lungs are developing surfactant — the substance that helps them inflate after birth. Baby's skin is red and wrinkled but filling out.
💕 What She's Going Through
Swollen feet and ankles, especially by evening. Carpal tunnel symptoms (wrist pain/tingling). Backaches are a constant companion. She might snore now (swollen nasal passages).
💪 What You Should Do This Week
- ✓Buy her comfortable shoes — her feet may have grown a half size
- ✓Start interviewing pediatricians if you haven't — shortlist your top 2-3
- ✓Discuss your birth plan preferences — who's in the room, pain management, etc.
🚫 Don't Say This
“You're snoring now.”
Pregnancy swelling affects nasal passages. She knows. She's embarrassed. Get earplugs quietly.
🛒 Gear Tip
A footrest or ottoman near her favorite seat makes a huge difference for swelling. Elevation = relief.
🧠 Dad Hack
Put a pillow between her knees and one behind her back when she sleeps. Side sleeping setup = fewer complaints.