At 24 weeks pregnant you’re in a very important phase of the second trimester. Your baby is still growing, gaining weight, and developing the organs and systems he or she will need to live after birth. You’ll probably also start to notice more visible changes to your body as your pregnancy progresses.
24 Week Pregnancy Development
Your baby’s brain and nervous system are developing rapidly at 24 weeks. The lungs are also still maturing, but they are not fully developed yet.
Your baby’s face is beginning to take shape and the eyebrows, eyelashes and hair are developing. The baby also can move, such as stretching, kicking and turning.
The baby’s hearing is also developing. They may respond to sounds outside and inside your body, including your voice.
How Big Is the Baby at 24 Weeks?
At 24 weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of an ear of corn, but size and weight can vary from pregnancy to pregnancy.
Your health care professional may monitor your baby’s growth at prenatal visits and use ultrasound when appropriate.
Baby Movement at 24 Weeks
By now many pregnant persons can feel their baby move quite distinctly. Moves such as kicks, rolls and stretches might be easier to spot.
Every pregnancy is different and there is no such thing as a “normal” amount of movement. The important thing is to find out what is normal for your baby. If you notice a major decrease or change in movement, call your health care professional right away.
24 Weeks Pregnant Symptoms
Some common symptoms at this stage can include:
- Back pain
- Acid reflux (heartburn)
- Constipation
- Cramps in legs
- Increased vaginal discharge
- Slight swelling
- Pain from round ligament
- Trouble sleeping
- Appetite increases
- Braxton Hicks contraction
Braxton Hicks contractions tend to be irregular and do not become stronger or more frequent like true labour contractions.
Your Body Changes
As your baby grows larger, your uterus continues to grow. Your tummy is likely to be sticking out more and you might feel your posture or balance changing.
Others develop stretch marks on the abdomen, breasts, hips or thighs. Skin changes such as the linea nigra may also become more prominent.
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Prenatal Care – 24 Weeks
Regular prenatal visits are still important. Your health care provider may check your blood pressure, weight, how the baby is growing and other things about your pregnancy.
This is when you may be offered screening for gestational diabetes, depending on your healthcare system and individual circumstances.
If your healthcare provider has told you it is safe for you to exercise, continue to eat a well-rounded diet, stay hydrated, take the recommended prenatal supplements and stay physically active.
When to Get Medical Help
Call for medical help right away if you have vaginal bleeding, leaking fluid, regular painful contractions, severe abdominal pain, severe headache, changes in vision, significant swelling, or a significant decrease in your baby’s normal movements.
Conclusion
Your baby at 24 weeks pregnant Your baby is growing fast and developing important systems such as the brain, lungs and nervous system. Baby movements may also get stronger and more noticeable.
Keep up with your prenatal appointments and follow your healthcare professional’s advice to help support your health and your baby’s development as you get closer to the third trimester.