Pregnancy Calendar at Week 24
Mommy, hello!
We're with you all week long, and now I finally get to be your big, chunky artist! 🌸 I'm already 30-31 centimeters tall, with a weight of 650 to 720 grams — you'll see, I’m getting chubbier and chubbier!
My skin isn’t so transparent anymore; it’s turning pinker thanks to capillaries and a layer of fat underneath. I’ve even started to gain a little more pigment, so I’ll be even brighter soon! Hair is already growing on my head, and my eyebrows and eyelashes make me look like a tiny little star. 😊 My brain can now store up to 100 grams, and veins are starting to pop out — I’m becoming smarter!
My tiny legs are gearing up for a big day: they’ve begun developing their little surface layers to breathe when the time comes. And while I’m practicing, creating a little belly fluid — about 500 ml a day! — keeps my little heart pumping strong. My liver is busy storing glycogen, and my kidneys and bones are helping build my blood supply.
I can already hear your voice, feel your heart beating, and even pick up your sounds from outside! Sometimes I push with my hands and feet or grab onto the umbilical cord. But I spend most of my time — 16 to 19 hours a day — sleeping all cozy. My punches are my way of saying: 'Mom, I’m right here, with you!'
Thanks for being the warmest home a little mommy could ask for. I love feeling your care and dreaming of seeing you sooner! 💖
With all these little artists growing inside you,
your little buddy is a cute little bottle 🌿
What to Expect During Pregnancy
During the 24th week of pregnancy, after five months and one week, moms might start to feel a little more relaxed. By this time, nausea usually takes a backseat, and women tend to feel more energetic and lively. Life isn't quite so busy, leaving room for activities like walking, swimming in the pool, and doing prenatal fitness. It's a great time to unwind!
Changes to the Uterus
The height of the uterus rises to about 4 cm above the pubic bone, and its size can be compared to a football. Due to internal pressure, discomfort in the digestive system may occur. The cervix forms a full plug protecting the baby from infections. Some women even begin to prepare for childbirth at this stage, which is characterized by mild contractions. These contractions aren't regular or persistent, so there's no need to worry.
Urination
Urination becomes more normal during this week. If the mother has excess weight before pregnancy, weight gain might be around half of the average. It's common to notice a bluish tint in the urine, which is normal and results from increased levels of estrogen. Sometimes, stretch marks can appear on the breasts, so proper care is important.
Breasts
Hormonal changes related to this period can make women experience unpleasant feelings of fullness and tingling, similar to pregnancy. Increased blood flow to the breasts can cause small blood vessels to become more prominent, and a bluish tint or sagging may develop. Stretch marks might also appear, so caring for them is recommended.
Vaginal Discharge
Vaginal discharge is usually clear or slightly cloudy, with normal density and milky color. This process increases the amount of estrogen, which supports the growth of milk glands. In some cases, discharge might indicate a hormonal imbalance or bacterial infection. Also, an increase in vaginal discharge can be a sign of toxicosis or lower limb edema, so medical consultation is advised.
Blood Circulation
Blood circulation during pregnancy isn't always linked to varicose veins. Some women might develop spider veins on the legs, especially in the second half of pregnancy.
What Not to Do During Pregnancy
- Avoid excessive intake of salty and salted foods to prevent water retention in the body.
- Limit salt intake, as it can cause swelling and weight gain.
- Avoid overheating, such as walking in hot weather or taking hot baths.
- Don't consume many protein-rich foods to prevent swelling and the risk of gestosis.
Water Retention
Pregnancy often leads to water retention in the entire body, which can cause discomfort and weight gain. Swelling might worsen in hot weather, and leg swelling may occur if you stay in one position too long. It's best to consult a doctor promptly since worsening swelling can indicate preeclampsia or other complications.
Pigmentation of the Skin
Pigmentation often appears on the face as dark spots. Some women become more noticeable between the pigment line from the navel to the forehead. During pregnancy, the skin on the breasts fully develops pigmentation, which can be verified by a dermatologist. The pigmentation area might be sensitive to light flashes.
Stretch Marks
Stretch marks can appear bluish, with increased density and milky hue. This is a normal process caused by the increase in the number of cells. If no specific hue or fishy smell is present, they don't indicate a problem and shouldn't cause concern.
Hormonal Changes
At 24 weeks, pregnancy hormonal changes might cause mild mood swings. Future mothers will be able to feed normally, but it’s important to remember that “eating for two” is a myth. Reaction to odors usually diminishes.
Blood Pressure
Blood pressure typically remains stable during pregnancy. However, women with pre-existing conditions might experience fluctuations. Excessively high blood pressure can cause headaches, dizziness, and nausea, so close monitoring by doctors is recommended.
Swelling
Water retention in the entire body is common in pregnancy. Swelling and weight gain may be accentuated by hot weather and stress. Usually, swelling disappears from the legs when changing positions; however, persistent swelling requires medical attention, as it could lead to preeclampsia or other issues.
Facial Edema
Facial swelling doesn't always indicate problems. It can sometimes be a reaction to the exhaustion of the kidneys or other lower limb swelling. Usually, mild facial puffiness is a common and harmless symptom, but if it worsens, medical consultation is advised.
Increased Sensitivity
In the 24th week, pregnancy-related sensitivity can lead to tears, especially when exposed to bright lights. It’s normal and part of hormonal changes, but be careful to avoid stress or eye strain.
Harmful Substances
- Avoid smoking in fresh air, especially before sleep.
- Include seasonal vegetables in your diet—leafy greens improve digestion.
- Consult a doctor if you notice swelling, blood circulation issues, or lower limb edema.
What to Avoid During Pregnancy
- Avoid excessive consumption of salty and salted foods to prevent water retention.
- Limit salt intake to avoid swelling and weight gain.
- Avoid overheating, such as walking in hot weather or taking very hot baths.
- Do not eat lots of proteins to prevent swelling and toxemia.
Healthy Eating
It's important for women to follow proper nutrition by eating natural foods and avoiding unhealthy methods like frying, smoking, and salty snacks.
The 24-week pregnancy recommendation includes:
- Incorporate protein-rich foods such as meat, fish, and poultry to support the growth of your baby's cells.
- Avoid consuming raw milk, even homemade. It's better to opt for pasteurized milk.
- Add beef liver (source of iron), red fish (rich in omega-3 fats), and eggs (containing folic acid and ascorbic acid) to your diet.
Reducing stomach volume through gastric bypass, for example, recommends eating smaller portions more frequently.
It's best not to transfer food, as it can cause the delay of liquids in the body. Use iodized salt.
Avoid spicy foods, baked goods with excess sugar, baked, carbonated beverages to prevent unnecessary weight gain.
During the 24th week of pregnancy, you should monitor yourself with recipes that make you feel good - particularly foods that are gentle and tasty. Prepare dishes like porridges, stews, baked and steamed foods, salads, apples, carrots, spinach, and bananas. Daily intake in the phytoneon diet should be around 500 mcg.
Vitamins and Microelements Needed in 24 Weeks
As the fetus actively grows during this period, the need for vitamins and minerals increases twofold. Notably, our body requires calcium, ascorbic acid, zinc, and iron.
Vitamin A (Retinol)
It is recommended to take no more than the daily dose. Excess vitamin A can cause fetal neurotoxicity. The safe daily intake is 350 mcg of retinol, which can be found in liver, fish, salmon, and cod liver oil.
Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)
The vitamin B1 requirement increases during pregnancy. A deficiency can lead to peripheral neuropathy, which is harmful to the baby's health. The daily norm is 1.2 mg. You can find thiamine in seafood, fish oils, nuts, potatoes, mushrooms, and prenatal vitamins.
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)
The daily dose of riboflavin is about 2 mg. This vitamin is especially beneficial for women who previously experienced heavy toxicosis, and at week 24 it can be supplemented to reduce the deficit. Riboflavin is contained in fish products, meat, eggs, and dairy.
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 plays an important role in the absorption of calcium in the body and influences the coagulation of blood. Its daily requirement is 1.3 mg. It is contained in fish, meat, nuts, pumpkin seeds, potatoes, and apples.
Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin)
Vitamin B12 is present together with folic acid. The daily requirement during pregnancy can increase, as it is necessary for the development of the nervous system and also supports the work of the maternal and fetal heart. The recommended intake is about 20 mcg. It’s found in fish, liver, eggs, and dairy.
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
Vitamin C increases during pregnancy. Its daily norm is 50-60 mcg. It can be obtained from seafood, fish, eggs, dairy products, and citrus fruits.
Vitamin D (Cholecalciferol)
Vitamin D helps improve calcium absorption and supports the formation of the fetal musculoskeletal system. During week 24, the daily dose should be about 250 mcg. It’s present in fish, fish oils, nuts, and carrots.
Calcium
Calcium is a key element for the skeletal system and also helps develop the muscles and cardiovascular system of the fetus. The normal daily intake is 1,200 mg. You can obtain calcium from dairy, seafood, nuts, and leafy greens.
Magnesium
Magnesium plays a crucial role in the absorption of more than 500 enzymes, making it especially important during the 24th week of pregnancy. Deficiency can cause internal organ development issues and lead to early labor. It’s recommended to increase intake to 400-600 mg from seeds, nuts, fish oils, potatoes, and bananas.
Iodine
Iodine is essential for hormone synthesis in the thyroid gland and the development of the fetus’s iodine store. Deficiency during week 24 can delay fetal growth and cause malformations. The daily dose is about 250 mcg. Iodine is present in seafood, fish, eggs, and dairy.
Selenium
Selenium acts as a powerful antioxidant protecting the fetus. During the 24th week of pregnancy, need increases to about 50 mcg. It can be obtained from seafood, fish, eggs, and dairy products.
Zinc
Zinc regulates over five thousand enzymes. Its requirement increases to 24 weeks when the fetus actively develops. Excess zinc can cause internal organ development issues and increase maternal hunger. Daily intake is around 20 mg and can be obtained from meat, nuts, seafood, spinach, and apples.
Iron
Starting from week 24, pregnancy increases the body's demand for iron. The doctor can prescribe iron supplements depending on blood test results; the average daily need is about 20 mg. Iron is found in meat, fish, liver, eggs, and dairy products.
Helpful Tips
During your pregnancy and the early days after your baby’s arrival, it’s really important to pay special attention to skincare. Keeping your skin healthy can help prevent stretch marks. We recommend a balanced diet and using bandages or supportive wraps to help keep your skin looking great. Choosing the right products—like creams and oils rich in vitamins E—can make a real difference. These help maintain your skin’s beauty and prevent itchy stretch marks. Talk to your doctor to find the best options tailored to your needs. Also, try to spend more quality time with your baby—these moments can ease tensions and bring joy. Your voice and reactions matter a lot in your baby’s development, and staying connected helps build a strong relationship with your little one.
Exercise Ideas for Expecting Moms
During pregnancy, physical activity isn't off the table—many doctors actually recommend staying active, as long as you listen to your body and find a good rhythm that works for you. With a properly organized fitness routine, without overdoing it, a woman can prepare her body for childbirth, maintain a nice figure, and boost her strength and energy all throughout pregnancy.
Specially designed prenatal fitness programs are widely available at most sports clubs, where you can work out under the guidance of a trainer. Just a heads-up: incorporating weights into your routine can increase your calorie burn. These exercises are great for training your core muscles and shoulder girdle. When doing abdominal exercises, your pulse shouldn't go above 120 beats per minute. During periods of intense activity, avoid exceeding 10-15 minutes, and make sure to rest afterwards to help normalize your heart rate.
Troubles During Pregnancy
Heartburn
Feeling a burning sensation in your stomach or chest can happen due to acid reflux, which is common in pregnancy. These episodes usually occur in the evening and during active moments of the baby. To avoid heartburn, it's recommended to eat small, frequent meals. Always keep your medications for heartburn prescribed by your doctor nearby. They are safe for pregnancy and can help soothe uncomfortable symptoms.
Dry Eye Syndrome
Pregnancy during the 24th week can sometimes cause dry eye syndrome. This condition is related to increased internal pressure. It may cause itching and burning in the eye area, and some women may experience blurry vision. It's important not to rub your eyes to avoid irritating the conjunctiva. If you notice this, consult your doctor who can recommend safe eye drops for relief.
Sensitive Eyes
During pregnancy, some women may experience heightened sensitivity in their eyes, such as dry eyes and feelings of sand or grit. It's important not to rub your eyes to prevent conjunctivitis. To ease symptoms, using lubricating eye drops is advised—your doctor can recommend safe options to help protect your eyes from irritation.
