Week 24: The Viability Milestone
Baby is about the size of Corn on the cob (300mm)
Week 24 is generally considered the threshold of viability—survival is possible with intensive NICU care. Lungs begin producing surfactant. Fingerprints are complete.
The glucose tolerance test is typically done now. Shortness of breath may increase.
What is important now
Complete the glucose tolerance test (GDM screening). Reaching viability is medically significant.
Common symptoms
- gush of fluid — call provider immediately
- regular contractions — contact provider
Wellness this week.
Nutrition
Lung development and glucose screening
- Eat normally before glucose test
- Choline for lung development
- Continue DHA
Exercise
Movement
Continue with growing belly modifications
Sleep
7-9 hours
Position: Left side with full support
· Shortness of breath may affect sleep—prop up slightly
Mental wellness
Mindfulness
Reaching viability is a huge mental milestone.
“Your baby's lungs are preparing for their first breath.”
Your timeline.
Week 6
18 weeks ago- routine
Checkpoint 1 — Mutterpass may be issued upon heartbeat confirmation
Week 19
5 weeks ago- routineWeeks 19–22
Checkpoint 2 — Screening Ultrasound
Choice between a basic biometric scan or detailed organ scan. Measures head circumference, abdominal circumference, femur length, and checks placental position.
GoalAssess fetal anatomy and growth, check for structural abnormalities, and verify placental location.
Week 24
This week- routine
Checkpoint 1 — GDM Screening
Week 28
In 4 weeks- routine
Checkpoint 1 — GDM screening
- routine
Checkpoint 2 — Rhogam if Rh-negative
Week 29
In 5 weeks- routineWeeks 29–32
Checkpoint 3 — Screening Ultrasound
Third and final routine ultrasound. Assesses fetal growth, position (cephalic/breech), amniotic fluid volume, and placental function.
GoalConfirm appropriate growth trajectory and baby's position for delivery planning.
Week 35
In 11 weeks- self pay igelWeeks 35–37
Checkpoint 1 — GBS Testing — Self-pay/IGeL
Rectovaginal swab to screen for Group B Streptococcus colonization. If positive, IV antibiotics are given during labor to prevent neonatal infection.
GoalIdentify GBS carriers to enable prophylactic treatment during delivery.
Safety: Viability begins around 24 weeks, but outcomes improve significantly each additional week.
Your journey, your rhythm.
Track your pregnancy week by week with gentle, personalized guidance.