Week 29 of Pregnancy
Learn about your baby's development and what to expect at 29 weeks pregnant.
Baby's Size This Week
Baby Development at Week 29
- ● Your baby now measures about 38.6 cm and weighs approximately 1153g.
- ● Fat accumulation under the skin is accelerating, helping your baby maintain body temperature after birth and giving the skin a smoother, less wrinkled appearance.
- ● The brain is developing rapidly, with increasing folds and surface area; brain-wave activity can now be detected and includes distinct sleep-state patterns.
- ● Your baby is actively practicing breathing movements with amniotic fluid — strengthening the diaphragm and respiratory muscles for life outside the womb.
- ● The eyes can open and close and are now responsive to both light and dark — your baby may respond to a flashlight shone at your abdomen.
- ● Bones are hardening (ossifying) steadily, now requiring a significant supply of calcium from your diet to support skeletal development.
Your Body at Week 29
- ● Shortness of breath is common as the baby moves higher and presses against the diaphragm.
- ● Swelling (edema) in feet, ankles, and hands is normal; elevate your legs when resting and reduce sodium intake.
- ● Sleep may become increasingly challenging — try a pregnancy pillow and sleep on your left side for better circulation.
- ● Heartburn and acid reflux often intensify in the third trimester as the uterus crowds the stomach — smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding spicy foods can help.
- ● Braxton Hicks contractions may be more frequent, especially in the evenings; they are typically relieved by rest, hydration, and changing position.
- ● Urinary frequency may increase again as the growing baby puts pressure on the bladder, even though you may have had some relief mid-pregnancy.
Week 29 Checklist
- ☐ Attend prenatal visits as scheduled — visits are now every 2 weeks in the third trimester.
- ☐ Continue daily kick counts — establish a routine time each day (often after a meal) and note any significant changes in movement patterns.
- ☐ Confirm you have received or scheduled your Tdap vaccine (recommended between weeks 27–36).
- ☐ Practice relaxation and breathing techniques for labor preparation — consider enrolling in a prenatal yoga or hypnobirthing class.
- ☐ Finalize your birth preferences and discuss them with your care team, including your preferences for pain management and interventions.
- ☐ Ensure your newborn essentials (infant car seat, bassinet, feeding supplies, and newborn clothing) are sourced and ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I expect at 29 weeks pregnant?
At 29 weeks pregnant, you are in the third trimester. Your baby is about the size of a Butternut squash (38.6 cm) and is accumulating fat, strengthening bones, and developing brain complexity. Common symptoms include shortness of breath, heartburn, swelling, Braxton Hicks contractions, and sleep difficulties. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
How big is my baby at 29 weeks?
At week 29, your baby is approximately 38.6 cm in length and weighs around 1153g — roughly the size of a Butternut squash. These measurements are averages based on WHO fetal growth charts; individual babies vary naturally in size.
Why does my baby need so much calcium at 29 weeks?
Your baby's bones are ossifying (hardening) rapidly from week 29 onward, requiring approximately 250–350 mg of calcium per day from your body. If your diet is calcium-deficient, the baby will draw calcium from your bones, increasing your risk of future osteoporosis. Good calcium sources include dairy products, fortified plant milks, almonds, broccoli, and canned salmon with bones. Your prenatal vitamin typically contains 150–200 mg.
Is it normal for the baby to move less at 29 weeks?
Movement patterns naturally evolve as the baby grows and has less room to maneuver, but a significant, sustained decrease in movement is not normal and should prompt a call to your provider. Continue daily kick counts. If you feel fewer than 10 movements in 2 hours during a dedicated counting session, contact your healthcare team immediately — it may warrant a non-stress test (NST).
Can heartburn at 29 weeks harm my baby?
Heartburn itself does not harm the baby — it is caused by stomach acid refluxing into the esophagus as the uterus pushes the stomach upward. Management strategies include eating smaller meals, avoiding lying down for 1–2 hours after eating, elevating the head of the bed, and avoiding acidic or spicy foods. If symptoms are severe, your provider may recommend calcium-based antacids or H2 blockers that are safe in pregnancy.
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.