Last updated: January 2026
Welcome to the third trimester - you're officially in the home stretch of pregnancy! At 28 weeks, your baby is about the size of an eggplant (38 cm, 1 kg), with lungs now mature enough to produce surfactant and all major organs fully developed. This week marks important milestones including Tdap vaccination, RhoGAM if needed, and starting kick counts to monitor baby's wellbeing.
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| Measurement | Details |
|---|---|
| **Length** | About 38 cm (15 inches) |
| **Weight** | Approximately 1 kg (2.25 pounds) |
| **Size comparison** | Like an eggplant (baingan) |
Lungs:
Eyes and Senses:
Brain:
Position:
| Symptom | Why It Happens | What Helps |
|---|---|---|
| Back pain & sciatica | Baby pressing on nerves | Massage, warm compress, prenatal yoga |
| Shortness of breath | Uterus crowding lungs | Rest, good posture, sleep propped up |
| Braxton Hicks | Practice contractions | Rest, change positions, stay hydrated |
| Leaky breasts | Colostrum production starting | Nursing pads |
| Trouble sleeping | Discomfort, hormones, anxiety | Side sleeping, pregnancy pillow |
| Braxton Hicks | Real Labor Contractions |
|---|---|
| Irregular | Regular pattern |
| Don't get stronger | Progressively stronger |
| Stop when you move | Continue regardless |
| Uncomfortable | Painful |
| Occasional | Getting closer together |
If contractions are regular, getting closer, and don't stop with position change - call your doctor immediately (could be preterm labor).
You may notice yellowish leakage from breasts - this is colostrum!
Why It Matters: Monitoring baby's movements helps ensure wellbeing
How to Count:
What's Normal:
Tdap Vaccine (Whooping Cough):
Flu Shot:
If You're Rh Negative:
If You're Rh Positive:
Baby absorbs most iron stores in third trimester!
Iron-Rich Indian Foods:
Enhance Iron Absorption:
Choose a Pediatrician:
Create Birth Plan (Optional):
Budget for Baby Costs:
Colostrum:
Prepare Mentally:
Call Doctor Immediately If:
Schedule Appointment For:
A: By now, many babies start settling head-down (cephalic position), but some are still breech or transverse. Don't worry - baby has time to turn! Most babies settle head-down by 36 weeks. Your doctor will check position at appointments.
A: Braxton Hicks are irregular, don't get stronger, and stop when you change position or rest. Real labor contractions are regular, progressively stronger, keep getting closer together, and continue regardless of movement. If unsure, always call your doctor.
A: During third trimester, weight gain of about 0.5 kg per week is typical. Total pregnancy weight gain depends on starting weight, but 10-12 kg total is common for normal BMI. Steady gain matters more than exact numbers - discuss with your doctor.
A: Yes, completely normal! Colostrum (pehla doodh) leaking means your body is preparing for breastfeeding. Not all women leak, and that's also normal. Use nursing pads for comfort. This doesn't affect your milk supply after birth.
A: After a meal, lie down or sit comfortably. Count all movements (kicks, rolls, flutters). Aim for 10 movements within 2 hours. If you feel fewer than 10 in 2 hours, eat something, try again. If still fewer, contact your doctor. Know YOUR baby's normal pattern.
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This article was reviewed by a healthcare provider. Week 28 begins your third trimester - the final stretch before meeting your baby!
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