Pregnancy Week 24

What does my baby look like?

Your baby is now about the size of an ear of corn. You're in the sixth month of your pregnancy.

Even though everything is starting to look more proportional, your baby is still very small compared to a newborn at full term.

If your baby were born this week, there would be a chance of survival outside the womb. In that case, though, they would likely need intensive support in the neonatal unit for breathing, feeding, temperature control, and fighting off infections.

Face, hair, and skin development

Your baby's face is now quite well defined. Eyelashes, eyebrows, and hair have formed, though the hair may not have much noticeable pigment yet.

Because fat storage under the skin is still limited, the skin can still look thin and translucent. This appearance changes in the weeks ahead.

Brain and sensory development

During this stage, your baby's brain connections are working more and more actively. Your baby is getting better at processing signals from the sense organs. They can hear sounds and may start to tell the difference between sounds inside the womb and some sounds coming from outside.

Your heartbeat, coughs, tummy rumbles, conversations, and some sounds from the outside world can all be picked up by your baby. That's why talking to your baby, keeping them company in a calm tone of voice, or listening to music together can be a meaningful way to bond for some families.

What's happening in my body?

You may start to feel hungrier during this time. Gaining weight is also to be expected. Try not to compare the size of your bump with anyone else's — every pregnancy is different.

Alcohol

Giving up alcohol can be hard, but drinking during pregnancy carries risks for your baby.

• Alcohol passes to your baby.
• The risks include miscarriage, premature birth, low birth weight, learning difficulties, and behavioral problems.

If you need help or advice, talk to your doctor.

Your bump and measurements

Starting at week 24, your doctor may begin measuring your bump during prenatal checkups. This usually means using a tape measure to check the distance between the top of the uterus and the pubic bone.

Your bump looking large or small isn't a problem on its own. Baby bumps can vary a lot in shape and size. But if you're worried about your baby's growth, share that concern with your doctor.

The top of your uterus may now have risen above your belly button. Because of this, your belly button may pop outward. It usually returns to normal after birth.

Symptoms you may notice in the second trimester

You may notice the following symptoms during this time:

• fatigue and trouble sleeping
• stretch marks
• swollen and bleeding gums
• pain on the sides as the uterus expands (round ligament pain)
• hemorrhoids
• back pain
• nosebleeds
• indigestion and heartburn
• bloating and constipation
• leg cramps
• dizziness
• swollen hands and feet
• urinary tract infections
• vaginal infections
• darkening skin or brown patches on the face
• oilier, more breakout-prone skin
• thicker, shinier hair

You may also still have symptoms carried over from earlier weeks:

• mood swings
• morning sickness
• pregnancy cravings
• a heightened sense of smell
• sore or leaking breasts
• milky white vaginal discharge
• light spotting

Any bleeding should be checked out by a medical professional.

Skin changes and itching

Your uterus may now be about the size of a soccer ball. During this time you might notice itching, hyperpigmentation, bumps, or a hive-like rash. Many skin changes in pregnancy are harmless, but if you have intense itching, a widespread rash, or bothersome skin symptoms, check in with your doctor.

Hormonal changes can increase melanin production. This can cause dark patches on the face, especially on the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip. Areas that are already darker, such as the areolas and the genital area, may look even darker. These changes usually fade after birth.

In skincare, it's important to avoid products containing retinoids and to be careful about sun protection. If you have any concerns about your skin, talk to your doctor.

Stretch marks may become more noticeable on the belly, thighs, and breasts. It's not always possible to prevent them completely, but they usually fade after birth.

Light spotting

Some women have light spotting in the second trimester. This can sometimes be related to changes in the cervix, inflammation, or a benign cervical polyp. But if you have regular or heavier bleeding, get medical help right away.

Red, itchy palms

Some women develop redness and itching on their palms. While this is often a normal change that can occur in pregnancy, severe or widespread itching should be reported to your doctor.

Avoiding very hot water, long showers, and environments that warm the skin can be soothing. Some people find relief with a cool compress.

Dry skin and shower habits

If you're dealing with dry skin during pregnancy, very long, hot showers can dry it out even more. Choosing warmer (rather than hot) water, using gentle cleansers, and moisturizing after your shower can help.

Mood and emotional changes

Mood swings may have eased compared with earlier weeks, but they can also continue into the second trimester. Hormones, fatigue, stress, and physical discomfort can all make emotions feel more intense.

If your mood swings become more frequent or more intense, or last longer than two weeks, talk to your doctor.

Shortness of breath

Mild shortness of breath can be common in pregnancy. Increased oxygen demand and hormonal changes can contribute to it. But if you have trouble breathing, a persistent cough, or chest pain, seek medical attention right away.

Symphysis pubis dysfunction, or pelvic girdle pain

Pelvic girdle pain, which can cause aching in the pelvic joints, is common in pregnancy. For some women it can make movements like walking, turning over, or getting out of bed more difficult.

Carpal tunnel-like symptoms

Because of swelling, you may feel numbness, tingling, or pain in your hands and wrists, especially at night. Supporting your hands and wrists, taking breaks from repetitive movements, and using a wrist support if needed can bring relief for some people. These symptoms usually ease after birth.

Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are very common in pregnancy. Keeping the area clean and dry, not wiping too hard, and not sitting on the toilet for long periods can help with relief.

Increased appetite and weight

It's natural to feel hungrier in the second trimester. Your energy and nutrient needs rise to support your growing baby and your changing body. If you're worried about gaining too much weight, it's more helpful to focus on what you eat rather than how much. Foods with fiber, protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates can help you stay full longer.

Don't forget to floss

Gum problems can be more common in pregnancy. Brushing regularly and flossing can help reduce the risk of gum inflammation. Because untreated gum problems have been linked to some pregnancy complications, it's important not to neglect your oral health.

Line up help with meal prep

To make things easier in the weeks ahead, it can be a good idea to prepare freezer-friendly meals. Practical options like soups, casseroles, meatballs, hard-boiled eggs, and chopped vegetables can come in handy in the postpartum period.

Support for birth preparation

Some families consider the support of a doula as they prepare for birth and the postpartum period. Doulas don't provide medical care; their main role is to offer emotional and practical support during labor.

Choosing a pediatrician

As you get closer to your due date, it can be a good idea to start thinking about choosing a pediatrician. Having this plan in place ahead of time can make things easier for the first checkups after your baby is born.

Whooping cough vaccine

If you haven't had the whooping cough vaccine yet, you're right in the middle of the recommended window for it (weeks 16–32); you can talk to your doctor about it.

Gestational diabetes screening

Gestational diabetes screening is usually done between weeks 24 and 28. If your blood sugar levels come back high, you may need to review your diet, monitor at home, or have additional evaluation.

Excess weight, older age, a multiple pregnancy, a family history of diabetes, and certain metabolic factors can increase the risk.