Week 24 of Pregnancy

At 24 weeks pregnancy your baby is 22 weeks old. If you drink something strange or bitter your baby may be observed showing his or his distaste. 36% of babies can survive premature birth at 24 weeks; however, serious complications are still possible. Around this time your doctor may order a glucose tolerance test to check your body for gestational diabetes, which occurs in some women.

Changes in your body at Week 24 of Pregnancy

Now is a good time to rest when you baby rests as you should be able to notice a sleep pattern with your baby. You might notice your centre of gravity shifting which will make you automatically lean back a bit when standing. Fatigue is common at this stage of pregnancy but if you are suffering very often (not just occasional), see your antenatal clinic for a blood test. You might be suffering form anaemia which is lack of iron. This is easily treated by adding iron supplements to your diet.

Changes you may experience during the 24th week of pregnancy include: :

• Braxton Hicks contractions - this is where your uterus or abdomen is tightening
• Headaches might be experienced
• Tiredness

Baby's Development at Week 24 of Pregnancy - Baby size: 30cm

Your baby will gain about 3 ounces this week and most of the weight is in muscle, bone mass and organs.

Some typical developments which occur during the 24th week of pregnancy are:

• Baby is now gaining around 3 ounces (90 grams) a week
• The eyelids can be seen very clearly
• Baby is producing surfactant - this helps air sacs inflate easily
• Baby will be covered with a fine downy hair
• Lungs are developing branches of the respiratory tree