Week 28 of 40
Size of A small watermelon
- The baby now weighs about 1 kg and measures approximately 39 cm
- The eyes can focus and the baby can follow light
- The brain is developing grooves and convolutions that increase its capacity
- The baby can turn and often begins to move into a head-down position in the coming weeks
Physical changes
- The third trimester begins now – the final stretch!
- Your belly is large and you can feel the baby's movements clearly
- The breasts are preparing for breastfeeding and may leak colostrum
Common symptoms
- Braxton Hicks contractions become more common
- Back pain and pelvic pain may increase
- Fatigue and shortness of breath during exertion
- Difficulty sleeping
Emotional changes
- The third trimester often brings stronger emotions and mood swings
- Anticipation mixes with nervousness about labor and parenthood
- It is completely normal to feel overwhelmed sometimes
- Welcome to the third trimester! Only 12 weeks to go
- Start packing your hospital bag so you are prepared
- Count fetal movements daily – the baby should move at least 10 times within a two-hour period
Appointments & check-ups
- Rh blood test and possible anti-D injection if you are Rh-negative
- Checkups with your midwife will become more frequent from now on
Important
- Continue to watch for signs of preeclampsia: headache, vision disturbances, sudden swelling in the face and hands, pain under the right rib
- Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience regular contractions, water breaking, or bleeding
Iron needs increase significantly in the third trimester. The body needs iron for the increased blood volume and the baby's growth. Eat iron-rich foods together with vitamin C for better absorption, and avoid coffee and tea around iron-rich meals.
Good to eat
- Iron-rich foods such as red meat, lentils, beans, and spinach
- Extra snacks during the day to keep your energy up
- Protein-rich foods for the baby's rapid growth
- Calcium-rich foods for bone development
Be aware of
- Your iron needs are at their highest now – ask for a blood test if one hasn't been done recently
- Eat often but in smaller portions if your stomach feels cramped
Avoid
- Alcohol
- Liver and liver products due to high levels of vitamin A
- Raw and undercooked meat
- Unpasteurized dairy products
Supplements
- Folic acid 400 micrograms daily
- Vitamin D 10 micrograms daily
- Iron supplements – especially important now in the third trimester when the need is greatest
Maintain your current activity level but do not increase the intensity. Focus on pelvic floor exercises, breathing exercises, and keeping your body mobile in preparation for labor.
Suggested activities
- Daily walks at a relaxed pace
- Swimming and water aerobics
- Prenatal yoga focusing on breathing and relaxation
- Pelvic floor exercises daily
Avoid
- Increasing exercise intensity compared to before
- Exercises that cause pain in the back or pelvis
- Prolonged lying on your back
Pelvic floor exercises
Pelvic floor training is now more important than ever. Strong pelvic floor muscles help you during labor and reduce the risk of tearing and incontinence. Squeeze 10 times, hold for 10 seconds, repeat three times daily.
Sources
The content on this website is based on information from 1177.se and the Swedish Food Agency. It does not replace professional medical advice. Always contact your midwife or doctor with questions about your pregnancy.