“Pregnancy is a journey measured not just in weeks, but in moments of growth, love, and strength.”
Welcome to Week 28 of your pregnancy—a significant milestone that marks the beginning of your third trimester! With just 12 weeks to go, you’re entering the final stretch of your beautiful journey. This week is all about growth—your baby’s, your belly’s, and your emotional readiness for the arrival of your little one.
Let’s walk through what to expect during this pivotal week in terms of your baby’s development, your changing body, and important wellness tips to support you along the way.
How Big Is Your Baby at 28 Weeks?
At Week 28, your baby is about the size of an eggplant—measuring around 14.8 inches long and weighing approximately 2.2 to 2.5 pounds. This week, your baby continues to plump up, gaining fat to help regulate body temperature after birth.
Here are some incredible developments happening now:
- Eyes open: Your baby can open and close their eyes and even blink!
- Brain development: Brain tissue is developing rapidly, and the grooves in the brain are becoming more defined.
- Dreaming begins: Scientists believe babies may start to experience REM sleep, which means they might be dreaming.
- Lungs maturing: Lung development continues, and while not fully mature, they are increasingly capable of supporting breathing.
Common Symptoms at 28 Weeks Pregnant
As your uterus continues to expand, you may notice several new or intensifying symptoms. These include:
- Shortness of breath: Your growing uterus can press against your diaphragm, making deep breaths more challenging.
- Backaches and pelvic pressure: Your joints are loosening and muscles working harder to support the extra weight.
- Leg cramps: Often occurring at night, these can be painful and are common during the third trimester.
- Heartburn: Hormonal shifts and your baby’s position can contribute to indigestion and reflux.
- Frequent urination: The pressure on your bladder increases, making more bathroom trips inevitable.
All of these changes are normal in pregnancy, but that doesn’t mean you have to suffer in silence. Speak with your doctor if symptoms interfere with daily life.
Your Body at Week 28
By Week 28, your uterus is about 3 inches above your belly button. You’ve likely gained around 17 to 24 pounds depending on your pre-pregnancy weight and your doctor’s guidance. You may also notice:
- Swelling in the ankles and feet: This is due to fluid retention and is common in later pregnancy.
- Stretch marks: They may appear on your belly, breasts, or thighs as your skin stretches.
- Leaking colostrum: Your breasts might begin leaking this early form of milk, a sign your body is preparing for breastfeeding.
Emotional Shifts and Mental Health
Entering the third trimester can bring a mix of emotions—joy, anxiety, and anticipation. You may be nesting, preparing the nursery, or getting nervous about labor. These are all valid feelings. Here are a few tips to support your mental well-being:
- Stay connected with your support system: Partner, friends, family, or a therapist.
- Practice mindfulness: Deep breathing, prenatal yoga, or journaling can help manage anxiety.
- Educate yourself: Knowledge reduces fear. Attend childbirth classes or read about labor and delivery.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, seek guidance from your doctor or mental health professional.
Doctor’s Appointments and Tests This Week
At Week 28, you’ll likely have your glucose screening test if you haven’t already. This test checks for gestational diabetes. If your glucose levels are elevated, a follow-up test will confirm the diagnosis.
Other things to discuss during your prenatal appointment include:
- Tracking your baby’s movements (kick counts)
- Pre-registering at the hospital or birthing center
- Reviewing your birth plan with your provider
- Receiving a Rh immunoglobulin shot (if you’re Rh-negative)
Nutrition Tips for Pregnancy Week 28
Your baby needs plenty of nutrients as they hit a period of rapid growth. Make sure your diet includes:
- Iron-rich foods: Spinach, beans, red meat, and fortified cereals help prevent anemia.
- Calcium: Support baby’s bones with dairy, almonds, and leafy greens.
- Protein: Supports muscle development—eggs, legumes, chicken, tofu, and fish are great choices.
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water to prevent swelling and support digestion.
Preparing for the Final Trimester
As the countdown to your due date begins, consider preparing for the weeks ahead:
- Create or finalize your birth plan
- Discuss maternity leave with your employer
- Pack a hospital bag checklist
- Begin baby-proofing your home
- Consider hiring a doula or postpartum support person
Quick Checklist for Week 28
- [ ] Take your glucose screening test
- [ ] Track baby’s kicks daily
- [ ] Eat iron-rich foods and stay hydrated
- [ ] Schedule your next prenatal appointment
- [ ] Begin organizing baby’s space
You’re doing an amazing job, mama. The third trimester is a powerful time of preparation—not just for labor, but for the incredible transition into motherhood. Let’s continue this journey together, one week at a time. Week 29 is right around the corner!
Stay supported, stay nourished, and remember—you were made for this. 💛