At 24 weeks pregnant, you are in the second trimester and often described as about 6 months pregnant. This week follows 23 weeks pregnant, and the next page is 25 weeks pregnant.
Your baby may be about 20-30 cm long and weigh around 550-650 grams, though estimates vary. Movements are often easier to recognise now, and your baby can respond to sound, light changes and your activity level.
The skin is still delicate, but more fat is developing under it, so the baby gradually looks less wrinkled. Vernix caseosa protects the skin, and the heartbeat is usually much faster than an adult heartbeat. At this stage, premature babies need specialist neonatal care; viability and outcomes depend on many medical factors.
Your uterus usually extends above the belly button, and your belly button may flatten or pop out. Mild nosebleeds or bleeding gums can happen because pregnancy increases blood flow to the mucous membranes.
Many providers offer glucose screening around 24-28 weeks to check for gestational diabetes. Depending on your blood type and local guidance, Rh-negative patients may also have an antibody screen. Your clinician may also check haemoglobin, blood pressure and urine.
Weight gain supports your baby's growth, but dieting is not recommended during pregnancy. Focus on regular meals, fibre, iron-rich foods and safe sources of protein. Ask your clinician before taking new supplements.
Glucose screening checks how your body handles sugar during pregnancy and helps identify possible gestational diabetes.
Rh-negative means your red blood cells do not have the Rh factor. Some Rh-negative patients need extra blood tests or injections during pregnancy.
Vernix caseosa is the creamy coating that helps protect the baby's skin before birth.
At 24 weeks pregnant, your baby is growing quickly, hearing sounds, moving more clearly and developing more body fat. Your uterus is usually above the belly button.
Size estimates vary, but the baby may be about 20-30 cm long and weigh around 550-650 grams. Your ultrasound or clinical measurements are more useful than general averages.
24 weeks pregnant is in the second trimester. It is often described as about 6 months pregnant, although pregnancy months are not exact calendar months.
At 24 weeks, the uterus usually extends above the belly button. Exact position varies with body shape, previous pregnancies and how the pregnancy is dated.
Many people are offered glucose screening around 24-28 weeks to check for gestational diabetes. Rh-negative patients may also need antibody screening according to local care guidance.
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