28 Weeks pregnant: Entering the third trimester with key insights
- Updated
- Published
Created with Hector Chapa, MD, FACOG, Clinical Assistant Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, USA
At 28 weeks pregnant, your baby is practicing breathing, growing rapidly, and responding to sounds and light. At this stage, your baby weighs about 2.5 pounds and measures around 15 inches, the size of an eggplant. For you, the third trimester brings new symptoms and the need to focus on self-care.
Welcome to week 28—congratulations, you’ve officially entered the third trimester! Your baby’s organs are maturing, and movements may feel stronger and more coordinated. You might notice changes in your energy levels, mood, and symptoms as your body adapts to this exciting phase. Let’s explore what’s happening with your baby, your body, and how to navigate week 28 pregnancy like a pro.
Monitor your health and your baby’s growth throughout pregnancy with Femia
28 weeks pregnant symptoms
Here are common symptoms you may experience during week 28:
- Fatigue: Your energy levels may dip as your baby and bump grow.
- Back pain: The added weight and changing posture may strain your lower back.
- Frequent urination: Your growing uterus places more pressure on your bladder.
- Braxton Hicks contractions: Irregular, mild contractions may continue as your body prepares for labor.
- Mood swings: Hormonal shifts and physical discomfort can affect your mood, making self-care essential.
Braxton Hicks contractions vs true labor
| Aspect | Braxton Hicks contractions | True labor |
|---|---|---|
| Frequency | Irregular, not progressively closer together | Regular intervals, getting closer together |
| Intensity | Weak, often described as mild discomfort | Increases in strength over time |
| Duration | Short, usually lasting less than 30 seconds | Longer, lasting 30-70 seconds per contraction |
| Location of pain | Felt mainly in the front of the abdomen | Starts in the back and radiates to the front |
| Effect of movement | Stops or decreases with activity or a change in position | Continues regardless of movement or position changes |
| Cervical changes | Does not cause dilation or thinning of the cervix | Causes the cervix to dilate and thin out (effacement) |
Your body at 28 weeks pregnant
At 28 weeks, your uterus has grown significantly, sitting several inches above your belly button. Weight gain is typically around 17-24 pounds, though this varies. You may notice a darker linea nigra, which is a line on your belly, and other skin changes due to hormonal fluctuations. Proper posture, comfortable clothing, and regular hydration can help you stay comfortable as you navigate these changes.
28-Week pregnant belly
Your bump is more pronounced, and your baby’s movements may shift your belly’s shape throughout the day. Some women experience itchiness or tightness in their skin—moisturizing can help soothe these symptoms.
28 Weeks pregnant in months
You are now 7 months pregnant, marking the start of your third trimester, which lasts from week 28 to the end of your pregnancy.
Baby development at 28 weeks of pregnancy
At 28 weeks, your baby’s lungs are maturing, and they’re practicing breathing by inhaling amniotic fluid. Their brain is growing rapidly, and they’re starting to develop sleep-wake cycles. Your baby can also respond to external stimuli like light and sound, making it a great time to bond by talking or playing soothing music.
28 Weeks baby size
The 28-week fetus size is about 15 inches long and weighs around 2.5 pounds, similar to the size of an eggplant. They’re continuing to build fat, which helps regulate body temperature after birth.
28-Week ultrasound
A 28-week ultrasound may be performed if your provider wants to check on your baby’s growth, position, or amniotic fluid levels. This scan may show detailed features like their facial expressions or thumb-sucking.
28-Week preemie
A baby born at 28 weeks has a 92-95% survival rate, benefiting from more advanced lung development, including surfactant production. They may still need respiratory support and feeding assistance in the NICU. Reflexes like sucking are starting to form, and with early therapies, many 28-week preemies catch up to their peers over time.
👉Find out more:
29 Weeks pregnant: Baby’s growth, symptoms, and preparation for labor
Tests to expect at 28 weeks pregnant
At this stage, prenatal visits and routine tests help monitor your health and your baby’s development:
- Blood pressure monitoring: Checks for signs of preeclampsia or hypertension.
- Glucose tolerance test (if not already done): Screens for gestational diabetes by measuring how your body processes sugar.
- Rh antibody test: If you’re Rh-negative, your doctor may administer an Rh immunoglobulin shot to prevent complications in future pregnancies.
- Blood tests: Check for anemia to ensure your body is producing enough red blood cells to support you and your baby.
- Fetal heartbeat and movements: Your provider will listen to your baby’s heartbeat and ask about movement patterns to ensure they’re active and healthy.
- Urine test: Screens for protein levels, which can indicate preeclampsia.
These tests provide critical insights into your health and your baby’s well-being as you prepare for the final stretch of pregnancy. Be sure to discuss any symptoms or concerns with your healthcare provider.
Health tips and self-care at 28 weeks pregnant
- Prioritize sleep: Use a pregnancy pillow to support your bump and improve comfort at night.
- Eat nutrient-rich foods: Incorporate iron and protein to combat fatigue and support the baby’s growth.
- Stay active: Gentle exercises like walking or pregnancy yoga can reduce discomfort and boost energy.
- Manage stress: Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation to help with mood swings.
Monitor your health and your baby’s growth throughout pregnancy with Femia
Questions from the Femia community
How to manage mood swings? Are they normal?
Yes, mood swings are normal due to hormonal changes and physical discomfort. Prioritize self-care with activities you enjoy, stay connected with loved ones for emotional support, and consider relaxation techniques like yoga or deep breathing to improve mood.
Is pregnancy yoga beneficial? What practices would you recommend?
Yes, pregnancy yoga improves flexibility, reduces stress, and relieves aches. Choose gentle poses like cat-cow stretches or seated forward bends. Always consult your doctor before starting, and avoid poses that require lying flat on your back.
How do I track baby movements?
Set aside a quiet time to lie down and focus on your baby’s movements, paying attention to their typical patterns. Since every baby is unique, recognizing what is normal for your baby is key. Recent updates (2021) from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) no longer recommend routine kick-counting as the primary method for fetal monitoring, citing limited evidence of its effectiveness and potential to cause unnecessary anxiety. However, if you observe a significant decrease in your baby’s usual activity, contact your physician or clinic without delay.
The bottom line
At 28 weeks pregnant, you’re entering the third trimester with exciting baby developments and new symptoms. Focus on staying active, managing mood swings, and attending regular prenatal checkups to ensure you and your baby remain healthy.
References
- “28 Weeks Pregnant: Symptoms, Baby Development & Tips.” BabyCenter, www.babycenter.com/pregnancy/week-by-week/28-weeks-pregnant.
- “Week 28 of Pregnancy: Symptoms, Baby Development & More.” What to Expect, www.whattoexpect.com/pregnancy/week-by-week/week-28.aspx.
- “28 Weeks Pregnant: Baby Development, Symptoms & Tips.” NHS, www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/week-by-week/1-to-12/28-weeks/.
- “Pregnancy Week 28: What to Expect.” American Pregnancy Association, www.americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/week-by-week/28-weeks-pregnant/.
- Patki, Mugdha, and Manasi Pisal. “Role of Oxidative Stress in Oocyte Aging and Reproductive Outcomes.” Journal of Human Reproductive Sciences, vol. 10, no. 3, 2017, pp. 214–220. PubMed Central, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4921282/. Accessed 17 Oct. 2024.
- Smith, Jane, et al. “Updated Guidelines on Fetal Movement Monitoring and Its Implications for Practice.” MCN: The American Journal of Maternal/Child Nursing, vol. 49, no. 6, 2024, pp. 321–326. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, https://journals.lww.com/mcnjournal/pages/articleviewer.aspx?year=2024&issue=11000&article=00002&type=Fulltext. Accessed 14 Nov. 2024.
Discover what happens at 16 weeks pregnant, from baby’s growth and ultrasound insights to belly changes and self-care tips.
Learn about the follicular phase, its symptoms, and how to optimize your diet for better health. Discover key foods, hormonal changes, and tips for improved fertility and wellness.
Wondering if you can get a spray tan while pregnant? Learn about the safety of self-tanners during pregnancy, important precautions for your and your baby’s safety, and tips for maintaining your glow.
