What tests should I know about?
By your week 24 of pregnancy baby development, your doctor will also check if you have gestational diabetes. You will be asked to undergo glucose screening to determine if you are at risk of acquiring gestational diabetes.
Women are more at risk of gestational diabetes if they are:
- Over 35 years old at time of pregnancy
- Have short stature (<1.5m)
- Overweight or obese
- Gain excessive weight during pregnancy
- Have excessive central body fat deposition
- Have a family history of diabetes
- Have polyhydramnios
- Have hypertension or preeclampsia
- History of miscarriage
- Lead a sedentary lifestyle
- Suffer from polycystic ovary syndrome
With gestational diabetes, the baby may grow larger than normal and make it more difficult for a natural delivery. Expectant mothers who have gestational diabetes are usually recommended to deliver their baby via cesarean section. Gestational diabetes may also cause premature birth, which occurs before the 37th week of pregnancy.
Women with gestational diabetes are also at risk of developing high blood pressure, polyhydramnios, and/or pre-eclampsia.
Your Doctor Visits
Since you are now on week 24 of pregnancy baby development, this is the best time to ask your doctor what you can expect in this last stage of your pregnancy with regards to your diet and level of activity. You may also want to revisit your vacation plans as women who are 28 weeks pregnant may be restricted to fly and travel long distances.
You may also consult your OB-GYN regarding maintaining intimate relations with your partner and what positions are safe for you and the baby. With your growing belly, it might get tricky, but this should not be a basis for concern.
Health & Safety
To ensure that you and the baby are healthy in preparation for birth, try the following tips:
- Stay hydrated. Drink 8-10 cups of water each day.
- Communicate with your partner and your family regularly. If you can take trips to the doctor with a companion, all the better. Having someone with you while you consult your doctor is helpful.
- Maintain a healthy diet and moderate exercise, if given the green light to do so. This will not only improve how you are physically but mentally as well.
- Still keep wary of pregnancy myths. For example, dark patches of skin on your neck and armpits do not necessarily mean that you will have a boy.
This is an exciting time for you as your baby reaches the final stages of pregnancy. On week 24 of pregnancy baby development, do not forget to get enough sleep, keep yourself healthy, and avoid food that does not add nutritional value to your diet to avoid gestational diabetes.
Hello Health Group does not offer any advice, diagnosis, or medical treatment.
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