At week 24 you are now six months pregnant and at the end of your second trimester! Your baby is fine but you are a mess with all the late-pregnancy discomforts. Don’t worry your journey is already two thirds done and soon you’ll hold your little one. You have gained some 14-16 pounds by now and if you are carrying twins, a solid 24 pounds.
Your Baby at Week 24
Your baby is now the size of cantaloupe at 11.8 inches and 1.3 pounds in weight. The foetus is now looking more like a real baby with a soft pink glow as the capillaries have started forming to supply blood to the baby. This means the baby is becoming less transparent. The lungs have not fully developed but the kicks are becoming stronger and your partner might feel them if they placed a hand on your belly.
Symptoms
Some of the pregnancy symptoms are;
● Gain in weight
● Increase in appetite
● Swollen feet and ankles
● Backaches
● More visible stretch marks
● Formation of a black line called linea nigra running down your belly
Exercises
These are some of the light exercises you can try during this week of pregnancy;
● Elevate your feet for the swelling
● Walking for short periods
● Drink lots of water for the crampy legs
● Try kegel exercises to get your cervix muscles flexible
What can you do to ensure your baby stays healthy?
During this period of pregnancy, you should have your glucose levels tested. During the visit, you’ll have your vitals and physical examination taken. OGTT (Oral Glucose Tolerance tests for elevated blood sugar levels, which could indicate Gestational Diabetes) test done. The results will be reviewed by the Gynaecologist. In addition provide information about future ANC’s, answer any questions or concerns from you and ask questions regarding the pregnancy.
Your OB will inform you that it is a glucose challenge screening test. You’ll get to drink glucola. If you have abnormalities in your glucose levels, there will be more ultrasounds. But don’t worry, your doctor will guide you through.
You can visit our clinic at Jacaranda Maternity hospital; we’ll ensure all your needs are catered to.