What to Expect at 28 Weeks Pregnant (Plus Helpful Tips)

How Your Body Is Changing at 28 Weeks

Reaching the 28‑week mark means you’re deep into the third trimester, and your body is sending clear signals that a big event is just around the corner. The uterus has now expanded to about the size of a large pumpkin, pressing gently against your diaphragm and making breathing feel a little shallower. Your abdomen may feel heavier, and the skin stretching over it can start to itch or develop stretch marks, especially if you’ve gained weight quickly. Hormonal shifts continue to relax ligaments, which can cause a wobblier gait and occasional backaches.

Baby’s Development Milestones

At 28 weeks the baby is roughly the size of a large eggplant, measuring about 14.8 inches from crown to heel and weighing around 2.2 pounds. The brain is undergoing a rapid growth spurt, laying down more folds that will later become the characteristic grooves of a mature mind. Lungs are forming the “alveoli” that will eventually fill with air, though they still need a few more weeks of surfactant production before they’re ready for independent breathing. The baby can now respond to external sounds—your voice, music, or the hum of a vacuum cleaner—by turning its head or increasing movement.

Common Discomforts and How to Ease Them

Many expectant mothers report a trio of complaints around this time: swelling, Braxton‑Hicks contractions, and frequent urination. To reduce swelling, elevate your feet whenever you sit and drink plenty of water; the extra fluid intake actually helps flush excess salt from your system. Braxton‑Hicks, those “practice” contractions, are usually painless but can be unsettling. Gentle stretching, a warm (not hot) shower, or a short walk often eases the sensations. As the uterus presses on the bladder, trips to the restroom become more frequent—keep a water bottle handy, but sip slowly to avoid overfilling.

Preparing for the Third Trimester

Now is the perfect moment to start fine‑tuning your birth plan. If you haven’t already, discuss pain‑management options with your midwife or obstetrician—whether you’re leaning toward an epidural, nitrous oxide, or natural techniques like breathing exercises and hydrotherapy. Consider a hospital tour so you know where the labor and delivery rooms are, where the nursery will be, and how long it takes to get from your car park to the birthing suite. Packing a “go‑bag” with essentials—comfortable clothes, toiletries, and a playlist of calming music—can shave minutes off the inevitable scramble.

Practical Tips for a Healthy 28th Week

• Stay active, but listen to your body. Light‑to‑moderate activities such as prenatal yoga, swimming, or brisk walking keep circulation moving and may lessen back pain.
• Prioritize nutrition. Aim for a balanced plate with lean protein, whole grains, dairy (or fortified alternatives), and a rainbow of vegetables. Iron‑rich foods like spinach and lentils help ward off anemia.
• Mind your posture. Use a small pillow behind your lower back when sitting, and try to keep shoulders relaxed to avoid neck tension.
• Get enough rest. A short nap or a night of 7–8 hours of sleep can improve mood and reduce swelling.
• Track fetal movements. Starting at this stage, you should feel the baby’s kicks several times a day. If you notice a sudden drop, give a gentle shake of your belly; if movement doesn’t return, call your provider.

When to Call Your Healthcare Provider

Most aches and occasional contractions are normal, but certain signs demand prompt attention. Contact your doctor if you experience persistent abdominal pain, a gush of fluid (possible water breaking), vaginal bleeding, severe headache, vision changes, or swelling that suddenly becomes pronounced in your face or hands. Fever over 100.4 °F (38 °C) could indicate infection, while a rapid heartbeat above 100 beats per minute may signal preeclampsia. Trust your instincts—if something feels off, a quick call can provide reassurance or early intervention.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still travel at 28 weeks? In most cases, short trips by car or plane are safe, but you should verify airline policies and bring your prenatal records. Long car rides are fine if you stop every hour to stretch.

How many weeks until my baby is considered full‑term? Full‑term starts at 37 weeks, so you have about nine weeks left. While many babies arrive earlier, reaching 39 weeks reduces the risk of respiratory issues.

Is it normal to feel my baby’s movements less often? A slight variation can happen, especially after a big meal. However, a consistent decline in activity should be evaluated promptly.

Should I start doing pelvic floor exercises now? Absolutely. Kegels can strengthen the muscles that support the uterus, bladder, and bowels, making labor and recovery smoother.