The end of the sixth month of pregnancy has come. Every woman feels differently during this period. Someone cries a lot, their mood constantly changes; someone is constantly active and in a good mood; and for some, pregnancy proceeds neutrally, calmly. At week 24, the female body is already maximally prepared for bearing a baby, and provides all the conditions for the baby to develop. The baby, in turn, is actively growing and gives the mother many pleasant sensations with his activity.
How you feel
You gained even more weight and it became harder to breathe. At the 24th week of pregnancy, you may still be bothered by constipation, heartburn, night cramps in the lower extremities, and swelling. A large belly can make it difficult for you to move around, sleep awkwardly, and lace your shoes on your own. You may also notice that you become tired quickly. Try to rest during the day, because this feeling will only intensify further.
During the 23rd to 24th week of pregnancy, many women experience Braxton Hicks contractions. This is not at all dangerous: with the help of minor muscle contractions, the uterus prepares for the upcoming birth. When you feel contractions, lie down for half an hour and rest. If after this muscle contractions continue, with a certain frequency and the addition of other symptoms, this may be premature birth. 24 weeks of pregnancy is the period when the baby is not yet ready to be born, so if you experience back and abdominal pain, bleeding, or strong pressure in the pelvis, you should call an ambulance!
Changes in your body can cause various types of pain. For example, at 24 weeks of pregnancy, painful sensations appear in the back and lower back due to a shift in the center of gravity. One of the stages of preparation for childbirth is the “divergence” of the pelvic bones, so you may also feel discomfort in the sacrum.
By the 23rd - 24th week of pregnancy, many expectant mothers encounter all the troubles associated with hemorrhoids. At the first signs of illness, review your daily diet and include foods high in fiber and foods that have a laxative effect. Also try not to get too cold and rest often. In addition, you can purchase rectal suppositories at the pharmacy, but only after consulting a doctor.
Fetal development
The baby is growing rapidly, and is now in the period of active weight gain.
The baby's weight reaches 490-520 grams, his height is 28-32 cm. The child's growth is mainly due to the fact that he is actively gaining subcutaneous fat. The baby needs fat for life after birth. It creates heat for the body, as it has high energy value. Everyone knows that after birth it is difficult for a child to maintain body temperature, that is, he quickly becomes hypothermic. This is why it is very important to gain the right amount of fat in a baby’s development.
From this week the brain will not actively increase in volume. Since by this stage of the baby’s development, the final number of nerve cells has formed in the brain. Fissures and convolutions begin to form on the surface of the brain. Also, the sebaceous and sweat glands began to function in the child’s body.
Now the child is actively showing curiosity about the world around him outside the tummy. He constantly listens to sounds and knows how to distribute them, reacts to light passing through the stomach and uterus. He also has great sensitivity to the actions taking place; what you feel, so does he. He experiences pleasant emotions when he hears his dad’s voice, and for everyone for whom you have warm feelings. In addition, he feels your negative emotions and reacts to them together with you. For example, if you get scared, he will get scared, and at the same time this feeling remains with him much longer than with you. This is due to the fact that the baby already has its own nervous system.
At this stage of pregnancy, the baby's respiratory system has developed so that the baby is ready to breathe independently in the event of premature birth. That is, terminal sacs have formed in the lungs; they are separated by a thin film from the alveoli, which are filled with air.
Due to the fact that the baby has already gained a lot of weight, his movements have become more clearly audible to you. Now you definitely feel that it is the baby beating, and do not confuse it with other processes in the body.
Even though your baby feels a little cramped in your stomach, he still behaves actively and constantly changes locations. Swings its arms and legs, pushes off the walls of the uterus, tugs on the umbilical cord and explores your organs around it, which can lead to unpleasant sensations.
The child has already established a daily routine. Most often, the baby sleeps, about 20 hours a day. When the baby sleeps, he dreams. A baby's sleep, like an adult's, has two phases: fast and slow.
The baby's face is completely formed. Now he looks like he will look after birth.
The structure of the mother and the location of the fetus
Risk factors
One of the dangers of the 24th week of pregnancy is diabetes, so it is very important for the expectant mother to know her blood sugar level. If it increases slightly, this is considered normal, but a strong increase is a sign of pregnancy diabetes, which increases the risk of difficult labor, causes excess weight in the fetus and can cause a decrease in blood pressure in the newborn.
At 24 weeks of pregnancy, premature birth is possible. Their onset is accompanied by paroxysmal pain in the abdomen and pelvic area, as well as tension and “petrification” of the uterus. At the same time, rupture of amniotic fluid may occur, and sometimes mucous discharge of a brown color or mixed with blood appears.
Another risk at 23–24 weeks of pregnancy is swelling, which can be one of the symptoms of gestosis. Outwardly, they are not immediately visible, so you need to carefully monitor your weight, try not to overeat, take vitamins recommended by your doctor, follow a drinking regime and do exercises.
Nutrition
During this period, many pregnant women are prescribed by their doctor to limit their fluid intake to 1.5-2 liters per day to prevent symptoms of late toxicosis, that is, swelling of the extremities. Keep in mind that if you have been given a fluid restriction, this means not only drinking water or juices up to 2 liters per day, but this also includes any liquid, including first courses.
The main thing for a pregnant woman is proper nutrition and healthy products. The diet should be frequent, small portions. And most of your diet should consist of fresh vegetables and fruits.
In order to prevent anemia from developing, you need to put emphasis when creating a diet on foods that contain a lot of iron. Eat beef, buckwheat, liver, pomegranates, and persimmons more often. And enrich your diet with foods that promote better absorption of iron by the body, that is, foods containing ascorbic acid.
Medical observation
Ultrasound examinations are rarely done at 24 weeks of pregnancy. It is prescribed only if indicated or if a screening ultrasound was missed. During the examination, the doctor determines the position of the fetus in the uterus, assesses the correct development of the child’s organs, the baby’s motor activity and heartbeat, the condition and location of the placenta, and the amount of amniotic fluid.
In addition, general tests may be prescribed at 24 weeks of pregnancy. Typically, such studies are carried out in case of problems with the expectant mother’s health in order to check the number of red and white blood cells, sugar levels and the presence of protein in the urine.
Your feelings
- Many pregnant women feel more and more clumsy and clumsy with each passing week. In fact, you don’t need to perceive yourself that way. Look at your smooth skin, thick hair and sparkling eyes. If your weight is normal, then all your heaviness is your tummy, and not fat deposits in all problem areas.
- You may notice a noticeable increase in sweating now. This can be quite unpleasant, but still refrain from using deodorants and antiperspirants - they contain too many chemicals. Use wet wipes, wash sweaty skin if possible, or purchase special products for pregnant women.
- Don't forget about anti-stretch mark creams. Especially if the skin on your stomach often itches (Why does your stomach itch during pregnancy). This is how she reacts to the need to constantly stretch after the growing uterus. Instead of a special cream, you can use good olive oil.
- As before, any error in diet can result in heartburn and constipation. Don't change your good eating habits!
- The main thing is to try to avoid complications that can really harm you and your baby.
Weight
At week 24, body weight may increase by 350-500 g. More is an alarming signal. He talks about poor nutrition or metabolic disorders. A slight weight gain is not a big deal if your overall health is good.
Preeclampsia
If you had early toxicosis, then it has long since ended. However, there is also a specific danger in the second and third trimesters. This is gestosis (late toxicosis). It can be very difficult and can be truly dangerous for the fetus and its mother. We wrote here how to recognize this complication and what to do.
Photos of bellies:
Pain and discharge
Minor discomfort is now possible in the lumbar region and lower abdomen. But it doesn't have to be real pain. As soon as you realize that your stomach or back really hurts, consult a doctor immediately.
The same should be done if there is any abnormal vaginal discharge. It's okay if you see clear or white mucus. There is cause for alarm if the discharge:
- abundant and watery (this may be leaking amniotic fluid);
- bright yellow;
- similar to cottage cheese;
- with bloody streaks;
- spotting brown;
- have an unpleasant, pungent odor.
Such discharge is a sign of inflammatory processes in the genitourinary system or even a threat of miscarriage.
Recommendations at 24 weeks of pregnancy
At 23–24 weeks of pregnancy, you need to closely monitor your health, not only from a medical, but also from a psychological point of view. Try not to get nervous over trifles, because adrenaline attacks can harm the baby.
Now it is very important to stay active: if your health allows, walk more often, do swimming, yoga for pregnant women. At 24 weeks of pregnancy, sports are allowed and even recommended for expectant mothers! Systematic fitness classes normalize all systems of your body, prepare it for the upcoming stress of childbirth and ensure the successful development of the child. An excellent option is exercises with a fitball (aerobics with a large gymnastic ball): they will help relieve joints and the spine, improve blood circulation in the placenta and normalize intestinal motility.
After 23–24 weeks of pregnancy, women often experience sleep problems. To ensure proper rest, be sure to ventilate your bedroom at night. A special pillow for pregnant women will help you get more comfortable in bed. A good remedy for night leg cramps is a massage with grape seed or wheat germ oil, and chamomile or mint tea with lemon will relieve heartburn.
Photo of the fetus on ultrasound
Six months of pregnancy are already behind you and you are entering the third trimester phase. New sensations await you; your body will prepare for childbirth. The baby continues to prepare for independent life outside the womb. You look forward with pleasure to the moment when you hear your baby's first cry and press the baby to your chest.
Fetal condition
Your baby is growing and developing every day. It becomes larger, which means the range of movements becomes more noticeable. Although it can no longer turn over so actively in the uterine cavity, the reason for this is its impressive dimensions. The baby still remains a fan of pulling the umbilical cord.
Every day the child listens more to his mother and all his feelings. If the mother experiences joyful emotions, the baby will also feel them. In addition, he is able to store them for a long time. It’s good if these are positive emotions. There comes a period when the child can store fat in reserve.
This is a very important point: the breakdown of fat at the right time releases an impressive amount of heat, which means it helps warm up a baby who has a very imperfect thermoregulation system. The respiratory system is especially actively developing. From this moment, even with the danger of premature birth, the child is already able to breathe on his own. The baby's weight is approximately 530-550 grams. The size reaches 20-22 cm.
Deficiency of vitamins and microelements in the second half of pregnancy
Doctors prescribe multivitamins for pregnant women in combination with Omega-3 preparations and vitamin D (in the autumn-winter period). But sometimes such support is not enough, and a pregnant woman is faced with:
- anemia (iron deficiency);
- leg cramps (lack of magnesium and potassium);
- sensitivity of tooth enamel (calcium deficiency).
First of all, it is worth adjusting your diet, focusing on foods rich in the necessary substance. So, a lot of iron is found in:
- boiled beef;
- liver;
- buckwheat;
- pomegranate juice.
Good doses of calcium are found in:
- dairy and fermented milk products;
- fish;
- greenery;
- nuts;
- sesame.
Nutritionists call the best food sources of magnesium and potassium:
- bananas;
- berries;
- legumes and cereals.
Photo gallery of products useful in the second half of pregnancy
Bananas will help enrich the body with potassium
Berries are necessary for a pregnant woman, as they contain a lot of magnesium and potassium, which relieves night cramps.
Cereals and beans will help enrich the body with potassium and magnesium
Dairy and fermented milk products are a source of calcium
Buckwheat is a source of iron
Pomegranate juice is recommended for pregnant women with anemia
Boiled beef contains iron, which is necessary for anemia
Recommendations and advice for the expectant mother
- Before your next visit to the doctor, you must pass: - a general urine test; - general blood analysis; - vaginal smear for infection;
- Now it is very important to give your legs a rest. Don’t be lazy about preventing varicose veins. It is better to prevent than to treat in the future;
- If you have small or flat nipples and want to breastfeed in the future, ask your doctor what you can do;
- Continue to do gymnastics, just remember to take breaks and not be overly active. Also practice relaxation and breathing exercises;
- Enjoy where you are today. This is a natural state for a woman. Therefore, you should not get complex and torment yourself with sad thoughts that you are unattractive. If you and your husband have a close, trusting relationship and he, like you, dreams of an heir, then now for him you are the most beautiful woman in the world. And he doesn’t notice your fullness or stretch marks. Most husbands find their wives very attractive. And even a huge belly seems seductive to them;
- If you experience some semblance of contractions, don't worry - this is the uterus learning to contract and relax. But if you feel that contractions are becoming regular, consult a doctor immediately, as this may be the beginning of premature labor;
- Rest pillow. As your belly grows, it will become increasingly difficult for you to find a suitable sleeping position. A relaxing pillow filled with microgranules (it is shaped like a crescent) will help you lie down more comfortably. After the baby is born, it can also be used to feed the baby. The cover, made of thick cotton hypoallergenic fabric, can be easily removed and washed by hand or in the machine.
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Recommendations for this period
Thanks to the blood flow, the child receives the necessary amount of oxygen and various nutrients. While still in the womb of his mother, the baby trains to breathe, constantly making breathing movements. The entire process is regulated by the respiratory center located in the brain. This is an extremely useful activity. You should not be afraid of amniotic fluid entering the baby’s body; it cannot cause any harm to the baby.
Therefore, it is very important for the expectant mother to lead as healthy a lifestyle as possible during this period. Take more walks and breathe fresh air, engage in light physical activity. It is necessary to take a responsible approach to shaping the diet of the expectant mother. It is important to eat only high-quality food and healthy products.
You need to give up coffee and strong tea. And if a pregnant woman drinks alcohol, smokes or inhales the smell of paint, then in the future this can cause breathing problems for the baby and affect the general condition of his body.
Preference should be given to classical music; a pregnant woman should tune in to a positive mood and experience only positive emotions. After all, the whole range of feelings of the expectant mother is reflected in the state and mood of her unborn child. And its stable position and harmonious development are the main thing.
Relationship with partner
Many expectant mothers more often experience a desire for intimacy with their loved one. If pregnancy proceeds without pathologies, and there are no restrictions, then sexual relations are welcome. The main thing is to choose suitable positions and be careful with your tummy. It is also recommended to use a condom to avoid infections through the birth canal. Some couples are hesitant to have sex for fear that it will harm the baby. But a healthy mother can enjoy intimacy for a long time. In addition, pregnant women claim that orgasm at this stage is more vivid and sensual.
School of preparation for childbirth
If the expectant mother has not yet taken a course to prepare for childbirth, now is the time to do so. There:
- will provide comprehensive information on the course of pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum period;
- will teach you to breathe correctly and experience pain during contractions;
- They will tell you how to properly push and care for a newborn in the first days.
In addition, obstetricians can talk about the latest trends in childbirth. They will suggest a suitable maternity hospital and, if necessary, give personal consultations.
It is useful for expectant mothers to attend a childbirth preparation school
