What's happening in week 24 of your pregnancy?

Your baby is preparing to take their first breath. Your baby is taking in oxygen through the placenta, but their lungs are developing and getting ready to receive oxygen after they are born.

Your baby now measures almost 21.5 centimetres. They weigh about 590 grams.

How is your baby's brain developing?

The cerebral cortex in your baby's brain is forming important connections that will help them to think consciously and create early memories.

What pregnancy symptom might you experience this week?

Your doctor is likely to check for anaemia or iron deficiency between weeks 24 to 28 during your prenatal visit. Being iron-deficient during pregnancy can lead to preterm birth or low birth weight; consume a balanced diet and take these steps to boost your pregnancy health:

  • Eat foods rich in iron, such as green leafy vegetables like spinach, mint leaves (pudina), lentil (masoor), horse gram (kulith), rajma, soybeans, raisins dried, black (black kismis).

Time your milk intake. Calcium blocks the absorption of iron.

Eat foods or take a supplement that contains vitamin C. Vitamin C helps your body absorb iron better.

Mom's tip of the week

Your doctor will also check your blood sugar level for gestational diabetes. While there is no cure for preventing gestational diabetes, eating food high in fibre and low in fat, and exercising regularly are healthy habits to lower your risk. Remember to consult your doctor before doing any exercises during your pregnancy.

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