Key Milestone Weeks in Pregnancy Second Trimester (Weeks 14–27)

At 24 weeks pregnant, one of the most important routine tests offered is the Glucose Tolerance Test (GTT), which screens for gestational diabetes, a temporary form of diabetes that can develop during pregnancy. This test is typically done between 24 and 28 weeks, as this is when pregnancy hormones begin to interfere more significantly with insulin, potentially leading to elevated blood sugar levels.

The GTT involves a few steps:

• Fasting: You’ll be asked not to eat or drink (except water) for 8–10 hours before the test.
• Initial blood test: A sample is taken to measure your baseline blood glucose level.
• Glucose drink: You’ll then drink a sweet glucose solution.
• Follow-up blood tests: Your blood will be tested again at intervals (usually 1 and 2 hours after drinking) to see how your body processes the sugar.

Gestational diabetes doesn’t usually cause noticeable symptoms, which is why testing is important. If diagnosed, it can usually be managed with diet, exercise, and sometimes medication. Managing it well helps reduce the risk of complications such as high birth weight, preterm birth, and neonatal hypoglycaemia.

At 24 weeks pregnant, your body is undergoing many changes to support your growing baby, and it's common to experience a range of physical symptoms. Some of the most typical symptoms include:

• Tiredness and fatigue: Your body is working hard, and hormonal changes can leave you feeling more drained than usual.
• Headaches: Often caused by dehydration, hormonal shifts, or eye strain. If persistent or severe, they should be checked by a healthcare provider.
• Stretch marks and itchy skin: As your belly grows, the skin stretches, which can lead to itchiness and visible marks.
• Back pain: Due to softened ligaments and the weight of your uterus. Gentle exercise, hot packs, and good posture can help.
• Braxton Hicks contractions: These are mild, irregular tightenings of the uterus that may start around this time. They’re not labour contractions and usually ease with rest or a change in position.
• Round ligament pain: Sharp or aching pain on the sides of your abdomen caused by the stretching of ligaments supporting the uterus.
• Leg cramps: Often occurring at night, these can be relieved by stretching or walking.
• Heartburn and indigestion: Caused by hormonal changes and pressure from the uterus on your stomach.
• Frequent urination: The growing uterus presses on your bladder, increasing the need to go.
• Food cravings or aversions: Hormonal changes can trigger strong preferences or dislikes for certain foods.

These symptoms are usually normal, but if anything feels severe or unusual, it’s important to speak with your midwife or doctor.

Braxton Hicks contractions are often described as your body's way of "practising" for labour. These are mild, irregular tightenings of the uterus that can begin around 24 weeks of pregnancy, though some people may notice them earlier or later. Unlike true labour contractions, Braxton Hicks are usually infrequent, non-rhythmic, and don’t increase in intensity. They often feel like a tightening or hardening of your belly and typically last for about 30 seconds to 2 minutes.

You might notice them more when you're tired, dehydrated, or have been physically active. They can also be triggered by things like a full bladder, sexual activity, or even just touching your belly. One of the key ways to tell them apart from real labour contractions is that Braxton Hicks usually ease off if you change position, rest, or drink water.

While they’re usually harmless, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider if the contractions become painful, regular, or are accompanied by other symptoms like bleeding, fluid leakage, or pelvic pressure, as these could be signs of preterm labour.