Week 28 of Pregnancy

Pregnancy Week 28 marks the start of the third trimester, an exciting milestone as your baby continues rapid brain and lung development. Healthcare providers calculate pregnancy from the first day of your last menstrual period, and by week 28 your baby is often compared to the size of an eggplant or a large sweet potato.

Understanding week 28 of pregnancy can help you know what is happening in your body as your prenatal visits often become more frequent during this stage.

What Happens During Week 28 of Pregnancy?

During week 28, your baby's eyes can now open and close, and periods of rapid eye movement suggest early dreaming may begin. Your baby's lungs continue maturing, though they are not yet fully developed.

As your baby continues gaining weight steadily, movements often feel stronger and more frequent this week.

What Are the Symptoms of Pregnancy in Week 28?

Pregnancy symptoms in week 28 often reflect the transition into the third trimester and continued physical changes.

• Increasing Fatigue

Many people notice tiredness returning as the third trimester begins and the body works harder to support pregnancy.

• Shortness of Breath

As the uterus continues rising, shortness of breath can become more noticeable.

• Frequent Urination

As the uterus grows and puts pressure on the bladder, frequent urination often returns.

• Braxton Hicks Contractions

Mild, irregular tightening of the uterus can become more noticeable during this stage.

• Backache

As your bump continues to grow, mild back discomfort can persist.

Baby Development in Week 28

• Eyes Can Open and Close

Your baby's eyes can now open and close, and periods of rapid eye movement may suggest early dreaming.

• Lungs Continue Maturing

Your baby's lungs continue developing, though they still require more time to fully mature.

• Brain Continues Rapid Growth

Your baby's brain continues growing quickly, developing more complex patterns of activity.

How Does Your Body Change During Week 28?

Week 28 is mainly characterised by the start of the third trimester and continued uterine growth.

• Uterus Continues Rising

Your uterus continues growing steadily as you begin the third trimester.

• Weight Gain Accelerates

Weight gain often continues at a steady pace as your baby grows more rapidly.

• Increasing Blood Volume

Your body continues producing more blood to support your baby's development.

Welcome to your third trimester! Explore early pregnancy ultrasound and prenatal packages at Max Lab.

What Should You Eat During Week 28 of Pregnancy?

A nutrient-dense diet remains important in week 28, especially as your baby's brain and lungs continue rapid development.

• Choose Iron-Rich Foods

Iron supports your rising blood volume and helps prevent fatigue. Good sources include lean meat, beans, chickpeas, lentils and spinach.

• Include Protein in Your Diet

Protein supports your baby's rapidly developing organs and tissues. Eggs, fish, chicken, paneer, tofu, beans and lentils are useful sources.

• Choose Omega-3 Rich Foods

Foods such as walnuts, flaxseeds and low-mercury fish can support your baby's developing brain.

• Eat Smaller, Frequent Meals

Smaller meals can help ease shortness of breath and pressure on the stomach.

• Choose Calcium-Rich Foods

Calcium continues to support your baby's developing bones. Milk, yoghurt and cheese are useful sources.

What Foods and Substances Should You Avoid?

As your baby's brain and lungs continue rapid development, avoiding certain substances and foods remains an important part of a healthy pregnancy.

• Alcohol and Tobacco

Avoid alcohol and smoking completely, as they can affect your baby's developing brain and organs.

• Excessive Caffeine

Keep caffeine intake within the limits recommended by your healthcare provider.

• Raw or Undercooked Foods

Choose properly cooked foods and follow good food-safety practices, avoiding raw or undercooked meat, eggs, unpasteurised dairy and high-mercury fish.

• Highly Processed Foods

Limit foods high in added sugars, excess salt and unhealthy fats, and focus instead on a varied, nutrient-rich diet.

Exercise During Week 28 of Pregnancy

Gentle movement can help ease shortness of breath and support circulation, though it is important to listen to your body and rest when needed.

Choose activities that are comfortable for your fitness level, and avoid suddenly starting strenuous exercise without appropriate guidance.

• Walking and Gentle Exercise

Walking is a simple, low-impact way to stay active and can help support circulation and mood.

• Stretching and Yoga

Gentle stretching and suitable prenatal yoga practices can support flexibility, relaxation and help ease back discomfort.

How Can You Prepare for a Healthy Pregnancy?

Week 28 is a good time to prepare for more frequent prenatal visits and begin planning for birth.

• Begin More Frequent Prenatal Visits - Many providers move to appointments every two weeks starting in the third trimester.

• Continue Prenatal Vitamins - Keep taking a prenatal vitamin with folic acid as recommended by your doctor.

• Start Thinking About a Birth Plan - Consider discussing your preferences for labour and delivery with your healthcare provider.

• Get Adequate Rest - Continue prioritising sleep and rest as your body adjusts to a growing bump.

• Manage Stress - Practice relaxation techniques such as meditation, gentle yoga or deep breathing.

What Tests and Checkups Are Useful During Week 28?

Your healthcare provider may recommend a combination of tests around this stage to confirm your baby's development and monitor your health.

• Anti-D Injection (If Rh Negative)

If you are Rh negative, an injection is typically given around this time to help prevent complications.

• Routine Prenatal Check-Up

Regular check-ups continue to monitor your health and your baby's growth, often becoming more frequent.

• Blood Pressure and Urine Checks

Routine monitoring continues to track your overall health throughout the third trimester.

Week 28 Pregnancy Care Tips

A few simple habits can help you manage symptoms and support your baby's development this week:

• Continue taking prenatal vitamins with folic acid.

• Eat smaller, frequent meals to help ease shortness of breath.

• Stay well hydrated throughout the day.

• Get plenty of rest.

• Avoid alcohol, smoking and unapproved medications.

• Begin attending more frequent prenatal visits.

• Manage stress with relaxation techniques.

• Avoid self-medicating without consulting your doctor.

When Should You Consult a Doctor?

Some symptoms should not be dismissed without medical evaluation. Speak with a healthcare provider if you experience heavy vaginal bleeding, severe abdominal pain, high fever, severe dizziness or fainting, severe vomiting, or unusual vaginal discharge.

If you have an existing health condition or take regular medication, discussing your health with a healthcare provider early in pregnancy is recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pregnancy Week 28

• How big is my baby at week 28?

Your baby is typically about the size of an eggplant or large sweet potato at week 28, with eyes that can now open and close.

• Is week 28 the start of the third trimester?

Yes. Week 28 generally marks the beginning of the third trimester of pregnancy.

• Why is fatigue returning at week 28?

As the third trimester begins, the body works harder to support pregnancy, which often brings a return of tiredness.

• What should I eat during Week 28?

Focus on iron, protein, omega-3 and calcium-rich foods, along with smaller, frequent meals to ease shortness of breath.

• Can I exercise during Week 28?

If you are healthy and have no medical restrictions, gentle activities such as walking and prenatal yoga can support overall fitness during this stage.

• When should I see a doctor during Week 28?

Seek medical advice for heavy vaginal bleeding, severe abdominal pain, high fever, severe dizziness or fainting, severe vomiting, or other unusual or concerning symptoms.