Congratulations on reaching the 29th week of your pregnancy! As your due date draws near, your little bundle of joy is working hard at developing its various systems and organs to prepare for its entrance into the world. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect in terms of your baby’s development at this stage:
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Size and Appearance
At 29 weeks, your baby is about the size of a butternut squash, measuring around 15.2 inches in length and weighing in at approximately 2.5 pounds. Its skin is becoming less translucent and more opaque, and it’s covered in vernix caseosa, a white, waxy substance that protects its delicate skin from the amniotic fluid. Its hair is growing longer and thicker, and its fingernails and toenails have fully formed. Your baby’s eyes are now open and can blink, and its eyelashes have grown long enough to be visible on an ultrasound.
Brain and Nervous System
By this stage, your baby’s brain is rapidly developing, and its neurons are firing and connecting with each other at an incredible rate. It’s developing the ability to control its own body temperature, and its sleep-wake cycles are becoming more regular. It’s also becoming more responsive to external stimuli and starting to develop a sense of taste and smell.
Respiratory System
Your baby’s lungs are continuing to mature, and the air sacs are starting to produce surfactant, a substance that helps keep them from collapsing and sticking together. It’s also starting to practice breathing movements, inhaling and exhaling amniotic fluid to help it develop the muscles it will need to breathe air after birth.
Circulatory System
Your baby’s heart is pumping around 300 gallons of blood per day, and its circulatory system is fully functional. Its blood vessels are strengthening and becoming more complex, and its red and white blood cells are forming in its bone marrow.
Digestive System
Your baby’s digestive system is now capable of processing nutrients from the amniotic fluid and absorbing them into its body. Its intestines are starting to fill with meconium, a black, tarry substance that will eventually be expelled as its first bowel movement after birth.
Musculoskeletal System
Your baby’s bones are hardening and becoming more stable, and its muscles are getting stronger every day. It’s now capable of coordinated movements, and you’ll likely feel it kicking and moving around more frequently as it explores its cramped quarters in the womb.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can my baby hear me at this stage?
A: Yes! Your baby’s hearing is fully developed, and it can hear your voice and the sounds of the world around it. Talking, singing, and reading to your baby can help strengthen the bond between the two of you and potentially even improve its language development after birth.
Q: What should I be eating at this stage to support my baby’s development?
A: A well-balanced diet rich in protein, calcium, iron, and healthy fats is essential for supporting your baby’s growth and development. Aim to eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, and low-fat dairy products.
Q: When should I start thinking about packing my hospital bag?
A: It’s never too early to start preparing for your baby’s arrival! Most experts recommend having your hospital bag packed and ready to go by around 36 weeks, just in case your little one decides to make an early appearance.
Q: Can I still exercise at this stage?
A: Yes, exercise is generally safe and even beneficial during pregnancy. However, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise routine and to avoid high-impact activities that could potentially put you or your baby at risk.
Q: What can I do to help relieve the discomfort of pregnancy at this stage?
A: As your baby grows and your body changes, you may experience a variety of discomforts, from back pain and heartburn to swollen feet and trouble sleeping. Taking regular breaks, practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation, and keeping yourself hydrated can all help manage these discomforts and keep you feeling comfortable and healthy throughout your pregnancy.