Week 28 of Pregnancy
You’ve officially entered the third trimester! At 28 weeks pregnant, your baby is continuing to grow rapidly, and you may be feeling more pronounced movements, including kicks and rolls. This week marks an important milestone in fetal development, especially for the brain, lungs, and vision. It’s also a great time to begin preparing for the final stretch of pregnancy, labor, and postpartum recovery.
Baby’s Size
Your baby is about the size of an eggplant.
Baby’s Development at 28 weeks
Eyes beginning to open and blink
Your baby’s eyelids, which were fused shut for months, can now open and close. Your little one may even respond to bright lights outside your belly.
Brain development accelerating
The brain is developing more folds and becoming more complex, increasing its ability to regulate body temperature and breathing after birth.
Lung development progressing
Surfactant, a substance that helps keep air sacs in the lungs open, is now being produced, this is vital for breathing after delivery.
More regular sleep cycles
Your baby is now developing more consistent sleep-wake cycles, and might even dream during REM sleep.
Pregnancy Symptoms during Week 28
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As your uterus expands upward, it can press against your diaphragm, making it harder to take deep breaths. This is normal, but try to rest with your feet up and adjust your posture for relief.
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The added weight of your growing belly can strain your lower back and pelvis. Prenatal yoga, gentle stretching, or maternity support belts may help alleviate this discomfort.
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Your uterus is placing more pressure on your bladder again, which means more frequent trips to the bathroom. Stay hydrated but consider limiting fluids before bed.
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These practice contractions may become more noticeable now. They are usually irregular and painless but can increase in intensity as you near full term.
Pregnancy checklist at 28 weeks pregnant
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Begin preparing for your third trimester by reviewing your birth plan, checking in with your care provider, and considering who will support you during labor and postpartum.
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Talk to your employer (if applicable) about your leave plan. Begin organizing paperwork and discussing any flexible work arrangements you may need.
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Around this time, your provider may recommend starting daily fetal movement counts. Noticing regular movement patterns helps monitor baby’s well-being.
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If you haven’t already, start gathering essential baby items like a car seat, diapers, newborn clothes, and swaddles. Set up the nursery space if you're planning one.
28 Weeks Pregnant Belly
At week 28, your bump is likely quite prominent and well-rounded, making it one of the most visible physical signs of your third trimester. Many pregnant individuals find that their belly button begins to pop out around this time due to the outward pressure of the expanding uterus. This change is completely normal and often temporary, with most belly buttons returning to their usual shape after birth.
As your skin stretches to accommodate your growing baby, you might feel tightness or itchiness across your abdomen, especially in the evenings or after showering. This is a common experience during the third trimester. To help soothe your skin and improve elasticity, it's a good idea to apply a rich, fragrance-free moisturizer or oil daily, focusing on areas like your belly, breasts, hips, and thighs.
Another common change during this stage is the appearance of linea nigra, a dark vertical line that runs from the pubic area up toward the belly button or higher. This pigmentation change is caused by pregnancy hormones and usually fades several months after delivery. You might also notice darkening of the areolas and other parts of your body, which are all normal skin changes during pregnancy.
Your belly is now a powerful visual reminder of your baby’s growth and your body’s incredible transformation. Embrace this stage and continue supporting your skin, posture, and comfort as you move through your third trimester.
Tips & Resources
Hydration & Nutrition: Stay well-hydrated and continue eating nutrient-rich meals, especially foods high in iron, calcium, and omega-3s to support fetal brain development.
Prenatal Visits: Your checkups may increase in frequency now—typically every 2 weeks. Jot down any new symptoms or questions to bring up with your provider.
Support System: Connect with your birth partner, support people, or doula to discuss expectations for labor and postpartum. Communication helps you prepare emotionally and mentally.
Free Resource Suggestion: Use ChildbirthU’s Preparing for Your New Arrival Guide free guide to help organize your to-dos for baby’s arrival and reduce mental overwhelm.p.