I remember when I hit 28 weeks pregnant. It was such a surreal moment. I was officially in my third trimester, and the countdown to meeting my baby was on. The excitement was real, but I won’t lie — it wasn’t all smooth sailing. As my belly grew and my baby’s kicks became more pronounced, I was also feeling the physical toll that pregnancy takes. Backaches, swollen feet, and sleepless nights were becoming more common, and I found myself wondering if this was just how things were going to be until I finally met my little one.
If you’re 28 weeks pregnant right now, you might be feeling the same way. There’s a lot happening in your body, and the physical discomforts can sometimes outweigh the excitement. But don’t worry, mama, I’ve been there too. You’re getting closer to the finish line, and in this post, I’ll walk you through everything you can expect at 28 weeks, tips for staying comfortable, and how to make the most of this incredible milestone. Let’s dive into what’s going on with you and your baby as you get ready for the third trimester!
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1. Your Baby’s Development at 28 Weeks Pregnant
At 28 weeks pregnant, your baby is growing quickly and developing at an impressive rate. Here’s what’s happening inside your belly:
Size and Weight
Your baby is about the size of an eggplant, measuring around 14 to 15 inches long and weighing just over 2 pounds. It’s amazing how much they’ve grown, and they’re only going to get bigger in the coming weeks!
Brain Development
Your baby’s brain is becoming more complex as brain tissue increases, and grooves and indentations are forming to make room for more brain cells. It’s hard to believe, but your baby’s brain is starting to look more like that of a newborn.
Senses
By this point, your baby’s senses are well-developed. They can now open and close their eyelids, and they may even respond to bright light shining on your belly. Your baby can also hear sounds from both inside and outside the womb. I remember feeling like I was connecting with my baby more at this stage, especially when I would talk or sing to them. It’s such a special feeling knowing they can hear your voice!
Lungs
Your baby’s lungs are continuing to mature, and they’re producing surfactant, a substance that helps the air sacs stay open after birth. While your baby’s lungs still have some maturing to do, they’re getting stronger and more prepared for life outside the womb.
Movement and Sleep
At 28 weeks, your baby is moving a lot more. Expect more pronounced kicks, turns, and stretches. You might even feel rhythmic jerks, which are likely your baby’s hiccups! Their sleep patterns are becoming more regular too, and now they’re experiencing REM sleep — the stage associated with dreaming. It’s so exciting to think that your baby is not only growing physically but also developing in ways that will help them adjust to the world outside.
2. What’s Happening to Your Body at 28 Weeks Pregnant?
As your baby grows, your body continues to change. Here’s what you might be experiencing at 28 weeks pregnant:
Tiredness and Sleeping Issues
Pregnancy fatigue is still real at this stage, and you might find it harder to get comfortable while sleeping. The growing belly, frequent trips to the bathroom, and your baby’s active movements can make it tough to get a full night’s rest. I found that using a pregnancy pillow helped me get into a more comfortable position, and it made a big difference in how well I slept.
Aches and Pains
As your uterus expands, you may experience backaches, pelvic pressure, and sciatica (pain that radiates from your lower back down your legs). These discomforts can be frustrating, but gentle stretches and good posture can help. I also relied on a warm bath to relieve some of the tension, and it really worked wonders.
Swelling
Swollen hands, feet, and ankles are common during this stage due to increased fluid retention. Try to elevate your feet whenever possible and drink plenty of water. I remember how nice it felt to rest with my feet up after a long day — it really helped reduce the swelling.
Digestive Issues
Your growing uterus can put pressure on your stomach and intestines, which might cause heartburn, bloating, and constipation. Eating smaller meals more frequently throughout the day and avoiding trigger foods can help ease these issues. I found that drinking ginger tea helped with heartburn, and fiber-rich foods helped keep things moving along.
Leaky Breasts
Your breasts may start to leak colostrum, which is the nutrient-rich, yellowish fluid that will nourish your baby in the first few days after birth. This can be a little surprising, but it’s completely normal and just a sign that your body is getting ready to feed your baby.
3. Practical Tips for Staying Comfortable at 28 Weeks Pregnant
Now that you know what’s going on with your body and baby, here are some tips to help you stay comfortable as you enter the third trimester:
Use a Pregnancy Pillow for Better Sleep
A pregnancy pillow can provide the support you need to sleep more comfortably. I used mine every night, and it helped me avoid back pain and find a more restful position. You can also try sleeping on your left side, which can improve blood flow to your baby.
Stay Active (But Listen to Your Body)
Exercise is still important during pregnancy, but it’s important to listen to your body. Low-impact activities like walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga can help relieve discomfort and keep you feeling energized. I took short walks each day, and it really helped with swelling and back pain.
Keep Hydrated
Staying hydrated is key to managing swelling, constipation, and other pregnancy symptoms. Try to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water a day, and avoid sugary or caffeinated drinks. I loved having a water bottle with me throughout the day to remind me to stay hydrated.
Take Breaks and Rest When Needed
Pregnancy can be tiring, and it’s important to listen to your body when you need rest. Take breaks throughout the day, and don’t feel guilty about napping if you need it. I found that a short rest helped me recharge and feel more energized.
Prepare for Your Glucose Test
At 28 weeks, you’ll likely be scheduled for a glucose tolerance test to check for gestational diabetes. This test is important, but it’s also quick and easy. Just follow your doctor’s instructions on fasting or eating beforehand.
4. Expert Insights on Pregnancy at 28 Weeks
Expert Insight on Baby’s Development
Dr. Lisa Turner, OB-GYN, shares, “At 28 weeks, your baby is rapidly maturing. Their lungs are producing surfactant, and their brain activity is increasing. You may start to notice regular sleep-wake cycles, which means your baby is preparing for life outside the womb.”
Advice on Swelling and Aches
According to the American Pregnancy Association, mild swelling and aches are common during the third trimester. Make sure to elevate your feet and stay hydrated to reduce swelling. If you experience sudden or severe swelling, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
5. Wrapping Up with Love & Support
Mama, you’re doing an amazing job! At 28 weeks pregnant, you’re entering the third trimester, and the excitement to meet your little one is building every day. Your body is working hard to support your growing baby, and it’s okay to feel tired or uncomfortable at times. Take things one day at a time, and don’t forget to ask for help when you need it. You’ve got this, and your baby is getting stronger every day. Keep up the great work!
What’s been your biggest challenge so far during your pregnancy? Is it the swelling, the discomfort, or something else? Share your experience in the comments — I’d love to hear from you! And if you found this post helpful, don’t forget to share it with a friend who’s also expecting. We’re all in this together, mama! 💕