BabyBerry28 Weeks Pregnant
Content last reviewed 2026-08-10.
Your baby this week
Welcome to the third trimester! Baby is about the size of a large eggplant, approximately 14.8 inches long and weighing around 2.2 pounds. A remarkable development this week — baby can now dream, as REM (rapid eye movement) sleep has been established. The eyes can blink, and baby can follow a light source moving across the belly. The brain is developing billions of neurons at an astounding rate, and the baby can now regulate their own body temperature to some degree. If born at 28 weeks, the survival rate with proper neonatal care is over 90%, though baby would still need significant support.
How you may feel
Your prenatal visits will now increase to every two weeks, and your doctor will begin monitoring you more closely for signs of preterm labor, preeclampsia, and gestational diabetes. You should start counting fetal movements daily — this kick counting helps you learn your baby's normal patterns and detect any changes early. Sciatic nerve pain may develop or worsen as the baby's weight and position can press on the nerve running from your lower back down your legs. You may feel more physically exhausted as your body works harder to support the baby, and your metabolic rate is significantly elevated. Sleep is becoming increasingly fragmented due to frequent urination, discomfort, and vivid dreams that are common in the third trimester.
Common symptoms
- Welcome to the third trimester — prenatal visits now increase to every two weeks.
- Braxton Hicks contractions become more frequent, especially after activity.
- Shortness of breath and rib pain as baby takes up more space.
- Trouble sleeping is nearly universal — finding a comfortable position is challenging.
This week's tips
Start daily kick counting: pick a time when baby is usually active, and count how long it takes to feel 10 distinct movements — it should typically be within 2 hours. If you notice a significant decrease in movement or it takes longer than 2 hours, drink something cold and sweet, lie on your side, and count again — if movement is still reduced, contact your healthcare provider right away. For sciatic pain, try prenatal stretches targeting the piriformis muscle, apply warm compresses to the lower back, and avoid sitting for long periods. Consider taking a breastfeeding class, as preparation and knowledge can make a significant difference in your nursing experience. If you haven't had the Tdap vaccine yet, schedule it with your provider.
Eating well
- Increase protein intake to 75–100 g per day to support baby's rapid growth.
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals — your stomach has less room now.
- Include iron-rich snacks like raisins, pistachios, and fortified cereals.
Nutrition focus
- Your doctor may test for anemia — boost iron if hemoglobin is low.
- Continue calcium (1,000 mg/day) and vitamin D (600 IU/day) for baby's bone density.
Everyday wellbeing
- If Rh-negative, you'll receive a RhoGAM injection around week 28.
- Begin timing Braxton Hicks — learn to distinguish them from real contractions.
- Consider a birth doula if you want continuous labor support.
For your partner
Learn about kick counting and make it a shared daily ritual — sit with her, place your hand on her belly, and help her track movements. This is a wonderful way to bond with baby before birth. Research your hospital's labor and delivery unit — take a tour if available, and know the fastest route from home (and from work) to the hospital. Start preparing practically: stock up on newborn essentials like diapers, wipes, onesies, and set up the baby's sleeping area. Have a conversation about your support plan for the first few weeks after birth, including who might help with meals, older children, or household tasks.
Signs to mention to your provider
- More than 6 contractions per hour that don't stop with rest may be preterm labor.
- Sudden gush of fluid from the vagina — your water may have broken prematurely.
- Severe upper abdominal pain (under the ribs on the right) can signal HELLP syndrome.
Disclaimer: BabyBerry is for general information and self-tracking. It is not a medical device and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.