What You Should Know at 24 Weeks Pregnant

You have reached 24 weeks, which means you are now six months into your pregnancy and entering an exciting phase. Your baby is growing rapidly, and you are likely feeling more movements each day. This is a meaningful milestone because your baby is reaching what doctors call viability, meaning that with specialized medical care, survival outside the womb becomes possible. Let me walk you through what is happening with you and your baby right now, and what deserves your gentle attention during this time.

What Is Happening With Your Baby at 24 Weeks?

Your baby is about the size of an ear of corn, weighing roughly one and a quarter pounds and measuring about 12 inches long. The lungs are developing rapidly now, forming the tiny air sacs called alveoli that will eventually allow your baby to breathe air. The brain is also growing quickly, with billions of neurons forming connections every day.

The skin is still translucent and wrinkled because fat has not yet filled out under the surface. Over the coming weeks, your baby will gain weight steadily, and that wrinkled appearance will smooth out. The eyelids are still fused shut, but the structures of the eyes are almost fully developed underneath.

You might notice more distinct patterns in your baby's movements now. Some women describe kicks, rolls, or even hiccups. These movements are signs that your baby's nervous system is maturing and muscles are getting stronger. It can feel reassuring to track these movements, though they might still be irregular at this stage.

How Is Your Body Changing at 24 Weeks?

Your uterus is now about the size of a soccer ball and sits roughly two inches above your belly button. This growth is completely normal and is making space for your growing baby. You might notice that your center of gravity has shifted, which can affect your balance and posture.

Many women experience increased appetite around this time because your body is working hard to support your baby's rapid growth. You need about 300 to 500 extra calories per day during the second and third trimesters, though this varies from person to person. Listen to your hunger cues, and focus on nutrient-dense foods when you can.

Your blood volume has increased by about 40 to 50 percent by now, which is why your heart is working harder than usual. This extra blood supports the placenta and helps carry nutrients and oxygen to your baby. It also explains why you might feel warmer than usual or notice your hands and feet swelling slightly by the end of the day.

What Symptoms Are Common at 24 Weeks?

You might be experiencing a range of physical changes now, and most of them are normal adaptations to pregnancy. Some will feel like mild annoyances, while others might need a bit more attention. Let me walk you through what many women notice around this time so you know what to expect and when something might need a conversation with your healthcare provider.

• Round ligament pain: These are sharp, brief pains on one or both sides of your lower belly. They happen because the ligaments supporting your uterus are stretching as your baby grows. The pain usually lasts just a few seconds and is more common when you change positions quickly or after a long day of activity.
• Backache: Your growing belly shifts your center of gravity forward, which puts extra strain on your lower back muscles. The hormone relaxin also loosens your joints and ligaments to prepare for birth, but this can reduce the support your spine normally gets. Gentle stretching, good posture, and supportive shoes can help ease the discomfort.
• Leg cramps: Many women experience sudden, painful cramping in their calves, especially at night. The exact cause is not entirely clear, but it might relate to changes in circulation, pressure on leg nerves from your growing uterus, or shifts in calcium and magnesium levels. Stretching before bed and staying hydrated can sometimes reduce these cramps.
• Heartburn and indigestion: The hormone progesterone relaxes the valve between your stomach and esophagus, allowing stomach acid to move upward. Your growing uterus also pushes on your stomach, which makes this worse. Eating smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding lying down right after eating can bring some relief.
• Increased vaginal discharge: You might notice more clear or milky discharge, which is called leukorrhea. This is your body's way of protecting your birth canal from infection. As long as the discharge is not foul-smelling, green, or accompanied by itching, it is perfectly normal.
• Swelling in hands and feet: Mild swelling, also called edema, is common because your body is holding onto more fluid and your growing uterus slows blood return from your legs. The swelling usually worsens by the end of the day and improves with rest and elevation. However, sudden or severe swelling, especially in your face, needs immediate medical attention.
• Braxton Hicks contractions: These are practice contractions that feel like a tightening or hardening of your belly. They are usually irregular, infrequent, and not painful. They help prepare your uterus for labor but do not cause your cervix to open. If they become regular, painful, or occur more than four times in an hour, you should contact your healthcare provider.
• Skin changes: You might notice a dark line running down the center of your belly, called the linea nigra, or darkening of the skin on your face, known as melasma or the mask of pregnancy. These changes happen because of increased melanin production triggered by pregnancy hormones. They usually fade after delivery.
• Stuffy nose and nosebleeds: Increased blood flow and hormonal changes can cause the mucous membranes in your nose to swell and sometimes bleed. Using a humidifier and saline nasal spray can help keep your nasal passages moist and comfortable.

These symptoms can feel overwhelming at times, but most are temporary and will ease after your baby is born. If any symptom suddenly worsens or feels different from what I have described, trust your instincts and reach out to your healthcare provider.

What Are Some Less Common Symptoms You Might Experience?

While most pregnancy experiences follow a common pattern, some women encounter symptoms that are less typical but still within the range of normal. These can feel isolating or worrying, so it helps to know that you are not alone and that many of these have straightforward explanations.

• Restless leg syndrome: This is an uncomfortable urge to move your legs, especially when you are trying to rest or sleep. It might feel like tingling, crawling, or aching sensations deep in your legs. The exact cause during pregnancy is unclear, but low iron levels might play a role. Mention this to your provider so they can check your iron and suggest strategies for relief.
• Carpal tunnel syndrome: Swelling and fluid retention can put pressure on the median nerve in your wrist, causing numbness, tingling, or pain in your hands and fingers. This is more common in the second and third trimesters and usually resolves after delivery. Wearing a wrist splint at night and taking breaks from repetitive hand movements can help.
• Vision changes: Some women notice mild blurriness or difficulty focusing, which can happen because fluid retention changes the shape and thickness of your cornea. These changes are usually temporary and resolve after pregnancy. However, sudden vision changes, especially with severe headache or swelling, require immediate medical evaluation.
• Itchy skin: Mild itching, especially on your growing belly, is common as your skin stretches. Keeping your skin moisturized can help. However, intense itching, particularly on your palms and soles without a visible rash, might signal a liver condition called intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy. This is rare but needs medical attention because it can affect your baby.
• Dizziness or lightheadedness: Your blood volume is higher, but sometimes your blood pressure drops when you stand up quickly or lie flat on your back. Your growing uterus can also compress the large vein that returns blood to your heart when you lie on your back. Changing positions slowly and lying on your left side can help prevent these episodes.
• Bleeding gums: Increased blood flow and hormonal changes can make your gums more sensitive and prone to bleeding when you brush or floss. This condition, called pregnancy gingivitis, is common but still deserves attention. Keeping up with dental hygiene and seeing your dentist during pregnancy can help prevent more serious gum problems.

These symptoms might feel strange or concerning, but they are usually manageable with simple adjustments and reassurance. Always bring up anything that worries you during your prenatal visits so your provider can offer guidance tailored to your situation.

What Rare Complications Should You Be Aware Of?

While most pregnancies progress smoothly, it is important to know about less common complications so you can recognize warning signs early. I want to share this information in a calm and clear way, so you feel informed without feeling anxious. The vast majority of women will never experience these, but awareness helps you know when to seek care promptly.

• Preterm labor: This means labor starts before 37 weeks of pregnancy. At 24 weeks, this is very early, but the signs are important to recognize. They include regular contractions that do not go away with rest, pelvic pressure, lower back pain that comes and goes, or a change in vaginal discharge. If you notice any of these patterns, contact your provider right away. Early intervention can sometimes delay labor and give your baby more time to develop.
• Preeclampsia: This is a serious condition marked by high blood pressure and signs of damage to other organs, often the kidneys. It usually develops after 20 weeks and affects about 5 to 8 percent of pregnancies. Warning signs include severe headache that does not respond to usual remedies, vision changes like seeing spots or flashing lights, sudden severe swelling especially in the face and hands, and upper abdominal pain just below the ribs. If you notice any of these, seek medical care immediately.
• Gestational diabetes: Most providers screen for this between 24 and 28 weeks. It happens when your body cannot produce enough insulin to manage the extra glucose during pregnancy. Most women with gestational diabetes have no obvious symptoms, which is why screening is important. If diagnosed, managing your blood sugar through diet, exercise, and sometimes medication can protect both you and your baby.
• Placenta previa: This occurs when the placenta covers part or all of the cervix, the opening to the uterus. It is often detected during routine ultrasounds and might cause painless vaginal bleeding. Many cases diagnosed in the second trimester resolve on their own as the uterus grows and the placenta moves upward. Your provider will monitor this closely and advise you on activity restrictions if needed.
• Placental abruption: This is when the placenta separates from the uterine wall before delivery, which is rare but serious. Symptoms include vaginal bleeding, continuous abdominal pain, back pain, and frequent contractions. Risk factors include high blood pressure, previous abruption, smoking, and trauma to the abdomen. If you experience these symptoms, especially after a fall or car accident, seek emergency care immediately.
• Incompetent cervix: This is when the cervix begins to open too early without contractions or labor pains. It is rare and might cause a feeling of pelvic pressure, mild cramping, or a change in vaginal discharge. If your provider identifies this, they might recommend a procedure called a cerclage, where stitches are placed around the cervix to help keep it closed.
• Intrauterine growth restriction: This means your baby is not growing at the expected rate. It is usually detected through measurements during prenatal visits or ultrasounds. Causes can include problems with the placenta, maternal health conditions, or infections. Your provider will monitor your baby closely with more frequent ultrasounds and might recommend early delivery if growth slows significantly.
• Infections: Certain infections during pregnancy, though rare, can affect your baby. These include urinary tract infections that spread to the kidneys, sexually transmitted infections, and infections like cytomegalovirus or toxoplasmosis. Symptoms vary widely but might include fever, pain, unusual discharge, or flu-like symptoms. Prompt treatment is important to protect both you and your baby.

These complications are not common, and I share them so you feel empowered to recognize warning signs, not to create fear. Your prenatal appointments are designed to catch these issues early, and most can be managed effectively with timely care. Trust your instincts, and never hesitate to call your provider if something feels wrong.

What Tests and Appointments Can You Expect Around 24 Weeks?

Around this time, your healthcare provider will likely schedule a few important tests and check-ins. These are routine and designed to make sure both you and your baby are doing well. Knowing what to expect can help you feel more prepared and less anxious about these visits.

First, you will probably have a glucose screening test between 24 and 28 weeks. This test checks for gestational diabetes. You will drink a sweet glucose solution and then have your blood drawn an hour later to see how your body processes sugar. If your result is higher than expected, you might need a longer follow-up test, but this does not necessarily mean you have gestational diabetes.

Your provider will also check your blood pressure, weight, and measure the size of your uterus at every visit. These measurements help track your baby's growth and catch any early signs of complications. Your urine will be tested for protein and sugar, which can signal issues like preeclampsia or gestational diabetes.

If you have not had an anatomy ultrasound yet, it might be scheduled around this time or might have already happened a few weeks ago. This detailed ultrasound checks your baby's organs, bones, and overall development. The sonographer will also look at the placenta position and the amount of amniotic fluid around your baby.

Some providers offer or recommend additional tests based on your medical history or risk factors. These might include tests for anemia, antibody screening if you have Rh-negative blood, or specialized ultrasounds if there are concerns about growth or anatomy. Your provider will explain why any additional test is needed and what it involves.

These appointments are also a good time to ask questions, share any symptoms you are experiencing, and discuss your birth preferences as you start thinking ahead. Your provider is there to support you, so bring up anything that is on your mind.

What Can You Do to Support Your Health and Your Baby's Development?

Taking care of yourself during pregnancy does not require perfection, but a few consistent habits can make a real difference in how you feel and how your baby grows. Let me walk you through some practical steps that support both your wellbeing and your baby's development during this stage.

Eating a balanced diet is one of the most important things you can do right now. Focus on whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. Your baby is growing rapidly and needs a steady supply of nutrients, especially protein, calcium, iron, and folate. If you struggle with nausea or heartburn, eating smaller meals more frequently can help you get the nutrition you need without discomfort.

Staying hydrated is equally important because your blood volume is higher and your body needs more fluid to support the placenta and amniotic fluid. Aim for about eight to ten glasses of water each day, more if you are active or it is hot outside. Dehydration can contribute to headaches, dizziness, and even contractions, so keep a water bottle nearby throughout the day.

Gentle exercise can help you manage common pregnancy discomforts like backache, swelling, and fatigue. Walking, swimming, prenatal yoga, and stretching are usually safe and effective. Exercise also supports your mental health and helps prepare your body for labor. Check with your provider about what types and amounts of activity are right for you, especially if you have any complications or restrictions.

Getting enough rest is essential, even though it might feel harder as your belly grows. Try sleeping on your left side, which improves blood flow to your baby and can reduce swelling. Using pillows to support your belly and between your knees can make side sleeping more comfortable. If you have trouble falling asleep, a consistent bedtime routine and limiting screen time before bed can help.

Taking your prenatal vitamin every day ensures you get key nutrients like folic acid, iron, and calcium that might be hard to get through diet alone. If your prenatal vitamin causes nausea, try taking it with food or at bedtime. Let your provider know if you have trouble tolerating it so they can suggest an alternative.

Managing stress is also part of supporting a healthy pregnancy. Pregnancy brings physical changes, hormonal shifts, and emotional adjustments that can feel overwhelming at times. Finding small ways to relax, whether through deep breathing, gentle stretching, talking with a friend, or simply taking a few quiet moments each day, can help you feel more balanced.

Avoiding harmful substances is critical for your baby's development. This means no alcohol, no smoking, and no recreational drugs. Limit caffeine to about 200 milligrams per day, which is roughly one 12-ounce cup of coffee. If you take any medications, including over-the-counter ones, check with your provider to make sure they are safe during pregnancy.

These habits do not have to be perfect or rigid. Do what you can, be kind to yourself on days when things feel hard, and remember that your body is doing remarkable work growing a new life.

What Emotional Changes Are Normal at 24 Weeks?

Pregnancy is not just a physical journey. It is also an emotional one, and the feelings that come up during this time can be just as real and significant as the physical changes you notice. You might feel a wide range of emotions, sometimes all in the same day, and that is completely normal.

Many women feel a growing sense of connection and excitement at 24 weeks because fetal movements are becoming more regular and noticeable. Feeling your baby move can make the pregnancy feel more real and help you bond with the little person growing inside you. At the same time, you might also feel anxious or worried about the future, about labor, or about becoming a parent.

Mood swings are common throughout pregnancy because of hormonal changes, physical discomfort, and the emotional weight of such a big life transition. You might feel joyful one moment and tearful or irritable the next. These shifts do not mean something is wrong with you. They are a normal response to everything your body and mind are processing.

Some women also experience pregnancy-related anxiety or even depression. If you find that worry is taking over your thoughts, if you feel persistently sad or hopeless, or if you have lost interest in things you usually enjoy, please talk to your healthcare provider. Mental health is just as important as physical health during pregnancy, and there are safe and effective ways to get support.

Talking about your feelings with a partner, friend, therapist, or support group can help you feel less isolated. Pregnancy can bring up unexpected emotions, and having a safe space to express them without judgment can be incredibly healing.

When Should You Call Your Healthcare Provider?

Most of the time, pregnancy progresses without serious issues, but there are certain symptoms that should never be ignored. Knowing when to reach out for help can protect both you and your baby. I want you to feel confident calling your provider anytime something feels off, even if you are not sure whether it is serious.

Here are signs that always warrant a call or visit, and in some cases, immediate emergency care. Trust your instincts, and do not worry about bothering your provider. They would much rather hear from you and reassure you than have you wait and worry.

• Vaginal bleeding: Any amount of bleeding, whether light spotting or heavier flow, should be reported. It might be harmless, but it can also signal complications like placenta previa or placental abruption. Do not wait to see if it stops on its own.
• Severe abdominal pain: Sharp, persistent, or worsening pain in your belly or pelvis, especially if it is on one side or accompanied by bleeding, needs immediate attention. It could indicate a problem with the placenta, uterus, or other organs.
• Gush or steady leak of fluid from your vagina: This might mean your water has broken, which is very early at 24 weeks and requires urgent medical care. The fluid is usually clear or slightly pink and does not stop like regular discharge.
• Decreased fetal movement: If you notice a sudden drop in your baby's movements or if your baby is not moving after you eat or rest, contact your provider. While movement patterns can vary, a significant change should always be checked.
• Severe headache that does not go away: A headache that is worse than usual, does not respond to rest or safe pain relief, or is accompanied by vision changes or swelling, could be a sign of preeclampsia and needs immediate evaluation.
• Vision changes: Seeing spots, flashing lights, or losing part of your vision, especially along with headache or swelling, is a warning sign of preeclampsia and requires urgent care.
• Sudden or severe swelling: While mild swelling in your feet and ankles is normal, sudden swelling of your face, hands, or around your eyes, or swelling that comes on rapidly, can indicate preeclampsia.
• Fever above 100.4°F (38°C): A fever during pregnancy can signal an infection that needs treatment. Contact your provider to discuss your symptoms and get guidance on next steps.
• Painful or burning urination: This can be a sign of a urinary tract infection, which is common in pregnancy but needs prompt treatment to prevent it from spreading to your kidneys.
• Persistent vomiting or inability to keep food or fluids down: Severe nausea and vomiting, especially if you are losing weight or showing signs of dehydration like dark urine or dizziness, needs medical attention.
• Fainting or severe dizziness: Occasional lightheadedness can be normal, but if you actually faint or feel like you might, or if dizziness is severe and persistent, you should be evaluated.
• Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby: If you are experiencing thoughts of self-harm or harming your baby, please reach out for help immediately. Call your provider, a mental health crisis line, or go to the nearest emergency room. You are not alone, and help is available.

These warning signs are not meant to scare you, but to empower you to recognize when something needs attention. Most phone calls to your provider will result in reassurance, and that peace of mind is valuable in itself. Never hesitate to reach out when something does not feel right.

How Can You Prepare for the Weeks Ahead?

You are now in the middle of your second trimester, and the third trimester is approaching more quickly than you might expect. This is a good time to start thinking about some practical preparations that will help you feel more ready as your due date gets closer.

If you have not already, consider starting or continuing childbirth education classes. These classes teach you about labor, delivery, pain management options, and what to expect in the early days with your newborn. Many hospitals and birth centers offer classes, and there are also online options if in-person classes do not fit your schedule.

Begin thinking about your birth preferences and discussing them with your partner or support person and your healthcare provider. You do not need a rigid birth plan, but having a sense of what matters most to you, what your options are, and where you feel flexible can help you feel more prepared and confident.

Now is also a good time to tour the hospital or birth center where you plan to deliver. Seeing the space, knowing where to go when labor starts, and understanding the policies can reduce anxiety when the big day arrives.

Start gathering baby essentials if you have not already. You do not need everything right away, but having the basics like a safe sleep space, car seat, diapers, and a few outfits will help you feel more prepared. You can add to your supplies gradually over the coming weeks.

Talking with your employer about maternity leave and understanding your rights and benefits is also important. Knowing what your options are and what paperwork you need to complete can help you plan and reduce stress as your due date approaches.

Finally, take time to connect with your partner, if you have one, about how you are both feeling and what support you each need. Pregnancy is a transition for everyone involved, and keeping communication open can strengthen your relationship and help you work together as a team.

What Can You Look Forward to in the Coming Weeks?

The journey from 24 weeks to full term is full of changes, growth, and anticipation. Your baby will continue to gain weight, develop more defined features, and practice movements that will become stronger and more coordinated. You might start to see patterns in when your baby is most active, and those kicks and rolls will become a comforting part of your daily routine.

Your body will continue to grow and adapt to make room for your baby. Your belly will expand, and you might notice new sensations as your baby gets bigger and space gets tighter. These changes can feel overwhelming at times, but they are all signs that your baby is thriving and preparing for life outside the womb.

As you move into the third trimester, your focus will naturally shift toward preparing for labor, delivery, and welcoming your baby. You will have more frequent prenatal visits, more opportunities to ask questions, and more moments to imagine the life you are about to begin with your little one.

This is an incredible time, full of both challenges and wonder. Take it one day at a time, be gentle with yourself, and remember that your body is doing something truly extraordinary. You are growing a new life, and that is worthy of care, patience, and celebration.