Your Pregnancy at Week 24

You may develop new skin symptoms such as itching or red rash. Please consult your obstetrician or dermatologist to confirm the best skincare approach for you as some creams will include substances such as retinol that can have adverse effects. 

During the second trimester, some women may experience spotting or light bleeding during pregnancy. This can be caused by cervical changes, inflammation, or benign cervical polyps and is usually nothing to worry about. However, if you experience profuse bleeding, seek medical attention immediately.

Premature birth refers to births between 20 and 37 weeks of gestation. Risk factors include pregnancy intervals of less than 6 months, multiple miscarriages or abortions.. If you experience frequent contractions, abdominal pain, etc., you should seek medical advice.

Stepping into week 24, the top of your uterus is now just above your belly button. Baby moves more and more, you can put your hands on their belly to feel how alive they are! Others may want to touch your belly to say hello to the baby too.

From now on, you may start to feel contractions. When the uterine muscles tighten, there is a feeling of tightness or hardness, but they are not regular, which is different from labor contractions. They are your body's way of preparing for true labor. When you actually go into labor, there will be strong, regular contractions.

Pregnant women are prone to brown spots (also known as "hormone spots") due to hormonal changes. Light brown, dark brown, and/or blue patches or freckle-like spots may appear on the skin. Pregnant women are advised to use sunscreen with an SPF of 15 to 50 or higher, depending on the UV index. It should be applied 15 minutes before going out to prevent hormonal spots. 

Shortness of breath is common during pregnancy due to the mother's increased need for oxygen and the effects of progesterone on the lungs and the respiratory centre of the brain. While mild shortness of breath is normal during pregnancy, shortness of breath, persistent cough, and chest pain are all warning signs that require immediate medical attention.

• Tiredness and sleep problems
• Stretch marks appear
• Swollen and bleeding gums
• Headache, dizziness
• Back pain
• Nosebleed
• Indigestion, heartburn
• Bloating, constipation
• Leg cramps
• Urinary tract/vaginal infection
• Mood swings
• Vaginal white milky discharge and slight spotting

• Contractions that become stronger, more frequent, or last longer
• Persistent pain in the abdomen, back, or pelvis
• Heavy vaginal bleeding
• Your baby's fetal movements decrease or stop