Third Trimester: 28 Weeks Pregnant

Congratulations, mums! You're officially 28 weeks pregnant now! This exciting period marks the beginning of the third trimester. At this stage, you’re likely feeling the physical and emotional effects of carrying your little one, and the anticipation of meeting them grows stronger with each passing day. In this guide, we’ll explore the fascinating developments in your baby’s growth, the changes in your body, and other key aspects of pregnancy, such as third-trimester tests and gestational diabetes. Your Baby at 28 Weeks of Pregnancy At 28 weeks pregnant, your baby is rapidly developing and preparing for life outside the womb. Your uterus has expanded significantly, sitting about 8 cm above your belly button or 28 cm from the pubic symphysis to the top of the uterus. Roughly the size of a large aubergine. Your baby’s features are becoming more defined now and they may even start looking like you and your spouse. Here's what's happening with your baby now at your 28th week of pregnancy: Eyebrows and eyelashes: These are now visible, and the hair on their head is growing longer. Baby fat: Additionally, their once-thin body is becoming plumper and rounder as fat accumulates under their skin. Brain and Head Growth: Your baby’s head is still large in proportion to their body, reflecting the rapid development of their brain. By birth, the human brain accounts for around 12% of total body weight, underscoring its importance in early growth. Placenta: The placental blood flow has increased significantly to meet the demands of your baby’s growth. The placenta itself continues to grow and function as a vital lifeline, providing oxygen and nutrients while removing waste. As your baby grows, they are becoming more active. So, don’t be surprised if you feel more pronounced movements or notice patterns in their activity. This is a sign that your little one is thriving! Your Body at 28 Weeks of Pregnancy As your baby grows, so does your body, and you may encounter a variety of new symptoms and challenges. At 28 weeks pregnant, you're really beginning to feel the effects of carrying a lot of weight in your belly: backache, shortness of breath, pelvic pain, and many others. Because of your blood volume and hormones relaxing your muscles and blood vessels, you may feel lightheaded if you stand up or move too fast. Here's what's going on with your body now that you're in the beginning of your third trimester: Dysgeusia: Some women experience dysgeusia, a bad or altered taste in the mouth, often metallic or bitter. While the exact cause is unknown, it’s likely due to hormonal changes. You can manage this by adding a touch of salt to overly sweet foods or consuming some sour or citrusy tastes. Indigestion and heartburn: Indigestion may worsen during this trimester, especially at night, as your growing uterus puts pressure on your stomach. Avoid spicy, fatty, or acidic foods, eat smaller, more frequent meals and elevate your upper body slightly when sleeping. Constipation: The pressure of your uterus on your intestines, combined with hormonal changes, can lead to worsened constipation. Stay hydrated, include fibre-rich foods in your diet, and stay active to promote healthy digestion. You may also experience recurring symptoms from earlier weeks. Do alert your doctor if these symptoms become too severe. These physical symptoms, though uncomfortable, are all part of your body’s incredible effort to nurture and support your baby. Third-Trimester Tests As you enter the third trimester, your healthcare provider may recommend several tests to monitor your health and your baby’s wellbeing. These tests can vary depending on your unique circumstances but may include: Group B Streptococcus (GBS) Test: A swab test to check for GBS bacteria, which could affect your baby during delivery. Kick Counts: Tracking your baby’s movements to ensure they’re active and healthy. Non-Stress Tests (NST): Monitoring your baby’s heart rate in response to movement. Biophysical Profile: A detailed ultrasound to evaluate your baby’s health. Your healthcare provider will guide you through these assessments, ensuring you’re well-prepared for labour and delivery. Your Baby's Position At 28 weeks of pregnancy, your baby has grown significantly, making it possible for your healthcare provider to determine their position in your womb. This is very important for a successful delivery later on when your special day comes. Your baby can be in various positions at 28 weeks. Either vertical (longitudinal lie), diagonal (oblique lie), or horizontal (transverse lie). If your baby is in the longitudinal position, your doctor or midwife will also assess the presentation—the part of the baby closest to the pelvis. A cephalic presentation means the baby’s head is down, while a breech presentation indicates that the baby’s bottom or feet are closer to the pelvis. However, at this stage, it can be challenging to distinguish between a head and a bottom, so don’t be concerned if your doctor cannot confirm the presentation just yet. Babies often have ample time and space to change position before birth, and most will naturally shift into the optimal position for delivery. If you’re expecting twins, either baby may adopt any position or presentation, and their orientation can differ. Rest assured, your medical team will monitor these developments closely to ensure the best outcomes for you and your baby. Welcome to Your Third Trimester! The 28th week of pregnancy is an exciting milestone as you transition into the third trimester. Your baby’s growth and development are in full swing, and your body is working tirelessly to support them. While some symptoms like indigestion, dysgeusia, and constipation may be challenging, understanding these changes and staying proactive can make this stage more manageable. Remember to keep up with your prenatal appointments and third-trimester tests, as they’re crucial for monitoring your and your baby’s health. As you approach the final weeks of pregnancy, take time to rest, prepare for the arrival of your baby, and cherish this remarkable journey. You’re doing wonderfully, mummies! References Curtis, G. B., & Schuler, J. (2016). Your Pregnancy Week by Week (8th ed.). Hachette Books. Kaye, P. (2021). Your Pregnancy: Week by Week. SPCK Publishing. Riley, L. (2006). You and Your Pregnancy: Your Ultimate Week-by-Week Pregnancy Guide. Meredith Books. Shanahan, M. K. (2002). Your Over-35 Week-by-Week Pregnancy Guide. Da Capo Press Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner. For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!

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