Congratulations on reaching 24 weeks in your pregnancy journey! This week, we’ll discuss what’s happening with both your body and your baby, along with some tips to ensure a healthy experience.
Your Body at Week 24
Itchy Skin
As your body continues to stretch to make room for your growing baby, you might notice some itchiness, particularly around your abdomen and breasts. This is a common occurrence due to dryness, so don’t hesitate to apply moisturizer generously.
Increased Tear Production
You might find yourself tearing up more often. This is not just due to your hormones making you emotional; pregnancy can also make your eyes feel drier and more sensitive. Using artificial tears can be a helpful remedy for this discomfort.
Breast Milk Production
Although you still have a bit of time before your baby arrives, you may start to notice small amounts of breast milk, known as colostrum. This is completely normal, but if you don’t experience it, that’s also perfectly fine.
Your Baby at Week 24
At this point in your pregnancy, your little one is comparable in size to a burrito, weighing between 1 ¼ and 1 ½ pounds and measuring approximately 12 ½ inches long. Your baby is experiencing rapid brain development, with taste buds and lungs beginning to form. Additionally, surfactant, which is essential for lung function, is being produced. Adorably, your baby is also starting to sprout eyelashes and eyebrows.
Symptoms and Health Considerations at Week 24
Back Pain
It’s common for your back to start aching as you adjust to your new center of gravity from your growing bump. The added weight can place pressure on your lower back, leading to discomfort. If the pain becomes severe, consult your doctor. Meanwhile, practice bending at the knees when lifting and consider using pillows for support when sitting.
Constipation
While your bladder may be working overtime, your digestive system might be lagging. This is quite typical during pregnancy. To help alleviate constipation, incorporate high-fiber foods, stay hydrated, and aim for about 30 minutes of daily exercise. If you’re still struggling, it’s worth discussing with your healthcare provider.
Healthy Eating
As morning sickness fades, you may find yourself feeling hungrier. It’s essential to focus on nutritious options, especially foods rich in iron, folate, calcium, vitamin D, protein, and vitamin C. For more tips on healthy eating during pregnancy, check out this informative piece.
Glucose Testing
Your healthcare provider may suggest a glucose test to check for gestational diabetes around this stage. If diagnosed, rest assured it’s manageable and typically resolves after childbirth. Signs to watch for include excessive thirst and increased urination.
Watch for Pelvic Pain
If you experience significant or frequent pelvic pain, or if you notice any bleeding or unusual fluid leakage, contacting your doctor is crucial. These could be signs that require immediate attention.
For Expecting Parents of Twins
If you’re carrying twins, they are likely to weigh around the same as single babies at this stage, though they might be slightly smaller due to space constraints. In the coming weeks, they will begin to gain weight rapidly, so ensure you’re nourishing yourself to support their growth.
Remember to stay well-hydrated, aiming for at least a half-gallon of water daily, and consider using moisturizer to ease any itchiness around your belly.
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Summary
At 24 weeks pregnant, your baby is growing rapidly, and you may experience various symptoms, including back pain and increased hunger. It’s vital to maintain a healthy diet and stay hydrated. Be mindful of any unusual symptoms and consult your doctor as needed.