Pregnancy week 24
Week 24 of pregnancy includes a baby who is now about one pound and around 8 1/2 inches long. From this point on, strong kicks to the belly are not uncommon for the growing baby. As the baby grows, the room it has in which to develop begins to dwindle. The baby eventually goes into a regular cycle of sleep and this sort of wakeful exuberance. During week 24 of pregnancy, the baby’s organs, circulatory systems, central nervous system, and digestive and reproductive systems continue to advance. The lungs also continue to develop and branch out. Also, the amniotic fluid will begin to increase.
The 24th week of pregnancy, and on, is an important time to develop the bond between mother, father, and child. The baby can hear voices inside the womb and immediately upon birth, distinguishes those voices from everyone else in the room. Heartburn is a very common symptom of week 24 and on because, as the uterus grows, it places a heavy force on the digestive organs. As the capillaries of the respiratory tract enlarge and the lung muscles loosen up, because of certain pregnancy hormones, breathing may become heavier. The expanding uterus also places pressure on the diaphragm and doesn’t leave much room to take deep breaths.
Gestational diabetes should be tested for during this time period and is usually done so via a glucose screening. Women who have high blood sugar levels for the duration of their pregnancies are diagnosed with gestational diabetes. Although the causes are not certain, it is thought that this occurs because the hormones that help the baby grow in the placenta hinder the insulin in the mother’s body. Hence, the mother develops insulin resistance which makes it nearly impossible for the mother’s body to employ her insulin. Since three times as much insulin is needed to sustain the mother, the extra glucose crosses the placenta and gives the baby high blood sugar. The baby’s body then makes extra insulin. Since the extra energy is not being spent, the baby builds layers of fat in a condition known as macrosomia. This extra weight can cause problems during birth and later on in life. Symptoms include fatigue, queasiness, extreme thirst, and frequent urination. Exercise, diet, and sometimes medication can help treat gestational diabetes.
Current guidance (today's medical sources): Week twenty-four is often described as around the point of viability, though much development remains and outcomes depend on many factors. The lungs and brain continue to mature. Screening for gestational diabetes is commonly offered between about weeks twenty-four and twenty-eight; a provider can explain the test and what the results mean.
Contact your healthcare provider promptly about heavy vaginal bleeding, severe or persistent abdominal pain, a high fever, severe or sudden headache, vision changes, or fainting. Seek urgent care if you are worried — these can be signs that need medical attention.
Sources: NHS — 24 weeks pregnant; ACOG — Gestational Diabetes; Mayo Clinic — Fetal development: The 2nd trimester. Informational only. See our sources & medical-review policy.
Frequently asked questions
How many months is 24 weeks pregnant?
Week 24 falls in the second trimester. Pregnancy is usually counted in weeks (about 40 in total) rather than months, because weeks are more precise.
What is happening to the baby at 24 weeks?
A point of viability is often described around now; the lungs and brain continue maturing.
What symptoms are common at week 24?
Glucose screening for gestational diabetes is commonly offered around weeks 24–28. Symptoms vary a lot from person to person; discuss anything that worries you with your healthcare provider.
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See the week-by-week guide →Informational only — not medical advice. Pregnancy Week to Week is a general educational reference. It is not a substitute for professional medical care, diagnosis, or treatment. Every pregnancy is different: always consult your doctor, midwife, or other qualified healthcare provider about your own pregnancy, and never disregard or delay professional advice because of something you read here. In an emergency, contact your maternity unit or local emergency number immediately.