Pregnancy at week 24

Your baby

Your baby's brain is growing rapidly and their senses are continuing to develop. The tastebuds on their tongue are becoming more sensitive, their eyes respond to light and they can hear sounds from outside the uterus.

Their lungs are developing too. They are growing branches and getting ready to produce surfactant, a substance that helps their lungs to expand when your baby is breathing.

Preterm babies born at 24 weeks have about a 1 in 2 chance of surviving if they are delivered in hospital and receive expert care in a neonatal unit. However, they would have a high chance of having a disability, such as cerebral palsy or blindness, if they were born this early.

Your body

The top of your uterus is just above your belly button now.

By now you should also be feeling your baby's movements. If you haven't felt your baby moving yet – see your doctor or midwife.

You might find other people making comments about your pregnancy or even trying to touch your tummy, speak up if this makes you feel uncomfortable. It's important people ask for your verbal consent before touching you – this includes your healthcare team Learn more about your healthcare rights.

You may start to feel Braxton Hicks contractions from now on. These are a type of contraction when the muscles of your uterus tighten and your bump goes hard. You can tell the difference between Braxton Hicks contractions and labour contractions because they aren't regular and they will probably stop if you shift position.

Always seek medical attention if you experience:

• contractions that become stronger, more frequent or that last longer
• persistent pain or pressure in your tummy, back or pelvis
• vaginal bleeding
• your baby's movements slowing or stopping

Things to remember

At some time between 24 and 28 weeks, you might be offered a test for gestational diabetes. This is a type of diabetes that develops in pregnancy and goes away once the baby is born.

The test is called a Glucose Tolerance Test (GTT). It's a blood test that you have after you have fasted for 8 to 12 hours. You then have a glucose drink and 1 to 2 hours later you have another blood test.

If the GTT shows you have gestational diabetes, you can manage the condition by monitoring your blood sugar, making changes to your diet, exercising, and sometimes taking medication. You will need extra care for the rest of your pregnancy.

Resources and support

Speak to your doctor, midwife or obstetrician if you have questions about your pregnancy.

Pregnancy, Birth and Baby also has more information on:

• maternity care in Australia
• having a healthy pregnancy
• exploring the anatomy of pregnancy and birth
• checkups, screenings, scans and tests you can have during your pregnancy
• common conditions you might experience during your pregnancy
• looking after your mental health and wellbeing

Speak to a maternal child health nurse

Call Pregnancy, Birth and Baby to speak to a maternal child health nurse on 1800 882 436 or video call. Available 7am to midnight (AET), 7 days a week.