Week 29 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.

    Week 28Week 30

    Baby is

    about the size of a butternut squash

    10.25 inches · 2.5 lbs

    Baby this week

    • •Brain is developing rapidly with increased neural connections
    • •Eyes can open and close, and respond to light changes
    • •Lungs are maturing but still need more development
    • •Baby is practicing breathing movements and can hiccup
    • •Bones are hardening though still mostly cartilage
    • •Baby's sleep-wake cycles are becoming more regular

    You this week

    • •Increased Braxton Hicks contractions (practice contractions)
    • •Back pain and pelvic pressure from weight distribution
    • •Shortness of breath as uterus presses on diaphragm
    • •Swelling in feet, ankles, and hands
    • •Frequent urination and possible incontinence when sneezing or laughing
    • •Difficulty sleeping despite increased fatigue
    • •Restless leg syndrome at night
    • •Occasional dizziness or lightheadedness

    This week's tips

    • •Start pelvic floor exercises (Kegels) to prepare for labor and reduce incontinence
    • •Wear compression socks or stockings to help with swelling
    • •Practice different labor positions—try a birthing ball, walking, or supported standing
    • •Consider taking a childbirth education class if you haven't already
    • •Sleep on your left side to improve blood flow to baby and kidneys
    • •Stay hydrated and eat frequent small meals to manage reflux and fatigue
    • •Talk with your partner about labor preferences and birth plan

    Informational only — always check with your doctor or midwife for advice specific to you and your baby.

    Looking ahead

    You're entering the third trimester's home stretch! Over the next weeks, baby's brain development will accelerate and baby will gain about half a pound per week. It's a good time to finalize birth plan decisions and discuss them with your healthcare provider.

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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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