Week 28 of Pregnancy
Third trimester
For informational purposes only. This page is not medical advice. Every pregnancy is different — always consult your doctor, midwife, or healthcare provider for guidance specific to your situation. In an emergency, call your provider or 911 immediately.
Baby is
about the size of an eggplant
14.8 inches · 2.2 lbs
Baby this week
- •Eyes can now open and close, and can detect light and dark
- •Brain is developing rapidly with increased neural activity
- •Lungs are producing surfactant, a substance needed for breathing after birth
- •Startle reflex is developing—you may feel sudden movements in response to sounds
You this week
- •Braxton Hicks contractions becoming more noticeable (practice contractions)
- •Increased back pain and pelvic pressure as baby grows heavier
- •Swelling in feet, ankles, and hands from fluid retention
- •Shortness of breath as uterus pushes up on diaphragm
- •Sleep difficulties from discomfort and frequent bathroom trips
- •Increased appetite and possible heartburn
This week's tips
- •Schedule your glucose tolerance test (gestational diabetes screening) if you haven't already—typically done between weeks 24-28
- •Practice pelvic floor exercises daily to support bladder control and prepare for labor
- •Sleep on your left side to improve circulation and reduce swelling
- •Invest in maternity compression socks if swelling is bothersome
- •Stay hydrated and eat regular, smaller meals to manage heartburn
- •Start thinking about childbirth classes and labor preferences
Informational only — always check with your doctor or midwife for advice specific to you and your baby.
Looking ahead
You're entering the home stretch of your second trimester. Over the next few weeks, your baby will continue gaining weight rapidly, and you'll likely feel more pronounced movements. It's a good time to finalize birth plan preferences and prepare your home for baby's arrival.
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For informational purposes only. This page is not medical advice. Every pregnancy is different — always consult your doctor, midwife, or healthcare provider for guidance specific to your situation. In an emergency, call your provider or 911 immediately.
This content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Every pregnancy and baby is different. Always consult your doctor, midwife, or pediatrician for guidance specific to your situation.
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