Pregnancy Week by Week Guide
Welcome to your pregnancy journey! At 28 weeks, you’re officially in your third trimester, and there’s a lot happening with your body and your growing baby. Here’s a detailed overview of what to expect this week.
Your Body at 28 Weeks Pregnant
Restless Nights Ahead
As you enter the seventh month of pregnancy, sleep may become a rare luxury. The discomfort of carrying your baby can make it hard to find a good sleeping position, whether you’re in bed, on the couch, or even sitting at work. If you wake up in the middle of the night, consider calming activities like sipping on caffeine-free tea or reading a book until you feel sleepy again.
Measuring Progress
During your next prenatal visit, your healthcare provider will measure the height of your uterus, which should be between 26 to 30 centimeters from your pubic bone. This measurement indicates that your baby is developing appropriately and is in the correct position. For those expecting multiples, this measurement is typically not taken due to differing growth patterns.
Monitor Movements
At this stage, it’s important to start counting your baby’s movements. Choose a specific time each day to track how long it takes to feel 10 movements. This should ideally take less than two hours. Keeping a log will help you recognize any changes in your baby’s activity. If you notice a significant decrease in movement, don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare provider.
Your Baby at 28 Weeks Pregnant
At this point, your baby is approximately the size of a bread basket, weighing around 2.2 pounds and measuring about 14.8 inches long. They are accumulating fat, which gives their skin a smoother appearance. Notably, your baby is beginning to practice breathing independently—a development that can sometimes be observed during an ultrasound.
Their eyes, previously sealed, can now open and close, and the irises are starting to show color. While you may be curious about the final eye color, it can change over the first year after birth. Interestingly, research indicates that fetuses at 28 weeks may experience REM sleep, suggesting that your baby could be dreaming even before birth!
Symptoms and Health at Week 28 Pregnant
Breathlessness
Shortness of breath is common at this stage as your growing baby takes up space around your lungs and diaphragm. If you feel winded, take a moment to rest and allow yourself to relax.
Early Milk Production
Your body is starting to prepare for breastfeeding, and you may notice the production of colostrum, a yellowish fluid that may leak from your breasts before your baby arrives.
Aches and Pains
As you navigate the third trimester, you may experience increased aches and discomfort. This is due to hormonal changes and the extra weight your body is carrying. To alleviate these symptoms, consider prenatal massages, yoga, gentle stretching, and aquatic exercises. A maternity support belt can also provide relief if you find yourself on your feet often.
Braxton Hicks Contractions
You may begin to feel Braxton Hicks contractions, which are practice contractions that prepare your body for labor. While these can become more frequent and intense as your due date approaches, they are typically not a cause for concern unless they become regular or painful.
Conclusion
As you progress into the final stages of your pregnancy, it’s crucial to listen to your body and monitor any changes. If you have questions or concerns, resources like Cleveland Clinic’s information on intrauterine insemination can be very helpful. Additionally, you might find valuable insights in our other blog post as you continue your journey. For those looking to enhance fertility, check out this fertility booster for men to support your family planning efforts.
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