Week 24 Pregnancy: Your Baby’s Lungs Begin to Breathe

At week 24, your baby reaches an exciting milestone as their lungs begin to practice breathing movements, preparing for life outside the womb. They’re also producing pulmonary surfactant, which is essential for lung function after birth. During this week, you may feel stronger kicks as your baby continues to grow and develop. 

Missed last week’s edition? Catch up on all the details and key milestones from pregnancy week 23 here.

Week 24 body changes

At 24 weeks of pregnancy, you’ve officially entered the sixth month of your journey! By now, your uterus has grown above your belly button, and with your centre of gravity shifting, you might feel a bit unsteady or clumsier during everyday activities.

Your baby is becoming more active, especially at night, which can disrupt your sleep and leave you feeling more tired. This is completely normal as your body adjusts to the changes. Hormonal changes are also more noticeable now. The dark line on your belly, called the linea nigra, will continue to darken and become more visible.

If you’ve recently experienced higher energy levels or an increased libido, you may now notice a decline as your growing belly demands more energy, leaving you feeling more fatigued. It’s also common to feel hungrier during this time. Gaining about a pound per week in the second trimester is typical, but every pregnancy is different. If you’re worried about your weight, it’s a good idea to consult with your doctor for personalised advice.

Week 24 pregnancy symptoms

At 24 weeks pregnant, your body undergoes several changes as your baby continues to grow. Here are some common symptoms you might experience:

1) Side tummy and hip pain

• Discomfort from round ligament pain (a jabbing feeling or sharp pain often felt in the lower belly or groin area) as your uterus expands. Rest and change positions to ease it.

2) Headaches and migraines 

• Hormonal changes and certain triggers like caffeine can cause headaches. Limit caffeine to 200 mg per day, which is roughly 2 cups.

3) Clumsiness

• A shifting center of gravity may cause unsteadiness, which typically improves after delivery.

4) Nasal congestion

• Pregnancy hormones may lead to stuffiness. Staying hydrated and using a humidifier can help.

5) Swelling (oedema)

• Mild swelling in hands and feet due to fluid retention. Elevate your feet and stay hydrated to reduce it.

6) Heartburn

• Your growing uterus can press on your stomach, causing discomfort. Eat smaller meals and avoid spicy foods.

7) Braxton hicks contractions

• Irregular, painless uterine contractions preparing your body for labor.

8) Stretch marks

• Natural skin changes as your belly expands, which may fade over time.

9) Increased appetite

• A surge in hunger is common, but it’s important to still maintain a balanced diet.

10) Morning sickness

• Even at 24 weeks, symptoms like morning sickness can still persist for some. 

11) Fatigue or insomnia

• Baby’s activity may disrupt sleep. Rest when possible and establish a calming bedtime routine.

If you have any concerns or would like professional advice, Thomson Medical is here to support you. Request an appointment with us today.

Your baby at week 24

At 24 weeks, your baby is about the length of an ear of corn or an A4-sized sheet of paper, measuring approximately 30 cm (11.8 inches) from head to toe and weighing around 1.3 pounds.

Your baby is preparing for life outside the womb by practising breathing, inhaling and exhaling amniotic fluid. Their lungs are expanding and developing more branches and respiratory sacs which are essential for breathing after birth.

Although their skin is still wrinkled, your baby is beginning to fill out, and their facial features are nearly complete. If you have an ultrasound scheduled this week, you may even catch a glimpse of their adorable face and see hints of which parent they might resemble.

Pregnancy tests & screenings 

This week, your healthcare provider may recommend routine checks such as monitoring your blood pressure, weight, and urine to ensure both you and your baby remain healthy. These tests are designed to detect conditions such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, or urinary tract infections.

You may also undergo tests like the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) or the glucose challenge test (GCT) to screen for gestational diabetes. The OGTT requires fasting and measures your blood sugar levels over a few hours, while the GCT is a non-fasting test that assesses your risk.

For high-risk pregnancies or additional concerns, your doctor may suggest further screenings, such as preeclampsia monitoring or a foetal fibronectin test to assess the risk of preterm labour.

Preeclampsia monitoring tracks maternal and foetal health to detect high blood pressure and related complications, while a foetal fibronectin test assesses the risk of preterm labour by detecting a protein in vaginal secretions. Cervical length measurements may also be recommended to monitor signs of preterm birth.

Below is a summary of the key tests and screenings for this stage of pregnancy:

Learn more about our prenatal scans for each trimester here.

At Thomson Medical, we offer personalised pregnancy tests and screenings tailored to each week of your pregnancy. You can always request an appointment with us to discuss your pregnancy journey.

Preparing for Week 24 pregnancy

As you enter week 24 of pregnancy, it’s essential to stay informed and prepare for the physical, emotional, and logistical changes that come with this stage. Here are some tips to help you navigate this exciting week:

• Stay hydrated and eat balanced meals: 

  • Your growing baby and body need extra nutrients and hydration. For a healthy lifestyle, focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to support your baby’s development and manage your energy levels.

• Schedule your glucose screening test: 

  • If you haven’t already, plan for the glucose challenge test or oral glucose tolerance test, typically done between weeks 24 and 28, to screen for gestational diabetes.

• Address common pregnancy symptoms: 

  • Prepare for symptoms like round ligament pain, heartburn, and swelling by wearing comfortable clothing, resting frequently, and elevating your feet when necessary. Keeping antacids and supportive pillows handy as they can provide relief.

• Get enough rest: 

  • With increased fatigue or possible insomnia caused by your baby’s movements, create a calming bedtime routine and take naps whenever possible to stay well-rested.

• Consider prenatal classes: 

  • If you haven’t enrolled yet, week 24 is a good time to start looking into childbirth classes (antenatal classes). These prenatal classes can help you feel more prepared for labour, delivery, and newborn care.

• Prepare for baby movements: 

  • Your baby’s movements will become more noticeable and regular. Take time to bond by observing their activity patterns, and share any significant changes with your healthcare provider.

• Continue light exercise: 

  • Daily exercise like walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga can help alleviate discomfort, improve circulation, and prepare your body for labour.

• Communicate with your healthcare provider: 

  • Discuss any concerns or questions during your routine appointments. This is also a great time to check on your baby’s growth and discuss any upcoming tests or scans.

Eager to see what’s coming up? Dive into pregnancy week 25 to discover how your baby is growing and developing while learning how to manage the changes in your body. Alongside personalised care and expert guidance, you can also register for Thomson’s Courses & Workshops, designed to help you feel confident and informed throughout your pregnancy journey.

We understand that preparing for pregnancy can be overwhelming, and we're here to support you every step of the way. Request an appointment with us for personalised care and expert support to guide you through your pregnancy journey. 

FAQ

How can I tell if my pregnancy is progressing well at 24 weeks?

At 24 weeks, signs of a healthy pregnancy include feeling your baby’s movements regularly, experiencing steady weight gain, and having normal results from routine check-ups like blood pressure, glucose screening, and fundal height measurements. It’s also essential to monitor for any unusual symptoms such as severe pain, bleeding, or changes in baby movement patterns. If you’re ever unsure or have concerns, consult your healthcare provider for reassurance and guidance.

What is special about 24 weeks pregnant?

At 24 weeks, your baby reaches the milestone of "viability," with a chance of survival if born prematurely. They are about 30 cm long, practicing breathing, and rapidly developing their brain and lungs. You may notice stronger baby movements and body changes like Braxton Hicks contractions or mild swelling. This is also the time for gestational diabetes screening.

Why am I so big at 24 weeks pregnant?

At 24 weeks, your growing baby and expanding uterus contribute to your larger belly size. Your baby is rapidly developing, and your uterus has grown to accommodate them, now sitting above your belly button. Increased amniotic fluid, placenta growth, and weight gain are also factors. Every pregnancy is unique, so the size of your belly and your body size may vary and is usually not a cause for concern. If you’re unsure, consult your healthcare provider for reassurance.

What position should I sleep in at 24 weeks pregnant?

At 24 weeks, sleep on your side, ideally the left, to improve blood flow to your baby and reduce pressure on organs. Use pillows for support and avoid lying flat on your back to prevent reduced blood flow and discomfort.

What is the baby's position at 24 weeks pregnant?

At 24 weeks, your baby is still small and has plenty of room to move around, so their position can change frequently. They may be lying head-up, head-down, or sideways, and you might feel their movements as they shift positions. By this stage, they’re becoming more active, and their kicks and rolls are often noticeable. It’s too early for a fixed position for birth, as they will continue to move and adjust in the coming weeks.

What are the dos and don’ts for a healthy pregnancy at 24 weeks?

Dos:

• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.

• Get light exercise, such as walking or prenatal yoga, to maintain strength and circulation.

• Attend routine prenatal check-ups and screenings, including the glucose test for gestational diabetes.

• Sleep on your side, preferably the left, to improve blood flow to your baby.

• Listen to your body and rest when you feel tired.

• Use supportive shoes and avoid standing for long periods to reduce swelling.

Don’ts:

• Avoid consuming alcohol, smoking, or using recreational drugs.

• Limit caffeine intake to 200 mg per day (about two cups of coffee or tea).

• Steer clear of raw or undercooked meats, seafood, and eggs to reduce the risk of infections.

• Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities that could strain your body.

• Refrain from lying flat on your back for extended periods to prevent reduced blood flow.

• Avoid fatty foods: They can worsen heartburn and contribute to unhealthy weight gain.

• Avoid high-mercury fish, such as swordfish, shark, and king mackerel.

• Don’t ignore unusual symptoms like severe pain, bleeding, or changes in baby movements – always consult your doctor.

The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations and tailored advice, please consult a specialist at Thomson Medical. Request an appointment with Thomson Medical today.