Week 24: Your Baby is the Size of an Ear of Corn
You may notice your eyes are drier than usual and vision might be slightly blurry - this is due to hormonal changes and water retention affecting the shape of your eye lens. Your belly is growing rapidly, and stretch marks may be more prominent.
Your baby at week 24
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Size of a Ear of corn
Baby Development
The baby's face is almost fully formed and looks much like it will at birth. The inner ear is now fully developed, giving the baby a sense of balance and the ability to tell if they are upside down or right-side up. The lungs are developing surfactant-producing cells. The skin is becoming more opaque and gaining colour. The baby has regular sleep and wake cycles.
Week 24 Highlight: Your baby now has a fully developed inner ear and a sense of balance - they know which way is up!
Common Symptoms
Tips for Week 24
Apply rich moisturiser or oil to your stretching belly skin.
Eat iron-rich foods and take your iron supplement to prevent anaemia.
Start thinking about what to pack in your hospital bag.
Rest with your feet up whenever possible.
South Africa Specific Info
Your glucose tolerance test (GTT) will be due soon, typically between 24-28 weeks. This screens for gestational diabetes, which is increasingly common in South Africa. The test involves drinking a glucose solution and having blood drawn at intervals. In the public sector, this is done at your antenatal clinic. Gestational diabetes can usually be managed with diet and exercise.
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Frequently Asked Questions
About the Author
Due Date Calculator SA Editorial Team
Our content is reviewed by healthcare professionals familiar with South African maternal health practices. We combine evidence-based medical information with local knowledge to support South African mums throughout their pregnancy journey. Our team includes contributors with backgrounds in midwifery, obstetrics, and maternal health education.
Last reviewed: February 2026