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 open and close; can sense light and dark
- •Brain is developing rapidly with increasing neural connections
- •Lungs are producing surfactant, a substance needed for breathing after birth
- •Can recognize and react to your voice and familiar sounds
You this week
- •Increased Braxton-Hicks contractions (practice contractions)
- •Swelling in feet, ankles, and hands
- •Lower back pain and pelvic pressure
- •Heartburn and indigestion
- •Frequent urination
- •Fatigue, though some experience an energy boost
- •Shortness of breath as baby takes up more space
This week's tips
- •Schedule your glucose screening test (gestational diabetes screening) if not already done
- •Start pelvic floor exercises (Kegels) to strengthen muscles for labor and postpartum recovery
- •Elevate your feet when resting to help reduce swelling
- •Wear supportive, comfortable shoes to ease back pain
- •Stay hydrated—swelling can actually improve with adequate water intake
- •Try prenatal massage or gentle stretching to ease discomfort
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 third trimester. Baby's survival rate outside the womb is now very high, and the focus shifts to continued development and your preparation for labor and delivery.
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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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