From feeling those first kicks to watching your belly grow, there’s no denying that pregnancy is an incredible journey. 

This article will explore what you can expect and how to care for yourself at 28 weeks pregnant to be best prepared when your baby arrives. 

Ready to learn about the amazing changes in your body and your baby’s growth at 28 weeks pregnant? Let’s get into it.

Your baby’s development at 28 weeks pregnant

Your baby is about the size of an eggplant and continues to develop rapidly. 

Here are some of the critical milestones your baby may reach this stage:

1. Lung development: Your baby’s lungs continue to mature, and they can now breathe in small amounts of amniotic fluid, which helps develop their respiratory system.
2. Brain development: Your baby’s brain is developing rapidly. They can now regulate their own body temperature and may even respond to sound and light.
3. Sleep-wake cycles: Your baby is now developing regular sleep-wake cycles, which can be observed through their activity levels and movements.
4. Eyelids open: Your baby’s eyelids, fused shut, may now open and close as they develop their sense of sight.
5. Weight gain: Your baby is gaining about 1/2 to 1 pound per week, now roughly 2.2 pounds.
6. Increased movements: Your baby is now more active than ever, with more pronounced and regular movements you can feel.
7. Immune system development: Your baby’s immune system is continuing to develop, with the production of antibodies that will help protect them from infections and ensure your baby’s health.

Your baby’s development at 28 weeks is crucial for their overall health and well-being, and it’s important to continue following a healthy diet and prenatal care routine to support their growth and development.

Your body a 28 weeks pregnant

At 28 weeks pregnant, your body has undergone many changes as it continues to grow and support your developing baby. 

Below are some of the notable changes you may experience at this stage.

Pregnancy symptoms at 28 weeks pregnant

1. Growing belly: Your uterus has expanded to the size of a basketball, and your pregnant belly is noticeably larger. You may experience some discomfort and difficulty with certain activities due to the size of your belly.
2. Weight gain: You may have gained around 17-24 pounds so far, with most of the weight being attributed to your growing baby, placenta, and amniotic fluid.
3. Braxton Hicks contractions: You may experience Braxton Hicks contractions (false labor pains), painless and irregular contractions that help your uterus prepare for labor.
4. Shortness of breath: As your uterus expands and presses against your diaphragm, you may experience shortness of breath and difficulty breathing.
5. Swollen feet and ankles: Due to increased fluid retention in your body, you may experience swollen feet and ankles.
6. Increased vaginal discharge: You may notice an increase in vaginal discharge, which is expected as your body prepares for childbirth.
7. Fatigue: You may feel more tired than usual due to the demands of pregnancy on your body and the discomfort of carrying a growing baby.

While these changes may be uncomfortable, they are all normal and necessary for a healthy pregnancy. 

As always, talk to your healthcare provider if you have concerns or experience unusual symptoms.

Pregnancy hormones at 28 weeks

At 28 weeks of pregnancy, the pregnancy hormones in your body are still crucial in supporting your baby’s development and preparing your body for childbirth. They are also responsible for many challenging pregnancy symptoms, from swelling to tenderness in the pregnancy brain.

Estrogen

Estrogen levels continue to rise during the third trimester to help regulate your body’s fluid balance, support your baby’s developing brain, and stimulate the growth of your uterus and breasts.

Progesterone

Progesterone levels also remain elevated throughout the third trimester to help relax the muscles in your uterus, prevent premature contractions, and support the growth of the placenta.

Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG)

hCG levels start to decline after the first trimester, but they continue to support the production of progesterone and estrogen during the third trimester.

Relaxin

Relaxin levels increase during the third trimester to help soften the ligaments and joints in your pelvis, making it easier for your baby to pass through the birth canal during labor.

Prolactin

Prolactin levels start to rise in the third trimester to stimulate milk production in your breasts in preparation for breastfeeding.

These hormones work together to support your unborn baby’s healthy growth and development and prepare your body for childbirth. 

While they can cause uncomfortable symptoms, such as fatigue, mood swings, and increased vaginal discharge, they are vital in ensuring a healthy pregnancy and delivery.

Self-Care at 28 Weeks pregnant

When it comes to self-care during pregnancy, many popular tips people often recommend, such as getting enough rest, staying hydrated, and eating a healthy diet. 

However, some underrated self-care tips for moms-to-be are worth considering at 28 weeks pregnant:

1. Practice gratitude: Take a few moments each day to reflect on the things you’re grateful for, whether it’s your support system, your health, or your growing baby. This can help shift your focus away from the discomforts of pregnancy and onto the positives.
2. Connect with your partner: Take some time to connect with your partner in a way that doesn’t involve talking about the baby. Whether going for a walk, cooking a meal together, or just snuggling on the couch, this can help you maintain a strong connection as a couple during this time of change.
3. Treat yourself: Whether getting a prenatal massage, a relaxing bath, or indulging in your favorite snack, make time for things that bring you joy and comfort.
4. Spend time in nature: Spending time outdoors and connecting with nature can be calming and help reduce stress.
5. Express yourself creatively: Engage in a creative activity you enjoy, such as painting, writing, or crafting. This can help you tap into your inner creativity and provide a sense of accomplishment.

Remember, self-care during pregnancy is about taking care of your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different self-care practices to find what works best for you.

FAQs at 28 Weeks pregnant

Why is the 28th week of pregnancy crucial?

The 28th week of pregnancy is a crucial milestone because it marks the beginning of the third trimester, a period of rapid growth and development for your unborn baby. 

Your baby is approximately 14.8 inches long and weighs around 2.2 pounds at this stage. Their organs and body systems continue to mature, and their brain is developing rapidly.

Another crucial aspect of the 28th week is that it’s typically the time when glucose screening is done to test for gestational diabetes. This condition can develop during pregnancy and cause complications if left untreated for both the mother and baby.

What not to ignore in 3rd trimester?

As you progress into the third trimester of pregnancy, it’s important to stay vigilant and attentive to your body’s needs. 

Here are some things that you should not ignore during this stage of pregnancy:

1. Decreased fetal movement: If you notice a decrease in your baby’s movements, it’s essential to contact your healthcare provider immediately. This can signify fetal distress, and prompt medical attention may be needed.
2. Vaginal bleeding: Any vaginal bleeding during pregnancy should be reported to your healthcare provider immediately. It can signify a serious condition, such as placenta previa or placental abruption.
3. Persistent headaches: While headaches are common during pregnancy, persistent or severe headaches could be a sign of high blood pressure or preeclampsia, which require immediate medical attention.
4. Swelling: Swelling of the hands, feet, and face is common during pregnancy, but sudden or severe swelling can be a sign of preeclampsia and should be reported to your healthcare provider.
5. Contractions: While Braxton Hicks contractions are expected during the third trimester, regular, frequent, or painful contractions can signify preterm labor and require medical attention.

You can help ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy for you and your unborn baby by staying attentive to these warning signs and seeking prompt medical attention when necessary. 

Remember to bring any new or old questions at each prenatal appointment and stay informed.

How do you know if you’re overdoing it while pregnant?

Knowing if you’re overdoing it while pregnant can be tricky, as everyone’s limits and abilities during pregnancy are different. 

However, some general signs may indicate you’re pushing yourself too hard and need a break. Here are some things to look out for:

1. Fatigue: Feeling more tired than usual, especially after an activity, can indicate overdoing it. Your body works hard to support your growing baby; listening to your body and resting when needed is important.
2. Shortness of breath: As your uterus grows and pushes against your diaphragm, you may experience shortness of breath during physical activity. However, if you’re finding it difficult to catch your breath even at rest, this could be a sign that you’re pushing yourself too hard.
3. Pain or discomfort: Any pain or discomfort during physical activity should be taken seriously. This can indicate that you’re putting too much strain on your body and could lead to injury or complications.
4. Dizziness or lightheadedness: Feeling dizzy or lightheaded during physical activity can indicate overexerting yourself. It’s essential to take a break and rest until the feeling passes.
5. Contractions: While Braxton Hicks contractions are common during pregnancy, regular or painful contractions during physical activity can indicate that you’re overdoing it and need a break.

If you’re unsure whether you’re overdoing it, it’s always best to err on caution and take breaks when needed. 

Remember, growing a baby is hard work; taking care of yourself and listening to your body’s needs during this time is important.

What week does the baby drop in the pelvis?

Your baby can drop into the pelvis at different times for each woman and each pregnancy, but it typically occurs in the last few weeks leading up to labor. 

For first-time mothers, this usually happens between 36 and 40 weeks of pregnancy, while subsequent pregnancies may experience this earlier, even a few weeks before labor begins.

When your baby drops, it’s also known as “lightening” or “engagement,” and it’s a sign that your body is getting ready for labor. This occurs when your baby’s head moves down into the pelvis, putting pressure on your bladder and lower pelvis. 

You may notice that your belly has shifted downwards, making breathing easier but causing more pressure on your hips and pelvis.

Conclusion

As your pregnancy progresses into the third trimester, it’s normal to feel excitement, anticipation, and maybe a little nervousness. It will be soon that you’re thinking about the color of your baby’s nursery!

Take care of yourself over the next few weeks, listen to your body, and don’t hesitate to ask for help. 

This is a time of incredible growth and development for you and your baby, and every day brings you one step closer to meeting your little one.