You've hit 28 weeks in your pregnancy which is a wonderful time to start building your bond with your baby. Chatting, reading, or singing to your bump can be a lovely way to connect, as your baby can now hear your voice and will react with kicks and movement.
At 28 weeks pregnant you'll also have some important tests to monitor your health and your baby's development. These prenatal checks are important for ensuring everything is progressing smoothly.
"At 28 weeks pregnant, you're entering the third trimester, the final stretch of your pregnancy journey. This period is marked by significant growth and development for your baby, as well as some physical and emotional changes for you," says Emiliana Hall, a birth and postnatal doula and founder of The Mindful Birth Group®. She also gives us expert advice and insight on what exactly to expect later on in the article.
How many months pregnant is 28 weeks
At 28 weeks, you're about 7 months along (only 2 more months left to go!) and in your third trimester - the final stretch of your pregnancy journey.
28 weeks pregnant symptoms
Heartburn and indigestion
Hormonal changes can relax the valve between your stomach and oesophagus, leading to uncomfortable heartburn. Eating smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding spicy or fatty foods can help manage this.
Faintness or dizziness
Your burgeoning bump may be leading you to feel a little light-headed, as increased pressure is put on your blood vessels and reduces blood flow to the brain. If you’re feeling dizzy, make sure you keep your blood circulating well by drinking lots of water
Stuffy nose
If you feel like you have a cold, this may be due to the high levels of pregnancy hormones increasing blood flow to the mucous membranes in your nose, and causing them to swell. Nasal strips can help open your nostrils and make it easier to breathe.
Back pain
The extra weight and shifting centre of gravity can strain your back. Practising good posture, wearing supportive shoes, and avoiding heavy lifting can help alleviate discomfort. Try sleeping or sitting with a good pregnancy pillow to help with back pain and when sleeping, you may find that one can support your bump, another for your back and perhaps even one between your legs.
Sciatica
Tingling leg pain is a sign of sciatica or restless legs syndrome. As your baby moves around to get ready for birth, their head may decide to rest on the sciatic nerve in your lower spine, leading to some less than pleasant sensations: shooting pain, tingling or numbness in your buttocks and the backs of your legs. If you're resting and feel the urge to move your legs or feel a crawling sensation, this could be restless legs syndrome. While the feeling can pass if your baby moves positions, it can also stay with you until childbirth. Try resting, warm baths, stretches or a heating pad to help with the pain.
Constipation
Pregnancy hormones such as relaxin are busy loosening up the ligaments in your body for when your baby arrives. An unfortunate side effect is that they also relax the muscles around the intestines, leaving you with sluggish digestion which can lead to constipation. If you're suffering, include more fibre-rich food in your diet such as wholemeal bread, beans and pulses and porridge oats. Drink plenty of fluids, and gentle exercise such as swimming or walking can help get things moving.
Swollen ankles and feet
To reduce this swelling, elevate your feet when possible, stay hydrated, and avoid standing for long periods.
Shortness of breath
As your uterus expands, it can press against your diaphragm, making it harder to breathe deeply. Practising gentle prenatal yoga and relaxation techniques can help.
Braxton Hicks Contractions
"Braxton Hicks are 'practice' contractions can start becoming more noticeable. They are usually irregular and painless but can be a sign your body is preparing for labour," Emiliana continues.
Bleeding gums
Pregnancy hormones may cause gums to swell and leave your mouth more vulnerable to bacteria and plaque. Take advantage of free dental checks during your pregnancy to ensure you're doing everything you can to to limit the amount of bacteria in your mouth.
Baby development at 28 weeks pregnant
By 28 weeks, your baby weighs around 1 kilogram (2.2 pounds) and measures approximately 38 centimetres (15 inches) from head to toe. Your baby’s is as big as a head of lettuce this week and is getting ready to meet the outside world, settling into the proper position for birth with their head facing downwards. Here are some key developmental milestones:
Lungs and breathing
Your baby's lungs are maturing, and they are starting to practice breathing movements, inhaling and exhaling small amounts of amniotic fluid. This practice is crucial for lung development.
Brain growth
The brain is developing rapidly, increasing in complexity and size. Neural connections are forming, setting the stage for future learning and cognitive functions. Your baby has also started dreaming of you: brain wave activity measured in foetuses shows that babies in the womb go through different sleep cycles, including the REM (rapid eye movement) phase, when dreaming occurs.
Eyes and ears
Your baby's eyes can now open and close, and they can sense changes in light and dark and may even be able to see light filtering in through your womb. Whether you’re singing along to the radio, gossiping with friends or just chatting away to yourself, your baby will be able to hear you. In fact, the sound of your voice will help to calm her – studies have shown that your baby’s heart rate actually drops when they hears your voice. Encourage your partner to talk to your bump too – it’s a great way to start fostering a bond between them.
Sleep cycles
Distinct sleep and wake cycles are beginning to form, and you may notice your baby being more active at certain times of the day, Emiliana says.
Your body at 28 weeks pregnant
There's still a lot of growing to do at 28 weeks pregnant and as your little one takes up more space inside your belly, the extra pressure on your stomach may be causing you more heartburn and indigestion. You may find it difficult to sleep now as your baby grows but a good pregnancy pillows should help and also encourage you go to sleep on your side, which is the safest sleeping position for your baby in late pregnancy.
Sensitive skin can also surface during pregnancy. Some parts of the body may react because they’re dry and flaky, others because of heat rash or a body lotion that you've already been using for the past few years.
You should also now be gaining more weight as your baby gets bigger. Try to keep an eye on what you're eating and aim to eat healthy, nutritious meals every day and incorporate fresh fruit and vegetables as well as the right amount of carbs (starchy foods like bread, pasta and potatoes) and protein, which can be found in beans, fish, eggs, meat and dairy. It's fine to enjoy some sweet treats or give in to your cravings and don’t panic if your bump isn't as big as other women's; it doesn't mean your baby isn't growing.
Looking after yourself at 28 weeks pregnant
Talk to your baby
It's a great time to start talking to your little one and encouraging others around you to talk to them too. Speaking and singing to your baby regularly is a great way of helping them get to know their mum's voice which will be a comfort for them once they enter the world.
Emotional well-being
Pregnancy can be an emotional rollercoaster. It's normal to feel a mix of excitement, anxiety, and anticipation. Here are some tips Emiliana offers to support your emotional health:
• Connect with others: Share your thoughts and feelings with your partner, friends, or a support group. Connecting with other expectant parents can provide reassurance and camaraderie.
• Practice self-care: Take time for yourself to relax and do things you enjoy. Whether it’s reading a book, taking a bath, or practising mindfulness, self-care is essential.
• Ask for help: Don’t hesitate to reach out for support if you’re feeling overwhelmed. Your midwife can provide resources and guidance for managing stress and anxiety.
What to do at 28 weeks pregnant
• Prenatal appointments: Continue to attend regular prenatal check-ups. From 28 weeks, you may have appointments every two weeks. Your midwife or doctor will monitor your baby's growth and your health, checking for conditions like gestational diabetes and pre-eclampsia. Pay attention to your baby's movements as knowing their usual patterns can help you notice any changes that may need medical attention. Aim to feel at least 10 movements within two hours.
• Nutrition and hydration: Maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and protein. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
• Exercise: Continue with safe, moderate exercise like walking, gentle swimming, or prenatal yoga. Exercise can boost your mood, improve sleep, and reduce discomfort. If you didn't go to the gym before you fell pregnant, now is not the time to start, but you can do the above mentioned gentle exercise. Incorporate some pregnancy safe pelvic floor exercises into your workout routine.
• Birth plan: Start thinking about your birth plan and preferences. "Discuss your preferences with your midwife or birthing team, including birth place, pain relief options, birthing positions, and who you want to be present during labour," Emiliana adds.
• Nursery set up: Begin setting up the nursery, if you haven't already. Ensure the baby crib, changing station, and other essentials are in place.
• Hospital bag: Start packing your hospital bag with necessities like comfortable clothing, toiletries, baby outfits, and important documents.
• Antenatal classes: "Consider attending antenatal classes or workshops. These can provide valuable information on childbirth, infant feeding, and newborn care," adds Emiliana.
Scans and appointments at 28 weeks pregnant
At around this point in your pregnancy, your midwife will check your blood count to make sure you’re not anaemic and prescribe you iron supplements if you are. If you're considered high-risk, you'll also be screened for gestational diabetes at this stage.
Emiliana says, "You’ll be asked to fast the night before and at your appointment, your midwife will take a urine sample to get a fasting baseline level. You’ll then be given a glucose load – usually a thick, sugary drink – and be tested again – either two hours later or with blood prick tests every half hour. This is to see how your body deals with glucose (the sugar you drank). In a nutshell, if your body can’t produce insulin, which is needed to help reduce glucose to normal levels, it could be a sign of gestational diabetes.
Conclusion
As you step into the third trimester at 28 weeks, the anticipation is building before you meet your little one. Continue to prioritise your well-being, listen to your body, and don't hesitate to reach out to your midwife or provider with any questions or concerns. This final stretch is a remarkable journey of preparation, full of exciting milestones for both you and your baby.
FAQs 28 weeks pregnant
How do I know my baby is ok at 28 weeks?
One of the most important ways to monitor their well-being is by paying attention to your baby's fetal movements. You should be feeling distinct kicks, rolls, and stretches, and your midwife will likely recommend kick counts around this time to help you track their activity. Alongside this, your routine antenatal appointments are crucial, where your midwife or doctor will check your blood pressure, urine, and baby's growth and heartbeat. In some cases, a growth scan may also be recommended to get a more detailed look at your baby's development. Remember, trusting your instincts and communicating any concerns with your healthcare provider are key to ensuring your baby's continued health.
Should I be resting at 28 weeks pregnant?
Your don't need to rest completely at 28 weeks pregnant unless your doctor has told you but you should avoid lifting anything heavy at 28 weeks pregnant. Light activity, exercise and stretching will help with general energy levels.
Is it safe to go on holiday 28 weeks pregnant?
Going on holiday at 28 weeks pregnant is generally safe for most women with an uncomplicated pregnancy. However, as you're officially in the third trimester, consult your midwife or doctor before making any plans. Some airlines will require a "fit-to-fly" letter after 28 weeks, and comprehensive travel insurance that specifically covers pregnancy-related complications is absolutely essential.
Meet the expert
Emiliana Hall is the founder of The Mindful Birth Group® which provides award-winning Mindful Natal® courses and the PregnaHub® app, as well as an accredited Teacher Training program and Midwife CPD courses. She is also an experienced Birth and Postnatal Doula. Emiliana's vision is to make vital antenatal and postnatal education and ongoing support accessible to everyone in the UK.
About the author
Maria Martin is Digital Group Editor for Yours.co.uk and Motherandbaby.com. She is a mum-of-two with a passion for helping women from all walks of life – from supporting breastfeeding mothers with expert advice to encouraging conversations about mental health.