This is a major medical milestone. At 24 weeks, a baby has a chance of survival outside the womb with intensive medical care in a NICU. This knowledge can be both reassuring and anxiety-inducing. In critical cases, premature delivery can occur at 24 weeks. While a baby born this early has a chance of survival with advanced medical care, it is a very vulnerable time. Therefore, it is essential to be careful during these weeks. Avoid heavy lifting and ensure you are always around family or loved ones for support.
Physical/Emotional Changes :
- Pregnancy Glow: Increased blood volume can give your skin a radiant look. We even see a radiant glow on a pregnant woman’s face.
- Backache: Your growing belly shifts your center of gravity, causing strain on your lower back.
- Swollen Ankles & Feet: Mild swelling (edema) is common due to increased fluids and blood flow.
- Pregnancy Brain: In this journey, some women experience different such as forgetfulness, lack of focus, and feeling scatterbrained are very common due to hormonal changes and the mental load of preparing for a baby.
Some women feel powerful and beautiful, while others struggle with their new shape. These feelings are completely normal.
What is happening with the baby inside the womb from the 21st to the 24th week?
- Week 21-22: The nervous system is developing to help control muscles. They are gaining their fingerprints and may be able to suck their thumb.
- Week 23: The baby’s body begins to add fat, and their sense of hearing is developing, allowing them to hear your heartbeat and voice.
- Week 24: The baby’s hair starts to grow, and they may recognize sounds, responding with movement. Their lungs are fully developed but not yet capable of functioning outside the womb.
Related Blogs :
- Pregnancy Week By Week | 4th Week of Pregnancy | (Month 1) | First Trimester
- 5th to 8th Week of Pregnancy (Month 2) – First Trimester
- 9th Week to 12th Week Pregnancy (Month 3) – First Trimester
- 13th Week to 16th Week Pregnancy (Month 4) – Second Trimester
- 17th Week to 20th Week Pregnancy (Month 5)- Second Trimester
Source:
- https://www.nhs.uk/start-for-life/pregnancy/week-by-week-guide-to-pregnancy/2nd-trimester/week-21
- https://www.nhs.uk/start-for-life/pregnancy/week-by-week-guide-to-pregnancy/2nd-trimester/week-24
- https://healthy.kaiserpermanente.org/health-wellness/maternity/second-trimester/weeks-21-24
- https://www.themotherbabycenter.org/blog/2023/01/pregnancy-weeks-to-months
