Week 24 pregnancy

What's happening in week 24 of your pregnancy?

  • Your baby is preparing to take his first breath. Your baby is taking in oxygen through the placenta, but his lungs are developing and getting ready to receive oxygen after he is born.

  • Your baby now measures almost 8.5 inches (21.5 centimeters). He weighs about 1.3 pounds (590 grams).

  • He's looking handsome with hair on his head and beautiful eyelashes now.

How is your baby's brain developing?

  • The cerebral cortex in your baby's brain is forming important connections that will help him to think consciously and create early memories.

  • Support your baby's learning journey by having the brain food nutrient, DHA, in your daily pregnancy diet.

What pregnancy symptom might you experience this week?
Your doctor is likely to check for anemia or iron deficiency between weeks 24 to 28 during your prenatal visit. Being iron-deficient during pregnancy can lead to preterm birth or low birth weight; consume a balanced diet and take these steps to boost your pregnancy health:

  • Eat foods rich in iron, such as green leafy vegetables like spinach, and fish like sardines and tuna.

  • Time your milk intake. Calcium blocks the absorption of iron.

  • Eat foods or take a supplement that contain vitamin C.Vitamin C helps your body absorb iron better.

Mom's tip of the week
Your doctor will also check your blood sugar level for gestational diabetes. While there is no cure-all to preventing gestational diabetes, eating food high in fiber and low in fat, and exercising regularly are healthy habits to lower your risk. Remember to consult your doctor before doing any exercises during your pregnancy.

References:

 

  1. http://kidshealth.org/parent/pregnancy_center/pregnancy_calendar/week24....

  2. http://www.webmd.com/diabetes/gestational-diabetes-can-i-lower-my-risk