Week 28

Welcome to Week 28—you’re now deep into the third trimester! Your baby is about the size of an red cabbage, measuring around 15 inches long and weighing close to 2.5 pounds. From this point on, baby will gain about half a pound each week—so get ready for a growth spurt!

What’s Happening in Your Body?

Baby’s eyes can now open and close, and they can even blink! They’re starting to develop more defined sleep-wake cycles, and you may notice patterns—like baby being active at certain times of the day (or night).

Their brain is developing rapidly, adding more layers and complexity. Baby can now dream during REM sleep, and they’re practicing sucking and swallowing in preparation for feeding.

For you, your uterus is now high up toward your ribcage, which can make breathing harder. And you’re likely feeling more tired, heavier, and ready to be done—but hang in there, you’re so close.

Common Symptoms This Week

• Stronger, more frequent baby movements—sometimes even visible from the outside

• Braxton Hicks contractions—still irregular and mild

• Shortness of breath as your uterus presses on your diaphragm

• Back pain, hip discomfort, or pelvic pressure

• Swelling in feet, ankles, and hands

• Leg cramps, restless legs, and trouble sleeping

• Leaky breasts (colostrum) as your body prepares for feeding

You might also notice more frequent bathroom trips—baby is putting pressure on your bladder now!

What You Can Do This Week

• Start kick counts—choose a time each day to note how long it takes to feel 10 movements

• Plan for your third-trimester checkups, which may be more frequent now

• Get your Tdap vaccine if recommended by your provider (to protect baby from whooping cough)

• Look into childbirth education classes, breastfeeding workshops, or hospital tours

• Practice good posture and use a belly support band if needed

• Rest whenever you can—your body is working overtime!

And if you haven’t already, start thinking about your postpartum plan—who will help you, what supplies you might need, and how you’ll care for yourself after birth.

Apps like Cubtale can also help you jot down thoughts, questions for your provider, or even track your baby’s daily movement patterns.

Real Talk

Week 28 is a turning point. You’re in the final trimester, baby feels so real, and the countdown to meeting them is officially on.

But it can also feel long—like you’re close, but not close enough. The aches, the fatigue, the sleepless nights can feel like a lot.

Be gentle with yourself. Rest when you need to. Lean on your support system. You’re in the home stretch, and you’re doing an amazing job.