What to Expect at 24 Weeks Pregnant: Your Baby and Your Body

Reaching the 24th week of pregnancy is an exciting milestone! At this stage, you’re likely feeling more connected to your baby as their movements become stronger and more noticeable. Here’s what to expect during this week for both you and your growing baby.

Your Baby at 24 Weeks

Your baby is growing rapidly and making significant developmental strides:

• Size and Weight: Your baby is now about the size of an ear of corn, weighing around 1.3 pounds and measuring approximately 11.8 inches long.
• Skin and Appearance: The skin is still thin and translucent but starting to thicken. Fat is developing under the skin, giving your baby a plumper appearance.
• Brain Development: The brain is growing quickly, and neural connections are forming at a remarkable pace.
• Lung Progress: The lungs are developing surfactant, a substance that will help your baby breathe after birth.
• Movement: Your baby is getting stronger! You’ll likely feel kicks, stretches, and even the occasional hiccup.

Your Body at 24 Weeks

As your baby grows, your body is adapting in various ways. Here’s what you might notice:
Physical Changes

• Belly Growth: Your uterus is about the size of a soccer ball and sits just above your belly button.
• Weight Gain: Most women have gained about 12–15 pounds by this point.
• Braxton Hicks Contractions: These "practice contractions" may start around now. They are irregular and painless but can feel like mild tightening in your abdomen.

Common Symptoms

• Back Pain: Your growing belly shifts your center of gravity, which can strain your back.
• Swelling: Fluid retention may cause mild swelling in your hands, feet, and ankles.
• Stretch Marks: These may appear as your skin stretches. Use moisturizing lotions to soothe itching.
• Shortness of Breath: Your growing uterus may press on your diaphragm.

Emotional Changes

• Many moms-to-be feel a mix of excitement and anticipation. Take time to nurture your emotional health by journaling, talking with loved ones, or practicing relaxation techniques.

Health Tips for Week 24

1. Stay Active:
• Safe, moderate exercise like walking or prenatal yoga can reduce aches and improve your energy levels.
2. Hydrate and Eat Well:
• Focus on a balanced diet rich in protein, calcium, and iron. Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration.
3. Monitor Movements:
• Keep track of your baby’s movements to familiarize yourself with their activity patterns.
4. Prevent Stretch Marks:
• While there’s no guaranteed prevention, moisturizing creams with vitamin E or cocoa butter can help soothe your skin.
5. Know When to Call Your Doctor:
• Contact your healthcare provider if you notice severe swelling, vision changes, or a significant decrease in baby movements.

Important Considerations at 24 Weeks

• Viability Milestone: At 24 weeks, your baby reaches a crucial point of viability, meaning they have a chance of survival if born prematurely, though extensive medical care would be required.
• Glucose Screening: Your doctor may recommend a glucose test soon to screen for gestational diabetes.

Looking Ahead

With just a few weeks left in your second trimester, now is a great time to start preparing for the third trimester and your baby’s arrival. Take time to enjoy this stage, bond with your baby, and celebrate all the amazing work your body is doing.