May 14, 2025 • 11 mins
EP 93:
Welcome to another episode of Oh Baybee!, where we break down everything you really need to know about pregnancy, birth, and breastfeeding. This week, we’re diving into Week 24 of pregnancy, and mama — you’ve officially made it to viability week! 🙌
We’re talking baby brain, belly changes, the truth about those Braxton Hicks contractions, and one often-overlooked symptom to watch out for right now.
Plus, I’ll share how your body is already prepping for breastfeeding even if you haven’t noticed it yet — and what you can do now to make things way easier after baby arrives.
💡 Whether you’re feeling powerful, puffy, or somewhere in between — this episode gives you evidence-based, real-deal support you can count on.
IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’LL LEARN:
- What your baby is doing right now inside the womb at 24 weeks
- Why “pregnancy brain” is a real thing (and what’s causing it!)
- Surprising breast changes that are setting the stage for breastfeeding
- What to do if you're experiencing round ligament pain or weird dreams
- One powerful way to prepare for a smoother birth and breastfeeding experience
- Why Week 24 is a game-changing time to grab the Bump To Bundle Blueprint
🎁 LINKS & RESOURCES:
💖 Grab the Bump To Bundle Blueprint childbirth course
📲 Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for pregnancy + breastfeeding tips:
👉 @BirthPrepAcademy
🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a fellow mama!
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
(00:05):
Hi, I'm Stephanie Poole, founderand CEO of Birth Prep Academy.
I'm on a mission to helppregnant moms prepare for their
first hospital birth.
I'm sharing revealingconversations about what it
really takes to successfullytransition into motherhood.
So join me.
Here to discover things likewhat to expect in childbirth,
(00:27):
how to prepare for your birth.
We'll also talk aboutbreastfeeding and so much more.
I'm so grateful to share it allwith you right here on Oh Baby,
the podcast created for pregnantmoms preparing for their first
hospital birth.
Let's get started.
Hey mama, and welcome back ifyou are 24 weeks.
(00:50):
First of all, congratulationsbecause you are actually six
months in today.
I'm diving into the real stuffabout 24 weeks that no one tells
you the good, the weird, andthe.
Absolute mind blowing.
We are talking about what'shappening with your baby, the
(01:12):
super important warning signsthat you need to know and why.
This week is actually a hugeturning point for you and your
little one.
So stick with me to the endbecause I'm sharing a secret
weapon that you can use rightnow to start preparing for your
breastfeeding journey so thatyou can breastfeed like a pro
(01:36):
even before your baby arrives.
With that being said, let's jumpin.
All right.
First up, your baby right now isabout the size of a corn on the
cob, about 12 inches long andjust over one pound.
But here's the exciting part.
Your baby's taste buds areworking.
(01:58):
Over time, you know, we'vetalked about this in a previous
video, but it's always worthrevisiting.
Science shows that babies starttasting the foods you're eating
through your amniotic fluid.
So here's a pro tip.
Eating a wide variety of healthyfoods now may actually help your
(02:18):
baby like more flavors.
After birth.
So yes, the broccoli that youdon't like and that you probably
may even be forcing down rightnow will likely be totally worth
it in the end.
All right, so now let's talkabout their lungs.
They are prepping hardcore.
(02:38):
We also reviewed this in aprevious video, but in case
you're new here, let's just kindof hit this information to get
you caught up.
Your baby's lungs are startingto form branches in their
respiratory tree, and it's alsostarting to make more
surfactant, which is a crucialfluid that helps them breathe
(03:00):
after birth.
Now, here's a fun fact for you.
Babies born after 24 weeks areconsidered by the medical
community as what is calledviable, meaning that they have a
chance of surviving outside thewomb with medical support, which
might I add is a majormilestone, So.
(03:24):
I just wanna pause to saycongratulations for making it to
this major milestone.
Mama, you are moving rightalong, so just stay encouraged.
Alright, now let's talk aboutsleep cycles.
Your baby is now having regularsleep and wake cycles, which
(03:44):
might be why you feel suddenkicks at 2:00 AM.
Here's a fun tip.
You can gently tap your bellywhen they're awake and often
feel them respond.
It's the cutest thing ever.
Okay, so let's just make a quickpivot because coming up I'm
gonna talk about the red flagsymptoms that you don't wanna
(04:06):
ignore this week and how you cantell when to call your provider.
So stick with me.
Now let's talk about your bodybecause at 24 weeks things are
getting real, my friend.
Here's what you might be feelingand what's normal versus what's
not So last backup and just talkabout some common symptoms.
(04:31):
Okay, so first up, let's talkabout shortness of breath.
Your growing uterus is pushingup against your lungs, making
you feel out of breath just bywalking to the fridge.
Now, as inconvenient as this maybe, it is totally normal, but
just remember, if you ever feelchest pain or severe trouble
(04:54):
breathing, be sure to stop andcall your provider.
Okay, let's talk about leakyboobs.
Yep, I said it.
Your body is already practicingfor breastfeeding.
Some moms notice a little bit ofcolostrum starting to leak out,
and this is the nutrient packedliquid gold that your baby will
(05:19):
get right after birth.
So here's a pro tip.
now I don't want you to startusing a pump We don't wanna
trigger any prematurecontractions, just let it happen
naturally.
You can use soft breast pads ifthe leaking is bothersome.
All right, let's talk aboutbelly button changes.
(05:42):
This is the week many womennotice their belly button
starting to pop out.
It's all thanks to yourexpanding uterus and stretching
skin.
So here's a tip.
First off, this is totallynormal and it usually goes back
after birth.
So for now, just try to embracethe Outie if it happens.
(06:07):
Alright, let's talk about roundligament pain because we haven't
talked about it in a video ortwo The round ligament pain that
you're experiencing, may bequick and sharp pains on the
side of your belly.
That's your ligaments stretchingto support your bump.
So another pro tip is to try tobe mindful, to move more slowly
(06:29):
when changing positions and andtry some prenatal stretches to
ease the tension of thatstretching.
Okay, so as promised, let's justdo a quick review of warning
signs that I want you to watchout for.
First up, swelling in your handsand face.
(06:50):
Also, persistent headaches.
Vision changes like blurring orflashing lights and sudden
painful contractions.
If you notice any of thesethings, don't wait.
Call your provider right away.
I like to say it's always betterto err on the side of caution
(07:15):
and be safe than sorry.
All right, so next up I'msharing a super simple hack that
you can start today that makeslabor prep way easier later.
You're gonna love this one, sostick with me.
All right, so listen up.
24 weeks is prime time to startlowkey prepping for birth and
(07:37):
breastfeeding even if it feelsfar away.
Here's what I wish more momsknew.
Practice deep breathing now.
Let me say this one again.
Practice deep breathing.
Now I'm serious.
It's something so simple, but soimportant.
breathing isn't just for labor.
(07:59):
Okay.
Practicing slow deep breaths nowhelps to train your body to
relax under pressure.
Also, it's super helpful forlabor and those stressful
newborn days.
So I want you to try the simple4, 7, 8 breath, and it simply
(08:19):
goes like this.
I want you to inhale for fourcounts.
Hold for seven.
And exhale for eight.
Let me say that again.
Inhale for four counts, hold forseven, and exhale for eight.
This simple breathing pattern isa game changer.
(08:44):
You're welcome.
All right.
Next I want you to startmoisturizing your bump.
Now, to be clear, stretch marksare partly genetic, but keeping
your skin moisturized helps withthe itchiness and comfort as
your belly grows.
So look for products with sheabutter and coconut oil.
(09:05):
And here's a bonus tip.
A light belly massage can alsohelp you connect with your
growing baby.
So grab the lotion or oil andmoisturize away.
okay.
Now next up, I want you to planfor breastfeeding education.
Now here's a spoiler alert.
Breastfeeding doesn't magicallyhappen just because you want it
(09:28):
to.
In fact, learning the basics nowsets you up for success later.
As a matter of fact, that'sexactly what I had in mind when
I created.
Teach Me How to BreastfeedInside.
I teach you step by step how toprepare your breast and your
mindset for breastfeeding evenbefore you give birth, so you're
(09:49):
not Googling how to breastfeedwhile sleep deprived at 2:00 AM.
Girl, I got you.
Don't worry about it.
You won't need to do that.
'cause you'll be prepared.
And stick around because in justa second, I'm sharing the
mindset shift that'll make therest of your pregnancy way more
peaceful.
All right, mama.
Real talk from now on.
(10:11):
It's not about getting your oldbody back or bouncing back fast.
It's about building strengthphysically, emotionally.
And mentally, here's the mindsetshift I want you to grab onto
this week.
I'm not just growing a baby, I'mgrowing a new, stronger version
(10:32):
of myself.
Let me say that again,'causethis is really important.
I'm not just growing a baby, I'mgrowing a new, stronger version
of myself.
Your journey is powerful.
Your body isn't broken.
It's breathtaking.
Start celebrating those smallvictories.
(10:54):
Walking a little farther today.
Well, that's a huge win.
Choosing to rest when you needit.
That's strength too.
You're doing incredible.
All right, gorgeous.
That's your full scoop on whatto expect at 24 weeks.
The real, the weird.
And the wonderful.
(11:14):
If you want even more supportgetting ready for labor, birth,
and breastfeeding without theoverwhelm, make sure to check
out bump to bundle blueprint.
It's everything you need to feelprepared, confident, and
actually excited for birth.
And beyond.
The link is below, so grab yourspot before your baby arrives.
(11:36):
If you found this helpful, besure to hit the like button.
Subscribe for more real talkpregnancy videos, and drop me a
comment.
How are you feeling at 24 weeks?
I'm sending you.
Big hugs and good vibes, mama.
See you in the next video.
Hi, I'm Stephanie Poole, founderand CEO of Birth Prep Academy.
I'm on a mission to helppregnant moms prepare for their
first hospital birth.
I'm sharing revealingconversations about what it
really takes to successfullytransition into motherhood.
So join me.
Here to discover things likewhat to expect in childbirth,
(00:27):
how to prepare for your birth.
We'll also talk aboutbreastfeeding and so much more.
I'm so grateful to share it allwith you right here on Oh Baby,
the podcast created for pregnantmoms preparing for their first
hospital birth.
Let's get started.
Hey mama, and welcome back ifyou are 24 weeks.
(00:50):
First of all, congratulationsbecause you are actually six
months in today.
I'm diving into the real stuffabout 24 weeks that no one tells
you the good, the weird, andthe.
Absolute mind blowing.
We are talking about what'shappening with your baby, the
(01:12):
super important warning signsthat you need to know and why.
This week is actually a hugeturning point for you and your
little one.
So stick with me to the endbecause I'm sharing a secret
weapon that you can use rightnow to start preparing for your
breastfeeding journey so thatyou can breastfeed like a pro
(01:36):
even before your baby arrives.
With that being said, let's jumpin.
All right.
First up, your baby right now isabout the size of a corn on the
cob, about 12 inches long andjust over one pound.
But here's the exciting part.
Your baby's taste buds areworking.
(01:58):
Over time, you know, we'vetalked about this in a previous
video, but it's always worthrevisiting.
Science shows that babies starttasting the foods you're eating
through your amniotic fluid.
So here's a pro tip.
Eating a wide variety of healthyfoods now may actually help your
(02:18):
baby like more flavors.
After birth.
So yes, the broccoli that youdon't like and that you probably
may even be forcing down rightnow will likely be totally worth
it in the end.
All right, so now let's talkabout their lungs.
They are prepping hardcore.
(02:38):
We also reviewed this in aprevious video, but in case
you're new here, let's just kindof hit this information to get
you caught up.
Your baby's lungs are startingto form branches in their
respiratory tree, and it's alsostarting to make more
surfactant, which is a crucialfluid that helps them breathe
(03:00):
after birth.
Now, here's a fun fact for you.
Babies born after 24 weeks areconsidered by the medical
community as what is calledviable, meaning that they have a
chance of surviving outside thewomb with medical support, which
might I add is a majormilestone, So.
(03:24):
I just wanna pause to saycongratulations for making it to
this major milestone.
Mama, you are moving rightalong, so just stay encouraged.
Alright, now let's talk aboutsleep cycles.
Your baby is now having regularsleep and wake cycles, which
(03:44):
might be why you feel suddenkicks at 2:00 AM.
Here's a fun tip.
You can gently tap your bellywhen they're awake and often
feel them respond.
It's the cutest thing ever.
Okay, so let's just make a quickpivot because coming up I'm
gonna talk about the red flagsymptoms that you don't wanna
(04:06):
ignore this week and how you cantell when to call your provider.
So stick with me.
Now let's talk about your bodybecause at 24 weeks things are
getting real, my friend.
Here's what you might be feelingand what's normal versus what's
not So last backup and just talkabout some common symptoms.
(04:31):
Okay, so first up, let's talkabout shortness of breath.
Your growing uterus is pushingup against your lungs, making
you feel out of breath just bywalking to the fridge.
Now, as inconvenient as this maybe, it is totally normal, but
just remember, if you ever feelchest pain or severe trouble
(04:54):
breathing, be sure to stop andcall your provider.
Okay, let's talk about leakyboobs.
Yep, I said it.
Your body is already practicingfor breastfeeding.
Some moms notice a little bit ofcolostrum starting to leak out,
and this is the nutrient packedliquid gold that your baby will
(05:19):
get right after birth.
So here's a pro tip.
now I don't want you to startusing a pump We don't wanna
trigger any prematurecontractions, just let it happen
naturally.
You can use soft breast pads ifthe leaking is bothersome.
All right, let's talk aboutbelly button changes.
(05:42):
This is the week many womennotice their belly button
starting to pop out.
It's all thanks to yourexpanding uterus and stretching
skin.
So here's a tip.
First off, this is totallynormal and it usually goes back
after birth.
So for now, just try to embracethe Outie if it happens.
(06:07):
Alright, let's talk about roundligament pain because we haven't
talked about it in a video ortwo The round ligament pain that
you're experiencing, may bequick and sharp pains on the
side of your belly.
That's your ligaments stretchingto support your bump.
So another pro tip is to try tobe mindful, to move more slowly
(06:29):
when changing positions and andtry some prenatal stretches to
ease the tension of thatstretching.
Okay, so as promised, let's justdo a quick review of warning
signs that I want you to watchout for.
First up, swelling in your handsand face.
(06:50):
Also, persistent headaches.
Vision changes like blurring orflashing lights and sudden
painful contractions.
If you notice any of thesethings, don't wait.
Call your provider right away.
I like to say it's always betterto err on the side of caution
(07:15):
and be safe than sorry.
All right, so next up I'msharing a super simple hack that
you can start today that makeslabor prep way easier later.
You're gonna love this one, sostick with me.
All right, so listen up.
24 weeks is prime time to startlowkey prepping for birth and
(07:37):
breastfeeding even if it feelsfar away.
Here's what I wish more momsknew.
Practice deep breathing now.
Let me say this one again.
Practice deep breathing.
Now I'm serious.
It's something so simple, but soimportant.
breathing isn't just for labor.
(07:59):
Okay.
Practicing slow deep breaths nowhelps to train your body to
relax under pressure.
Also, it's super helpful forlabor and those stressful
newborn days.
So I want you to try the simple4, 7, 8 breath, and it simply
(08:19):
goes like this.
I want you to inhale for fourcounts.
Hold for seven.
And exhale for eight.
Let me say that again.
Inhale for four counts, hold forseven, and exhale for eight.
This simple breathing pattern isa game changer.
(08:44):
You're welcome.
All right.
Next I want you to startmoisturizing your bump.
Now, to be clear, stretch marksare partly genetic, but keeping
your skin moisturized helps withthe itchiness and comfort as
your belly grows.
So look for products with sheabutter and coconut oil.
(09:05):
And here's a bonus tip.
A light belly massage can alsohelp you connect with your
growing baby.
So grab the lotion or oil andmoisturize away.
okay.
Now next up, I want you to planfor breastfeeding education.
Now here's a spoiler alert.
Breastfeeding doesn't magicallyhappen just because you want it
(09:28):
to.
In fact, learning the basics nowsets you up for success later.
As a matter of fact, that'sexactly what I had in mind when
I created.
Teach Me How to BreastfeedInside.
I teach you step by step how toprepare your breast and your
mindset for breastfeeding evenbefore you give birth, so you're
(09:49):
not Googling how to breastfeedwhile sleep deprived at 2:00 AM.
Girl, I got you.
Don't worry about it.
You won't need to do that.
'cause you'll be prepared.
And stick around because in justa second, I'm sharing the
mindset shift that'll make therest of your pregnancy way more
peaceful.
All right, mama.
Real talk from now on.
(10:11):
It's not about getting your oldbody back or bouncing back fast.
It's about building strengthphysically, emotionally.
And mentally, here's the mindsetshift I want you to grab onto
this week.
I'm not just growing a baby, I'mgrowing a new, stronger version
(10:32):
of myself.
Let me say that again,'causethis is really important.
I'm not just growing a baby, I'mgrowing a new, stronger version
of myself.
Your journey is powerful.
Your body isn't broken.
It's breathtaking.
Start celebrating those smallvictories.
(10:54):
Walking a little farther today.
Well, that's a huge win.
Choosing to rest when you needit.
That's strength too.
You're doing incredible.
All right, gorgeous.
That's your full scoop on whatto expect at 24 weeks.
The real, the weird.
And the wonderful.
(11:14):
If you want even more supportgetting ready for labor, birth,
and breastfeeding without theoverwhelm, make sure to check
out bump to bundle blueprint.
It's everything you need to feelprepared, confident, and
actually excited for birth.
And beyond.
The link is below, so grab yourspot before your baby arrives.
(11:36):
If you found this helpful, besure to hit the like button.
Subscribe for more real talkpregnancy videos, and drop me a
comment.
How are you feeling at 24 weeks?
I'm sending you.
Big hugs and good vibes, mama.
See you in the next video.
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