Pregnancy: Week 28

You are now in the middle of the seventh month of pregnancy. The 28th week marks the beginning of the third trimester. There is not much time left until delivery, but preparation is still necessary. Occasional weakness may remind you that it is time to rest, although many women continue working during this period. Indeed, maternity leave is already approaching.

You are still living according to your usual daily routine, but this does not mean that you do not need help from others. At the 28th week of pregnancy, avoid any potentially dangerous activities: do not lift heavy objects, do not hang curtains or laundry, and avoid exhausting tasks.

28th week — fetal movements

The baby’s movements become much stronger. At the 28th week, the fetus is quite active. Mothers can clearly feel and even see their baby’s movements through the skin of the abdomen. Sometimes the belly shifts to the right, and then to the left. If you are 28 weeks pregnant, you will not be able to ignore fetal movements. This continues until about the 32nd week, after which the uterus becomes tighter for the baby and movements will not be felt as distinctly.

Thus, pregnancy at 28–29 weeks means that by this time you have gained about 9 kg. Even if you feel a bit clumsy, this additional weight still allows you to remain fairly mobile. You have likely already adapted to many uncomfortable sensations, and some of them may not bother you at all. For some women, heartburn starts from the middle of the second trimester, while others are spared heartburn, nausea, and back pain altogether.

28th week — fetal weight

At 28 weeks of pregnancy, the baby’s weight exceeds one kilogram, and the body length can reach up to 34 cm. The baby has grown significantly and changed noticeably — they have learned to squint and to distinguish sweet and sour tastes.

For now, the baby does not yet have a preference for specific flavors and often follows the mother’s taste habits. Therefore, if the mother enjoys spicy sauces and seasonings, the baby gradually becomes accustomed to them as well.

This is the right time to introduce healthy tastes to your baby.

Fetal condition at the 28th week

The fetus may weigh up to 1,300 grams and has become strong and energetic. You may even feel painful kicks at times. Interestingly, the baby may move less during the day and become very active at night. The reason is simple: the mother’s movements calm and gently rock the baby during the day, which is why the baby prefers to sleep at that time.

By this stage, many babies assume the correct head-down position. However, if your baby has not yet changed position, there is no need to worry — there is still time for the baby to turn.

Babies born at 28 weeks are considered viable. Although the likelihood is not very high, modern medicine is increasingly capable of caring for such premature infants.

Without fear and anxiety

At this time, many women become less afraid of premature birth and complications. A large part of the journey has already been completed, and the expectant mother feels psychologically prepared for a positive outcome. The approaching maternity leave also lifts the mood.

Scheduling a visit with a psychologist may be beneficial. They can help overcome fears and anxiety and perhaps help you see the beautiful aspects of your current condition.

Committed to healthy eating — stay on course

If your doctor notices swelling, they may recommend adjusting your fluid intake. How exactly to do this should be decided individually. At this stage, salt intake should be significantly reduced. Try to avoid marinades, canned foods, and spicy salads. If you committed to healthy eating from the very beginning of pregnancy, restrictions will not be frightening for you.

Steamed vegetables, fresh fruits, dairy products, beef, grains, fruit drinks, and plain water should form the basis of your diet at this time.

Rhesus conflict screening

If your blood type is Rh-negative, you may be scheduled for an antibody test to determine whether Rh incompatibility between mother and baby is developing.

Routine urine and blood tests are usually scheduled before your prenatal appointment. Ultrasound is performed only if there are specific medical indications.

Weight changes everything

As your weight changes, so does your posture and gait. Wear comfortable, well-fitting clothes and avoid tight garments that may cause discomfort for you and your baby.

Do not forget to apply anti-stretch-mark oils to prevent skin issues on the abdomen. Gentle and attentive body care is especially important at this stage.