Pregnancy Guide for Couples: Week 24
Week 24 is about the middle of the road for the second trimester, so you’re hopefully feeling wonderful! Many moms feel like they have more energy during this time. Feelings of nausea usually have lessened or are now non-existent 🎉
What’s Going on with Baby
At Week 24, your baby is the size of a school backpack!
Your baby is continuing to develop their brain, especially the cerebral cortex. Their sensory organs, such as hearing and vision, are also maturing. This means that before you know it, baby will be able to hear you even better from within the womb! Here are some reasons why baby might move more often at times than at other times:
Just like adults and children, babies have sleep and wake cycles! If your baby is awake, you will feel them moving around more often than when sleeping.
Some experts say babies may kick or move when your voice, a touch, or music stimulates them.
Your baby may move around more as you move around more.
What’s Going on with Mom
We must be honest—week 24 means it’s about time to take the Glucose Challenge Screening Test. Doctors want to see how your body processes sugar, so they’ll have you drink this extra-sugary drink and hang out for an hour at your prenatal appointment until your blood is drawn for results. Here are some tips to help pass this test (the first time):
Stay hydrated. Lots of water is always good, especially before your glucose test, since hydration can help support healthy blood sugar levels.
Limit caffeine and stress. Both of these things can spike blood sugar levels.
Sleep well. A good night’s sleep can help with blood sugar levels, especially the night before your glucose test.
Eat complex carb foods. Complex carbs like whole grains, fruit, vegetables, and beans are helpful. Avoid sugary and processed foods!
Some mothers claim that scheduling your glucose test as early in the morning as possible will help you pass since you’ve probably not eaten much yet to disrupt your blood sugar levels potentially. If you don’t pass the first time, don’t worry—you’ll get another chance during a 3-hour glucose screening.
What’s going on with Partner
Hey Dad! Since Mom is about to take the Glucose Challenge Screening Test, this is an excellent opportunity for you to help. Here are some ways you can come alongside Mom to support her and help her pass the test the first time:
If complex carbs aren’t already in the house, run to the grocery store and grab high-fiber foods (e.g., beans), whole grains, and protein-rich foods (e.g., lean meat).
Prepare some healthy snacks for Mom. Toasted chickpeas are an idea!
Help reduce Mom’s stress levels where you can and allow her to get a good night’s sleep before the day of her doctor’s appointment.
RESOURCE OF THE WEEK
Want more info on how to prepare for your gestational diabetes test? Head over to our blog to read more!
