“You’re not just growing a baby—you’re growing into motherhood with strength, softness, and endless courage.”
Welcome to Week 24 of your pregnancy. You’re now well into your second trimester, with just 16 weeks to go until your due date. At this stage, your body is blooming with new changes, and your baby is experiencing a period of remarkable development—especially in the brain and lungs.
It’s a time of preparation, bonding, and adapting to a new rhythm of physical demands. This week’s guide will walk you through your baby’s growth, your body’s transformation, and the emotional and practical steps to help you feel centered and empowered during your pregnancy journey.
Fetal Development at Week 24
At 24 weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of an ear of corn—measuring approximately 11.5 to 12.5 inches long and weighing around 1.3 pounds (600 grams). While that may not sound heavy, your little one is packing on fat and maturing fast!
- Brain and sensory growth: This week is a huge milestone for brain development. Your baby’s brain is growing rapidly, forming new neural connections, and beginning to process input from all five senses.
- Facial features: Eyelashes and eyebrows are now more pronounced, and the facial structure continues to take shape, giving your baby a more human-like appearance.
- Lung maturation: Although the lungs are still immature, the respiratory system is developing alveoli and surfactant, which will help your baby breathe independently after birth.
- Hearing: Your baby can hear and respond to external sounds, like your voice, music, or even a loud door slam.
- Movements: Stronger and more rhythmic kicks may be felt, especially after meals or when you rest. This is your baby’s way of practicing for life outside the womb.
Your Body at 24 Weeks Pregnant
Your uterus is now about the size of a soccer ball, and the top of it is around 1.5 to 2 inches above your belly button. As your baby grows, so does your need for balance, hydration, and self-care. Here’s what’s happening in your body:
- Round ligament pain: You may feel sharp, cramp-like pains on the sides of your abdomen due to stretching ligaments.
- Breathlessness: As your uterus expands, it can press against your diaphragm, making deep breaths a little more difficult.
- Skin changes: Hormonal shifts may lead to dry, itchy skin or the appearance of linea nigra (a dark line running from your pubic bone to your belly button).
- Swelling: Mild swelling in the ankles and feet is common. Stay hydrated, elevate your feet, and avoid standing for long periods.
- Increased appetite: Your baby is growing rapidly, and your nutritional needs are too. Stick to balanced meals rich in protein, iron, and calcium.
Common Symptoms at Week 24
- Backaches: The shift in your center of gravity and loosened ligaments can lead to back pain. Prenatal yoga and supportive pillows can help ease discomfort.
- Heartburn and indigestion: Avoid spicy and acidic foods, and try eating smaller, frequent meals.
- Leg cramps: Often occurring at night, these painful spasms may be linked to dehydration or low magnesium levels.
- Braxton Hicks contractions: These “practice” contractions may start around now. They’re usually irregular and not painful.
- Vaginal discharge: Increased leukorrhea (thin, white discharge) is common and helps prevent infections. Notify your doctor if it becomes yellow, green, or foul-smelling.
Emotional Wellness and Support
It’s not just your body that’s evolving—your emotions are too. Many expectant mothers at 24 weeks report feeling a blend of excitement and anxiety. Hormonal fluctuations, life changes, and the anticipation of birth can affect your mood.
Tips for emotional well-being:
- Practice mindfulness: Daily meditation or deep-breathing exercises can help calm racing thoughts and enhance your connection with your baby.
- Talk it out: Share your thoughts with your partner, friend, or a support group. You’re not alone in how you feel.
- Journal your journey: Writing down your hopes, worries, and changes can be deeply therapeutic and a beautiful keepsake later on.
Nutrition Tips for Week 24
Your baby’s growing brain and bones need proper fuel, and your body requires support to keep up with demand. Prioritize these nutrients:
- Iron: Vital for red blood cell production. Include leafy greens, lean meats, and fortified cereals.
- Calcium: Aim for 1,000 mg daily for strong bones and teeth. Include dairy, almonds, and broccoli.
- Omega-3s: DHA supports brain development. Include walnuts, flaxseeds, or doctor-approved fish oil supplements.
- Protein: Essential for fetal growth and repair. Lean meats, lentils, tofu, and eggs are great options.
Checklist for Week 24
- Schedule your glucose screening test (usually between Week 24–28).
- Begin researching pediatricians.
- Start thinking about maternity leave plans and paperwork.
- Consider signing up for prenatal classes.
- Keep tracking baby movements. Establishing a pattern is helpful in the third trimester.
Partner’s Corner
Your partner plays a huge role in this journey. Encourage them to attend prenatal appointments, ask questions, and bond with the baby by talking or playing music to the belly.
Offer each other emotional support. Remember—this pregnancy journey is a shared one.
Looking Ahead: What to Expect in Week 25
In the coming week, your baby will begin to gain more weight and develop distinct sleep patterns. Your own body will continue preparing for the final trimester. Keep reading our weekly guides for up-to-date, compassionate, and science-backed pregnancy information.
💗 You’re doing an incredible job. Breathe deep, stay hydrated, and know that you’re never alone on this journey.