Week 28 of Pregnancy
Learn about your baby's development and what to expect at 28 weeks pregnant.
Baby's Size This Week
Baby Development at Week 28
- ● Your baby now measures about 37.6 cm and weighs approximately 1005g — welcome to the third trimester.
- ● Rapid brain development continues with the cerebral cortex forming deep folds (gyri) that will house higher cognitive functions throughout life.
- ● Layers of fat are accumulating beneath the skin for temperature regulation and energy storage, causing the skin to become less translucent.
- ● The eyes can open and close, and your baby is practicing breathing movements using amniotic fluid to strengthen the diaphragm and lung tissue.
- ● Bone marrow is now fully responsible for red blood cell production, having taken over from the liver — a key step in hematopoietic maturity.
- ● Your baby can now blink in response to light shone on your abdomen, and the optic nerves are becoming increasingly functional.
Your Body at Week 28
- ● Shortness of breath is common as the baby moves higher and presses against the diaphragm — this will ease once the baby drops into the pelvis.
- ● Swelling (edema) in feet, ankles, and hands is normal; elevate your legs when resting and reduce sodium intake to help manage it.
- ● Sleep may become challenging — try a pregnancy pillow and sleep on your left side for better circulation to the placenta.
- ● Braxton Hicks contractions may become more frequent and noticeable in the third trimester, especially in the evenings or after activity.
- ● Heartburn may worsen as the uterus pushes the stomach upward; eating small frequent meals and avoiding trigger foods can help.
- ● Back pain and pelvic girdle pain often intensify in the third trimester as the hormone relaxin loosens ligaments — a maternity support belt may help.
Week 28 Checklist
- ☐ Begin counting fetal movements (kick counts) daily — 10 movements in 2 hours is the general guideline; fewer than that warrants a call to your provider.
- ☐ Get a Rh(D) immune globulin (RhoGAM) injection if you are Rh-negative to prevent Rh sensitization.
- ☐ Complete your 3-hour glucose tolerance test if the 1-hour screening was borderline, or complete the 1-hour test if not yet done.
- ☐ Schedule your Tdap vaccine (whooping cough booster) — ACOG recommends it between weeks 27 and 36 of each pregnancy.
- ☐ Book a hospital tour and pre-register with your birth facility to streamline admission when labor begins.
- ☐ Start drafting your birth plan: preferred pain management, labor positions, who will be present, and newborn care preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I expect at 28 weeks pregnant?
At 28 weeks pregnant, you have entered the third trimester. Your baby is about the size of an Eggplant (37.6 cm) and is developing brain complexity, fat deposits, and eye function. Common symptoms include shortness of breath, swelling, heartburn, back pain, and more frequent Braxton Hicks contractions. Prenatal visits now increase to every 2 weeks. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
How big is my baby at 28 weeks?
At week 28, your baby is approximately 37.6 cm in length and weighs around 1005g — roughly the size of an Eggplant. These measurements are averages based on WHO fetal growth charts; individual babies vary naturally in size.
Why is the Tdap vaccine recommended at 28 weeks?
The Tdap vaccine protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough). Pertussis is particularly dangerous for newborns, who cannot receive their own vaccine until 2 months old. Getting Tdap between weeks 27–36 allows your body to produce antibodies that are then transferred to the baby via the placenta, providing passive immunity in the first weeks of life.
What are kick counts and how do I do them?
Kick counts (fetal movement counting) are a way to monitor your baby's well-being at home. Sit or lie on your left side after a meal when the baby is typically most active. Count movements (kicks, rolls, swishes, jabs) until you reach 10. Most women reach 10 movements within an hour. If you do not feel 10 movements within 2 hours, contact your healthcare provider.
Is it normal to have trouble sleeping at 28 weeks?
Yes, sleep disturbances are very common in the third trimester. Contributing factors include physical discomfort, frequent urination, heartburn, leg cramps, and anxiety about birth. Sleeping on your left side with a full-length pregnancy pillow supporting your belly and knees is the most recommended position. Avoid screens before bed, and practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or prenatal yoga.
Track Your Exact Pregnancy Week
Use our free Pregnancy Week Tracker to find out exactly how far along you are based on your last menstrual period or due date.
Track My Pregnancy →Sources
- ACOG
- WHO Fetal Growth Charts
- Mayo Clinic
Medical disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for guidance specific to your pregnancy.