24 weeks pregnant

You at 24 weeks pregnant

You might be able to feel your baby moving from the outside now, by putting your hand on your belly.

As your baby gets bigger, you and others will be able to see your baby moving. Towards the very end of your pregnancy, you might even be able to recognise some body parts.

Other people might comment on your belly or even touch your belly, even if you haven’t asked them to. It’s OK to tell people not to do this if it makes you uncomfortable – it’s your body.

pregnancy illustration, week 24

Blood sugar test for gestational diabetes
You might have this test at 24-28 weeks of pregnancy. If you’ve had a previous pregnancy with gestational diabetes or have a high chance of developing the condition, you’ll probably be offered a test earlier than this. Ask your doctor or midwife for more information.

Planning some help
It’s a good idea to plan practical and emotional ‘back-up’ for after your baby is born. For example, could extended family, friends or other people cook you a meal, drop in for a visit, or give you a call? You don’t have to do everything if others are willing to lend a hand.

It’s OK to ask for help too. In fact, many people will appreciate it if you tell them exactly what you need.

If you haven’t felt your baby move by now, it’s important to call your doctor or midwife immediately.

Your baby when you’re 24 weeks pregnant

Your baby:

measures about 21 cm in length and weighs about 630 g
still looks thin, because the ‘fattening up’ process hasn’t really started
has a layer of fat developing underneath the skin, so the skin is less see-through
likes to move when you’re trying to sleep – this is why you might feel your baby’s movements more at night
might be hiccupping, which might feel like tiny waves of regular movements in your belly – this is completely normal.

Some babies could survive if born now. But they are regarded as extremely premature. They need help to breathe and would have to spend a long time in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).