Congratulations, mama! You’ve reached Week 24, the last week of your second trimester’s middle month. By now, your baby bump is likely making a lovely statement, and your baby is blossoming beautifully inside you. Let’s walk through what’s happening this week—physically, emotionally, and even spiritually.
🌱 What’s Happening to Your Baby at Week 24?
At 24 weeks, your baby is about the size of an ear of corn 🌽—around 12 inches long and weighing about 1.3 pounds.
Baby’s Milestones This Week:
- Lungs are forming branches of the respiratory “tree” and surfactant production begins, helping baby breathe after birth.
- Skin is still thin, but it’s becoming more opaque as fat continues to develop.
- Hearing is sharper—your baby can recognize your voice, your partner’s, and even familiar music.
- Facial features are well-defined, and baby’s eyelashes, eyebrows, and hair are growing more noticeable.
💬 Fun Fact: Your baby may now respond to touch and sound by moving or increasing their heartbeat!
🤰 What’s Going On Inside Your Body?
Your body is a powerhouse of nurturing strength right now.
Common Week 24 Symptoms:
- Lower backaches – Your uterus is heavy and shifting your posture.
- Braxton Hicks contractions – Practice contractions may start, especially after activity.
- Foot swelling (edema) – Circulation changes can lead to swollen ankles.
- Linea nigra – That dark line from your belly button down may become more prominent.
- Increased appetite – Your baby’s growing and so are their needs!
💡 Tip: Try smaller, more frequent meals full of protein, fiber, and hydration to support your baby and reduce heartburn or bloating.
🩺 Important Health Check-ins This Week
- Glucose Screening Test (GTT): This is often scheduled between weeks 24–28 to check for gestational diabetes.
- Blood pressure: High BP at this stage can be an early sign of preeclampsia. Keep your appointments and track symptoms.
- Fundal height measurement: Your doctor may start measuring your belly to track baby’s growth.
🍽️ Nourishment & Energy Boosting Ideas
You’re likely feeling more tired again. Fuel your body with iron-rich foods like:
- Lentils, beans, spinach, fortified cereals, and lean meats.
Pair with vitamin C (citrus fruits, bell peppers) to improve absorption!
🫶 Craving comfort? Try warm soups, smoothies, or a small treat—it’s all about balance and joy.
🧘♀️ Emotional Wellbeing: Breathe Through the Rush
Week 24 is when many expecting moms feel emotionally overwhelmed. It’s normal. You might be:
- Worrying about delivery
- Feeling anxious about parenting
- Getting annoyed by unsolicited advice
🌸 So what can help?
- Journaling your thoughts or gratitude
- Prenatal yoga or stretching
- Talking to your partner about expectations
- Connecting with other moms in communities like [MomToBe Circle] 💬
Remember: You’re already doing enough. One breath at a time.
🥗 Top 10 Pregnancy Snacks You Can Make at Home
Nutritious, easy, and delicious! Perfect for those sudden cravings and mom-to-be nourishment.
Read Now🛍️ Nursery Nesting & Planning
It’s not too early to start prepping for baby’s arrival!
Here are some ideas to explore:
- Order your hospital bag essentials
- Start thinking about cribs, bassinets, and baby monitors
- Create a baby registry—you deserve the support!
💡 Need help? Check out: Hospital Bag Must-Haves
📌 Quick Checklist for Week 24
✅ Schedule your glucose screening
✅ Elevate your feet during breaks to ease swelling
✅ Drink lots of water (aim for 8–10 glasses)
✅ Start birth class research if you haven’t
✅ Rest often and prioritize sleep
💖 A Gentle Reminder from One Mom to Another
You’re not just growing a baby, you’re growing into motherhood.
Every ache, every flutter, every craving—it all matters.
You’re doing a phenomenal job.
So pause, breathe, smile—and maybe sing to that tiny heart inside you.
They’re listening. They’re loving you already. 💗
