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Your Pregnancy at Week 24

This week, your baby is as big as a cantaloupe.

Explore your pregnancy at Week 24

Week 20
Week 21
Week 22
Week 23
Week 24
Week 25
Week 26
Week 27
Week 28

16 Weeks to go!

The following information was reviewed by Dr. Chor, Michael

At A Glance

Week-24

Rash

You may develop new skin symptoms such as itching or red rash. Please consult your obstetrician or dermatologist to confirm the best skincare approach for you as some creams will include substances such as retinol that can have adverse effects. 

Spotting

During the second trimester, some women may experience spotting or light bleeding during pregnancy. This can be caused by cervical changes, inflammation, or benign cervical polyps and is usually nothing to worry about. However, if you experience profuse bleeding, seek medical attention immediately.

Premature birth

Premature birth refers to births between 20 and 37 weeks of gestation. Risk factors include pregnancy intervals of less than 6 months, multiple miscarriages or abortions.. If you experience frequent contractions, abdominal pain, etc., you should seek medical advice.

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Baby Development at 24 Weeks

Eye blinking

Opening their eyes

At 24 weeks gestation, your baby is growing quickly and while their skin is still a bit sheer, it's getting cuter by the minute! They can open and close their eyes now.

sensory development

Sensory development

Baby's brain is growing rapidly and their senses continue to develop, such as their taste buds becoming more sensitive, their eyes responding to light, and their ability to hear sounds outside the womb. 

lung development

Lung development

The lungs are developing and special cells start to form that produce surfactant, helping the baby's lungs to expand so that that they can breath in air after birth. 

Your Pregnancy Symptoms at Week 24

Feel the vitality of the baby

Stepping into week 24, the top of your uterus is now just above your belly button. Baby moves more and more, you can put your hands on their belly to feel how alive they are! Others may want to touch your belly to say hello to the baby too.

Braxton-Hicks Contractions

From now on, you may start to feel contractions. When the uterine muscles tighten, there is a feeling of tightness or hardness, but they are not regular, which is different from labor contractions. They are your body's way of preparing for true labor. When you actually go into labor, there will be strong, regular contractions.

Darkening or brown spots on the skin

Pregnant women are prone to brown spots (also known as "hormone spots") due to hormonal changes. Light brown, dark brown, and/or blue patches or freckle-like spots may appear on the skin. Pregnant women are advised to use sunscreen with an SPF of 15 to 50 or higher, depending on the UV index. It should be applied 15 minutes before going out to prevent hormonal spots. 

Shortness of breath

Shortness of breath is common during pregnancy due to the mother's increased need for oxygen and the effects of progesterone on the lungs and the respiratory centre of the brain. While mild shortness of breath is normal during pregnancy, shortness of breath, persistent cough, and chest pain are all warning signs that require immediate medical attention.

Other possible second trimester conditions include:

  • Tiredness and sleep problems
  • Stretch marks appear
  • Swollen and bleeding gums
  • Headache, dizziness
  • Back pain
  • Nosebleed
  • Indigestion, heartburn
  • Bloating, constipation
  • Leg cramps
  • Urinary tract/vaginal infection
  • Mood swings
  • Vaginal white milky discharge and slight spotting

It is important to seek medical attention if you experience:

  • Contractions that become stronger, more frequent, or last longer
  • Persistent pain in the abdomen, back, or pelvis
  • Heavy vaginal bleeding
  • Your baby's fetal movements decrease or stop

Advice from OT&P Obstetricians

During 24-28 weeks, in addition to routine prenatal visits, screening for gestational diabetes will be done if necessary. In most cases, gestational diabetes is a temporary form of diabetes that usually resolves after delivery. Gestational diabetes occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin to regulate blood sugar levels during pregnancy. If you experience any of the following symptoms during pregnancy, please inform your doctor or midwife to arrange further examination.

Symptom of gestational diabetes may include:

  • Unusually thirsty
  • Frequent urination
  • Excessive Fatigue
  • Nausea

Tips for 24 Weeks Pregnant

Know the signs of preterm labor early, just in case. If you experience unusual discharge, vaginal bleeding, abdominal cramping, or amniotic fluid leaking, seek medical attention right away.

In addition to decluttering, cleaning, and preparing your baby's play space, consider home safety issues such as covering socket outlets and securing furniture and TVs to the wall to prevent them from falling over.

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