Week 24 of Pregnancy
Your baby is about the size of a corn on the cob (21 cm)
Your Baby This Week
Development milestones for week 24
Congratulations on reaching 24 weeks pregnant - this is often called the "viability milestone." If born now, your baby would have approximately a 50% chance of survival with intensive NICU care, though every additional week in the womb significantly improves outcomes. Your baby is about the size of an ear of corn, measuring roughly 12 inches long and weighing about 1.3 pounds. The lungs are developing rapidly and beginning to produce surfactant, a substance that helps the air sacs inflate and prevents them from collapsing. Your baby's face is almost fully formed - they look like a miniature newborn, just thinner and with very little body fat. The inner ear is now fully developed, giving your baby a sense of balance and the ability to tell when they are upside down or right-side up. Your baby responds to light and may turn away from bright lights shone on your belly.
Your Body This Week
Changes you may experience
At 24 weeks pregnant, you might be feeling some new discomforts as your baby and belly continue to grow. Backaches are increasingly common as your center of gravity shifts forward and your spine curves to compensate for your growing belly. Shortness of breath may begin as your expanding uterus starts to push up against your diaphragm. You might notice Braxton Hicks contractions - your uterus tightening and then relaxing - becoming more frequent. These "practice contractions" are normal and help prepare your body for labor, but they should not be painful or regular. If you are feeling overwhelmed by reaching viability week, that is completely normal. Many parents find this milestone brings a mix of relief and new anxiety. It is okay to feel all the emotions that come with this significant point in pregnancy.
Tips & Advice for Week 24
Practical guidance from real moms
The viability milestone is a big deal, and it is okay to acknowledge it and even celebrate. Some parents mark the occasion quietly, while others share the news with family. Do whatever feels right for you. For back pain, try prenatal massage, warm compresses, and gentle stretching. A support belt worn under your belly can help distribute the weight more evenly. For Braxton Hicks, try changing positions, drinking water, or taking a warm bath. If contractions become regular, painful, or do not stop with rest, contact your provider. Start thinking about your glucose screening test coming up - you will drink a sugary solution and have your blood drawn an hour later. Many women say refrigerating the drink and drinking it quickly makes it more tolerable.
Medical Guidance for Week 24
What to discuss with your healthcare provider
Your glucose screening test to check for gestational diabetes is typically done between weeks 24-28. This involves drinking a glucose solution and having blood drawn one hour later. No fasting is required for this initial screening. If results are elevated, you will be scheduled for the three-hour glucose tolerance test to confirm or rule out gestational diabetes. Continue monitoring fetal movement and report any significant changes. Watch for signs of preeclampsia: severe headaches, vision changes, sudden swelling in face or hands.
Disclaimer: For educational purposes only. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.