24 Weeks Pregnant: Baby Development, Symptoms & What to Expect

How Big Is My Baby at 24 Weeks Pregnant?

At 24 weeks, your baby weighs approximately 600 grams (about 1.3 pounds) and measures around 30 centimeters (12 inches) from head to heel. The baby is roughly the size of an ear of corn, and their skin is becoming thicker with a protective coating called vernix caseosa.

Week 24 marks a significant milestone in your pregnancy journey. Your baby has been growing rapidly and is now entering a phase of continued refinement and maturation. The fetus has developed from a tiny cluster of cells into a fully formed miniature human with all major organs present, though they will continue to develop and mature over the coming weeks.

At this stage, your baby's body proportions are becoming more balanced. Earlier in pregnancy, the head was disproportionately large compared to the body, but now the body is catching up. The limbs are well-formed with distinct fingers and toes, and your baby spends much of their time practicing movements that will be essential after birth – stretching, kicking, and even practicing breathing motions with the diaphragm.

The skin, which was previously translucent, is now becoming thicker and more opaque. A waxy, protective coating called vernix caseosa covers the skin, protecting it from the amniotic fluid. Underneath the skin, fat deposits are beginning to form, though your baby will gain most of their "baby fat" during the third trimester. This fat serves two crucial purposes: it helps regulate body temperature after birth and provides energy reserves.

Lung Development at Week 24

One of the most critical developments happening at 24 weeks involves the lungs. The small blood vessels (capillaries) in the lungs are growing most rapidly between weeks 16 and 24. Your baby's lungs are now developed enough that if they were born this week, they might be able to breathe air with medical assistance.

The lungs are beginning to produce surfactant, a substance that prevents the tiny air sacs (alveoli) from collapsing when the baby breathes. However, surfactant production is still limited at this stage. Babies born at 24 weeks typically need respiratory support such as a ventilator or CPAP machine, and may receive synthetic surfactant to help their lungs function properly. The lungs will continue to mature significantly over the remaining weeks of pregnancy.

Sensory Development

Your baby's hearing is now well developed, which opens up new possibilities for bonding. The auditory system has matured enough that your baby can hear sounds from outside the womb – your voice, your partner's voice, music, and even the rhythmic beat of your heart. Studies have shown that newborns recognize voices they heard frequently during pregnancy, finding them soothing and familiar.

This is a wonderful time to start talking or singing to your baby. Reading aloud, playing music, or simply narrating your day can help strengthen the bond between you. Some research suggests that babies may even show preference for music or stories they heard repeatedly before birth.

Thumb Sucking and Reflexes

At 24 weeks, your baby can suck their thumb. This isn't just adorable – it's functional practice. The sucking reflex is essential for feeding after birth, and your baby is training this skill in the womb. You might even catch your baby sucking their thumb during an ultrasound examination.

Other reflexes are also developing. Your baby has a grasp reflex and may grab the umbilical cord or their own limbs. The startle (Moro) reflex is present, which you might notice as sudden jerky movements in response to loud noises. These reflexes are signs of healthy neurological development.

Can a Baby Survive If Born at 24 Weeks?

Yes, 24 weeks is considered the threshold of viability. Babies born at this gestation have approximately a 40-70% survival rate with intensive neonatal care, though this varies by hospital resources and individual circumstances. However, premature babies often need extensive medical support and may face long-term health challenges.

The concept of viability – the point at which a fetus could potentially survive outside the womb – is one of the most significant milestones of pregnancy. While viability is not a guarantee of survival or good outcomes, 24 weeks marks the point where survival becomes possible with advanced medical intervention.

Modern neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) have made remarkable advances in caring for extremely premature babies. However, it's important to understand that survival rates and outcomes vary significantly based on several factors:

• Gestational age: Each additional week in the womb significantly improves outcomes
• Birth weight: Higher birth weight is associated with better outcomes
• Sex: Female babies tend to have slightly better outcomes than males at the same gestational age
• Access to care: Outcomes are better at hospitals with Level III or IV NICUs
• Single vs. multiple pregnancy: Singletons generally have better outcomes than multiples

According to data from the NICHD Neonatal Research Network, survival rates for babies born at 24 weeks range from approximately 40% to 70%, with significant variation between centers. Among survivors, many will experience some degree of health challenges, which may include developmental delays, chronic lung disease, vision or hearing problems, or neurological issues. However, many babies born at 24 weeks go on to lead healthy, fulfilling lives.

What Body Changes Can I Expect at 24 Weeks?

At 24 weeks, your uterus has grown to about the size of a soccer ball and sits at or above your belly button. Common symptoms include Braxton Hicks contractions, itchy skin, hemorrhoids, back pain, and more visible fetal movements. Your blood volume has increased significantly to support your growing baby.

The second trimester is often called the "honeymoon period" of pregnancy because many women feel their best during this time. Morning sickness has typically subsided, and you're not yet experiencing the discomforts of late pregnancy. However, as you approach the end of the second trimester, you may start noticing some new symptoms as your body continues to adapt to your growing baby.

Your uterus, which started pregnancy about the size of a pear, has now expanded to approximately the size of a soccer ball. The top of your uterus (called the fundus) is at or slightly above your belly button. Your healthcare provider measures this distance – called fundal height – at each prenatal visit to ensure your baby is growing appropriately. At 24 weeks, the fundal height should be approximately 22-26 centimeters.

Your circulatory system has undergone dramatic changes. Your blood volume has increased by about 50% to meet the demands of pregnancy, which is why you may notice your heart beating faster or feel more easily out of breath during physical activity. This increased blood volume also explains why some women develop visible veins on their breasts, abdomen, and legs.

Weight Gain at 24 Weeks

By week 24, most women have gained between 6-8 kilograms (13-18 pounds) from their pre-pregnancy weight, though this varies based on your starting weight and individual factors. The second trimester typically involves steady weight gain of about 0.5 kilograms (1 pound) per week. This weight includes the baby, placenta, amniotic fluid, increased blood volume, breast tissue changes, and some fat stores that your body needs for breastfeeding.

If you're concerned about your weight gain – whether too much or too little – discuss it with your healthcare provider. They can help you determine if your weight gain is appropriate for your individual situation and provide guidance on nutrition.

What Are Braxton Hicks Contractions?

Braxton Hicks contractions are practice contractions that help your uterus prepare for labor. At 24 weeks, you may start feeling these irregular, usually painless tightenings of your uterus. Unlike true labor contractions, they don't get progressively stronger or more frequent and typically stop when you change positions or rest.

Named after the English doctor who first described them in 1872, Braxton Hicks contractions are a normal part of pregnancy. They're essentially your uterus "exercising" and preparing for the hard work of labor and delivery. Some women notice them as early as the second trimester, while others don't feel them until the third trimester or not at all.

Braxton Hicks contractions feel like a tightening or hardening of your belly. You might notice your abdomen becomes firm and then relaxes after 30 seconds to two minutes. These contractions are typically:

• Irregular and unpredictable in timing
• Uncomfortable but usually not painful
• Felt in the front of the abdomen
• Relieved by changing position, drinking water, or resting
• Not increasing in intensity or frequency over time

Several things can trigger Braxton Hicks contractions, including dehydration, physical activity, a full bladder, or sexual intercourse. Many women find that staying well-hydrated helps reduce their frequency. If you're feeling contractions, try drinking a glass of water and changing your position – if they're Braxton Hicks, they should ease up.

Why Does My Skin Itch During Pregnancy?

Itchy skin during pregnancy is common and usually caused by skin stretching over your growing belly. Moisturizing can help relieve mild itching. However, intense itching, especially on your palms and soles, could indicate intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP), a liver condition that requires medical attention.

As your pregnancy progresses and your belly grows, your skin stretches to accommodate your expanding uterus. This stretching can cause itching, particularly on your abdomen, but also on your breasts, thighs, and hips. The stretching may also lead to stretch marks (striae gravidarum), which appear as pink, red, or purplish streaks on the skin.

Hormonal changes during pregnancy can also affect your skin. Some women experience increased skin dryness, while others may notice changes in skin pigmentation. The "linea nigra" – a dark line running from your belly button to your pubic bone – may become more prominent around this time.

To relieve mild pregnancy itching:

• Moisturize regularly: Apply a fragrance-free moisturizer to your belly, breasts, and other areas prone to itching
• Avoid hot showers: Hot water can dry out your skin and make itching worse
• Wear loose, breathable clothing: Cotton fabrics are gentler on sensitive skin
• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps keep your skin hydrated from the inside
• Avoid scratching: Scratching can damage your skin and make itching worse

Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy (ICP)

While most pregnancy itching is harmless, severe itching – particularly on your palms and soles – can be a sign of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP), a liver condition that affects about 1-2% of pregnancies. ICP typically develops in the third trimester but can occur earlier.

In ICP, bile acids build up in the bloodstream because the liver isn't processing them normally. This can cause intense itching, often worse at night, without a visible rash. ICP is important to diagnose because it can increase the risk of complications, including preterm birth and stillbirth. The condition is diagnosed through blood tests that check liver function and bile acid levels.

If you experience intense itching, especially on your hands and feet, contact your healthcare provider. If ICP is diagnosed, you'll be monitored more closely for the remainder of your pregnancy, and your healthcare team may recommend earlier delivery to reduce risks to your baby.

How Can I Manage Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy?

Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the rectal area that affect up to 50% of pregnant women. They're caused by increased blood volume, pressure from the growing uterus, and constipation. Prevention and treatment focus on avoiding constipation through diet, staying hydrated, and not straining during bowel movements.

Hemorrhoids are a common and often uncomfortable pregnancy symptom. During pregnancy, your body produces more blood to support your growing baby, and the veins in your rectal area can become swollen. Additionally, your enlarging uterus puts pressure on the veins in your pelvic region, which can slow blood return from the lower body and cause veins to become enlarged.

Constipation, which is common during pregnancy due to hormonal changes and iron supplements, can make hemorrhoids worse. Straining during bowel movements puts additional pressure on rectal veins.

Hemorrhoids can be internal (inside the rectum) or external (outside the anus). Symptoms may include:

• Itching or irritation around the anus
• Pain or discomfort, especially when sitting
• Swelling around the anus
• Bleeding during bowel movements
• A lump near the anus

To prevent and manage hemorrhoids during pregnancy:

• Prevent constipation: Eat a high-fiber diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Stay hydrated: Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water daily
• Exercise regularly: Physical activity helps keep things moving through your digestive system
• Don't delay: Go to the bathroom when you feel the urge – don't hold it
• Avoid straining: Don't push forcefully during bowel movements
• Take sitz baths: Sitting in warm water for 10-15 minutes can provide relief
• Use appropriate products: Ask your healthcare provider about safe topical treatments or stool softeners

Most pregnancy-related hemorrhoids improve after delivery when the pressure from the uterus decreases. Talk to your healthcare provider if hemorrhoids are causing significant discomfort or if you notice bleeding.

What Prenatal Tests Are Done Around Week 24?

Between weeks 24-28, most pregnant women undergo glucose screening to check for gestational diabetes. This test involves drinking a glucose solution and having blood drawn after one hour. Regular prenatal appointments also include blood pressure checks, urine tests, fundal height measurement, and listening to the baby's heartbeat.

Prenatal care continues to be important throughout your pregnancy. At your prenatal appointments around week 24, your healthcare provider will typically:

• Check your blood pressure
• Test your urine for protein and glucose
• Measure your fundal height
• Listen to your baby's heartbeat
• Discuss any symptoms or concerns you have
• Review your weight gain

Glucose Screening Test

One of the most important tests around this time is the glucose screening test (also called the glucose challenge test or GCT), typically performed between weeks 24 and 28. This test screens for gestational diabetes, a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy and affects about 6-9% of pregnancies.

For the standard glucose screening test:

1. You drink a sweet glucose solution containing 50 grams of sugar
2. After one hour, a blood sample is taken to measure your blood glucose level
3. You don't need to fast before this test

If your blood glucose is above the threshold (usually 130-140 mg/dL, depending on your healthcare provider's guidelines), you'll need a follow-up test called the glucose tolerance test (GTT). This longer test requires fasting overnight, drinking a stronger glucose solution, and having blood drawn at multiple intervals over 2-3 hours.

Gestational diabetes is important to diagnose and manage because uncontrolled blood sugar can lead to complications including a larger-than-average baby (macrosomia), which can complicate delivery, and increased risk of preeclampsia and type 2 diabetes later in life for the mother. With proper management through diet, exercise, and sometimes medication, most women with gestational diabetes have healthy pregnancies and babies.

Rhogam Injection

If you have Rh-negative blood type and your baby might be Rh-positive (because the father is Rh-positive or unknown), you'll receive a Rhogam (anti-D) injection around week 28. This injection prevents your body from producing antibodies against your baby's blood cells, which could cause problems in this or future pregnancies. This is a routine procedure for Rh-negative mothers and is very safe.

What Should Baby Movements Feel Like at 24 Weeks?

At 24 weeks, baby movements are becoming stronger and more noticeable. You may feel distinct kicks, punches, rolls, and hiccups. Others can now feel and sometimes even see your baby move from outside your belly. While formal kick counting typically starts around week 28, you should be feeling regular movement by now.

Feeling your baby move is one of the most exciting parts of pregnancy. By week 24, most women are feeling clear, regular movements. Early movements (often called "quickening") that felt like flutters or bubbles have now developed into unmistakable kicks, punches, and rolls.

Your baby is most active when:

• You've just eaten (the sugar from food gives baby an energy boost)
• You're lying down or resting
• In the evening or at night
• After you've had something cold to drink
• In response to sounds or your voice

At 24 weeks, your baby may also have hiccups, which feel like rhythmic, repetitive little jerks or pulses in your belly. Hiccups are normal and thought to be related to your baby practicing breathing movements and swallowing amniotic fluid. They can last from a few minutes to half an hour and are nothing to worry about.

By now, your baby's movements may be strong enough that others can feel them from outside your belly. Some movements might even be visible as little bumps or waves on your abdomen. This is a wonderful time to share the experience with your partner or other family members.

What Chemicals Should I Avoid During Pregnancy?

Many chemicals can cross the placenta and potentially affect your baby's development. Avoid exposure to unnecessary chemicals including certain cleaning products, pesticides, paint fumes, and some personal care products containing retinoids or certain preservatives. Choose pregnancy-safe alternatives and ensure good ventilation when using any chemical products.

The placenta, while providing essential nutrients and oxygen to your baby, cannot filter out all harmful substances. Many chemicals can pass through to your baby, which is why it's important to minimize exposure to potentially harmful substances during pregnancy.

Chemicals to be cautious about include:

• Retinoids: Found in some anti-aging creams and acne treatments – can cause birth defects
• Certain cleaning products: Especially those with strong fumes – use in well-ventilated areas
• Paint and solvents: Avoid oil-based paints and ensure good ventilation with water-based paints
• Pesticides and herbicides: Minimize exposure to garden chemicals
• Phthalates and parabens: Found in some cosmetics and personal care products
• BPA: Found in some plastics – avoid heating food in plastic containers

Tips for reducing chemical exposure:

• Read product labels and look for pregnancy-safe alternatives
• Ensure good ventilation when using any chemical products
• Wear gloves when handling cleaning products
• Choose fragrance-free or naturally-scented products
• Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly
• Let someone else handle painting or using strong chemicals when possible

If your job involves exposure to chemicals, talk to your healthcare provider and employer about any necessary accommodations. Many workplaces have policies to protect pregnant employees from hazardous exposures.

Frequently Asked Questions