You at 24 weeks pregnant: your belly and your baby’s movements

Your belly

Other people might comment on your belly or 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.

Your baby’s movements

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.

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

Your baby at 24 weeks of pregnancy

How big is your baby at 24 weeks?

Your baby measures about 21 cm in length and weighs about 630 g.

What’s happening with your baby’s development at 24 weeks?

Your baby:

• 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 hiccuping, which might feel like tiny waves of regular movements in your belly – this is completely normal.

What would happen if your baby was born now?

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).

Tests at 24 weeks: blood sugar test for gestational diabetes

You might have the blood sugar test for gestational diabetes 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.

Things to think about at 24 weeks: planning help for after the birth

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.