Your baby’s chances of survival are now improving. If he or she is born at 24 weeks, with expert medical care, he or she can have some chance of survival. Medical facilities are developing all the time and babies born very prematurely can also survive though it can mean an extended stay in a neonatal intensive care unit.
Your baby is really becoming a little person now and can do more and more bodily functions independent of the mother’s support system now. This is what improves chances of baby’s survival if born after the 23rd week of gestation.
Changes in the baby
Your baby is growing and gaining weight steadily and all body systems are maturing to help baby function on his or her own after birth.
- The baby now has discernible facial features much as he or she will have when born.
- The kicks and prods have now become easier to feel and may soon surprise you with their force.
Changes in the mom to be
Remember any unusual or extreme symptoms during pregnancy should never be ignored. While itchy skin is normal, excessive itchiness, especially if accompanied by rashes, should be reported. While some swelling of the ankles is normal, if your face appears puffy, report this promptly.
- Women find that they are literally drooling when pregnant – many women experience excessive salivation during this time.
- Many women also find that their sense of taste is altered; some find that there is a metallic taste in the mouth.
Tips for the 24th Week
There are a lot of controllable factors that contribute to premature birth. Here are some of them:
- Get proper and regular prenatal care. If you have been diagnosed with cervical abnormalities or complications such as preeclampsia, or if you’re going to have twins, you will have to be extra careful about following doctor’s instructions.
- Get the help and support you need at home and at work.
- Minimizing stress is important for the health and wellbeing of your baby and your pregnancy.
- Make sure that your blood sugar is well controlled particularly if you have been diagnosed with diabetes.
- Avoid exposure to pollution and chemicals at home and work.
- Never take any medication without clearing with your doctor first. As far as possible, limit medication use and use natural home remedies that your doctor has cleared.