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What’s Happening with My Baby at 28 Weeks Pregnant?
Congratulations, you’re now 28 weeks pregnant! Your baby is now the size of an eggplant and weighs around 2.2 pounds. Your little one has been busy developing over the past few weeks and is now starting to look more like a newborn.
At this stage, your baby’s eyes are open when they’re awake and closed when they’re sleeping. They’re also starting to blink and will be able to follow light if it’s shined on your belly. Your baby’s lungs are still developing, but they’re now producing a substance called surfactant, which will help their lungs inflate when they take their first breath after birth. Your baby’s brain is also rapidly developing, and they’re starting to learn how to control their own body temperature.
Your baby is also becoming more active in the womb, and you might feel them moving around more frequently. Some babies even start to settle into a regular sleep-wake cycle at this stage, which can give you an idea of what to expect once they’re born.
What’s Happening with My Body at 28 Weeks Pregnant?
As your baby continues to grow, you might find that you’re more tired than usual. This is because your body is working hard to support your baby’s development, and you might need to rest more frequently. You might also experience some back pain or discomfort as your baby puts pressure on your spine.
At this stage, you might also notice that your skin is stretching, which can cause itching or irritation. You can try using a moisturizer to alleviate the discomfort. You might also experience some swelling in your hands or feet, which is normal at this stage of pregnancy.
What Should I Be Doing at 28 Weeks Pregnant?
Now is the time to start thinking about your birth plan. Talk to your healthcare provider about your options for labor and delivery, including pain management techniques and any potential complications. You might want to consider taking a childbirth education class, which can help you prepare for the birth of your baby.
You should also start thinking about what you’ll need for your baby once they’re born. Make a list of essentials, such as diapers, clothing, and a car seat. You might also want to start thinking about where your baby will sleep and what kind of feeding plan you’ll implement.
Finally, make sure you’re taking care of yourself by eating a healthy diet, getting plenty of rest, and staying active. You might want to consider prenatal yoga or gentle exercise to help alleviate some of the discomforts associated with pregnancy.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I still travel at 28 weeks pregnant?
If you’re planning to travel during your pregnancy, talk to your healthcare provider first. They can advise you on any precautions you should take and whether it’s safe for you to travel at this stage.
2. Can I continue to work at 28 weeks pregnant?
As long as you’re feeling well and your pregnancy is progressing normally, there’s no reason why you can’t continue to work at 28 weeks pregnant. However, you might need to make some accommodations, such as taking more frequent breaks or avoiding heavy lifting.
3. When should I start packing my hospital bag?
You should start thinking about your hospital bag around 28 weeks pregnant, but you don’t necessarily need to pack it right away. Aim to have it ready by 36 weeks, just in case your baby decides to make an early arrival.
4. What should I do if I’m experiencing back pain at 28 weeks pregnant?
If you’re experiencing back pain or discomfort, try using a heating pad or taking a warm bath to alleviate the pain. You might also want to consider prenatal massage or chiropractic care. Talk to your healthcare provider before trying any new treatments.
5. When will I start feeling Braxton Hicks contractions?
Some women start feeling Braxton Hicks contractions around 28 weeks pregnant, but others might not experience them until later in pregnancy. These are typically mild contractions that don’t cause any pain, and they’re a normal part of pregnancy. If you’re concerned about any contractions you’re experiencing, talk to your healthcare provider.