Pregnant Woman at Week 23 of Gestation, Lateral View (Asian Skin)

Description

A lateral projection of the maternal torso shows the gravid uterus in situ, its wall depicted semi-transparently so the amniotic cavity and the fetus at approximately 23 weeks of gestation remain fully visible. The fetus lies in a flexed cephalic-tending attitude, head directed inferiorly toward the pelvic inlet, with the umbilical cord looping anteriorly from the abdominal insertion. The uterine fundus reaches well above the umbilicus, displacing the anterior abdominal wall forward, while the cervix, vagina, urinary bladder anteriorly and rectum posteriorly are outlined between the pubic symphysis and sacrum. Maternal surface landmarks, including the breast and the enlarged abdominal contour, frame the internal anatomy. Week 23 sits at the threshold of extrauterine viability, so this view supports discussion of fetal lung development, estimated fetal weight and the counselling that accompanies threatened preterm labour. The lateral orientation makes clear how the expanding fundus compresses the bladder and elevates the diaphragm, the anatomical basis of urinary frequency, gastro-oesophageal reflux and lumbar lordosis in the second trimester. Relationships between the cervix, internal os and presenting part are also the reference frame for cervical length measurement, fundal height assessment and Leopold manoeuvres. The figure suits obstetric and midwifery teaching, antenatal class handouts and clinic posters that track pregnancy week by week, and pairs with the earlier stages of this series to show progressive uterine growth. Publishers, patient-education designers and prenatal app developers can use it to illustrate fetal position, cord anatomy and maternal organ displacement without exposing distressing detail. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.