You've just rocketed into the 28th week of your miraculous pregnancy, and the excitement is palpable! Your tiny one is preparing for their grand entrance into the world, and you're about to witness an astounding period of rapid growth and development!
This week, we're all set to offer you a treasure trove of valuable advice to help you sail through this exhilarating time with ease. From taming the wild beast of common pregnancy symptoms to equipping you for the thrilling roller coaster of parenthood, we've got your back!
Now, we want you to kick back, let your worries float away, and prepare to soak up all there is to know about this extraordinary journey into the 28th week of pregnancy. Your adventure is reaching new heights of wonder and we're here to illuminate every step. Prepare for a dazzling new chapter in your life - this week promises to be nothing short of breathtaking!
How Large is My Baby at 28 Weeks?
At 28 weeks pregnant, your baby is around 2.5 pounds and almost 10 inches long. Your baby is already assuming the perfect position for delivery, which is head down towards the exit.
Your little bundle of joy is also working on some impressive new skills. Blinking, for example, is crucial to protect their delicate eyes from any foreign objects in the outside world. They're not stopping there; they're also perfecting their coughing, sucking, hiccuping, and, most importantly, breathing. It's truly amazing to see how much your baby is growing and developing right before your eyes!
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28 Weeks Pregnant Symptoms
While you're busy preparing for the arrival of your little one, it's common to experience some symptoms like bloating, gas, and stuffy nose. You may also feel faint or dizzy and notice bleeding gums due to hormonal changes.
Symphysis pubis disorder and the constant need to pee can also be common at this stage. You and your baby will continue to thrive with proper care and attention!
28 Weeks Pregnant To-Do List
Prenatal Appointments
Zooming towards your due date with the speed of a comet, it's never been more thrilling or important to make sure you're keeping up with your prenatal appointments! This is the final stretch, the last lap, the climactic end of the third trimester, and each appointment is a milestone closer to meeting your little one!
With the hustle and bustle of life swirling around you, it's crucial to lock in those appointments in advance. By doing so, you ensure you've carved out a time slot that meshes perfectly with your action-packed schedule. This isn't just an appointment; it's a rendezvous with destiny - a chance to check in on your little superstar growing inside of you!
Your doctor or midwife is your co-pilot, your teammate, your guide through this rollercoaster ride. They're there to keep a keen eye on both your health and the health of your budding starlet. Each appointment is a vital piece of the puzzle, providing crucial information about your baby's growth.
Placenta Encapsulation
This process involves consuming your own placenta after childbirth and has become increasingly popular. While limited scientific evidence supports its benefits, some women claim that it helps with postpartum recovery. If you're interested, find a reputable professional to encapsulate your placenta.
Monitor Movements
Your baby's movements are a great way to monitor their health and development. Starting in the third trimester, you should aim to feel at least ten movements (kicks, rolls, etc.) in two hours. Pick a time when your baby is usually active and count the movements. If you notice a decrease in movements, call your healthcare provider.
Related: Let's Get Physical!: 14 Infant Exercises You Can Do at Home
Anemia
It's time to power up and tackle one of the most widespread challenges faced during pregnancy - anemia. This stealthy troublemaker tends to sneak in especially during the later stages, but fear not, we've got the perfect strategy to combat it!
Your growing little one is counting on you for all their nutritional needs, and iron is high on that list. So, ready to supercharge your diet? Let's make iron our new best friend! But remember, it's always smart to have your doctor on your team - consult with them about starting an iron supplement. You're not alone in this, and together you can ensure your iron levels are just where they need to be!
Now, let's make things even more exciting! Did you know that teaming up iron with vitamin C makes the former's absorption a breeze? It's like the dynamic duo of nutrition! So, while you're boosting your iron levels, don't forget to invite Vitamin C to the party.
But where can we find this crucial iron, you ask? Picture a banquet spread out before you: succulent red meat, nourishing liver, hearty beans, vibrant spinach, and nutritious lentils. All these foods are not only packed with iron, but also full of flavor to delight your pregnancy cravings!
There's just one little twist in our adventure! Iron, while being our star player, can sometimes lead to constipation. So, it's time to put on our supermom capes and deal with this like the superheroes we are. Let's keep our bodies refreshed and hydrated, and make sure we're getting plenty of fiber in our diet.
Kegel Exercise
These simple exercises can work wonders for strengthening your pelvic floor muscles, which may help with bladder control and prevent urine leakage after childbirth. Talk to your healthcare provider about how Kegel exercises can benefit you.
Sleep Position
As your pregnancy progresses, you may find it more challenging to get comfortable while sleeping. Consider investing in a pregnancy pillow to help support your body and keep you cozy throughout the night.
Related: Surviving the 8-Month Sleep Regression
Advice for Partner
Around week 28, your pregnant spouse has probably started a daily kick count, and you can join in on the fun! To increase the chances of feeling those kicks from the outside, try having your partner change positions, apply pressure to the uterus, talk to the baby or play some music, and detect movement after a meal, sweet beverage, or snack.
Don't worry if it doesn't happen right away - be patient and persistent. As the weeks go by, the chances of feeling and even seeing the baby's movements increase. Get ready for a whole new level of excitement and bonding with your little one!
What to Ask Your Doctor?
This is your opportunity to tap into your inner strength, to stay informed, and to keep the dialogue flowing with your healthcare practitioner. Together, you can make empowering decisions for both you and your precious little one!
Feeling a bit jittery about gestational diabetes? Worry not! Your practitioner is your guide, ready to provide vital insights and tips to ensure the health of both you and your baby. Get ready to conquer any fears and face any challenges that come your way!
And what about those infamous stretch marks? Every expecting mother's pet peeve! But here's the good news: you can take action! Don't hesitate to consult your healthcare provider about preventative strategies and methods to reduce their appearance. Let's embrace this journey, marks and all!
If you're still in work mode during this exhilarating third trimester, you might be wondering when to hit the pause button and start your maternity leave. Or perhaps you're unsure if any adjustments are needed to keep you comfortable and safe. Your healthcare provider is there to help you navigate these decisions. Together, you can chart the best course for you and your baby's well being.
Remember, knowledge is power! Staying informed and being curious can make a world of difference in your pregnancy journey. It's your secret weapon for a healthy and joy-filled experience.
And let's not forget the Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) – those pesky tingling sensations and the urge to move your legs and joints. It's time to pull the curtain back on RLS! Discuss your symptoms and the best course of action with your doctor. You're not alone, and you're stronger than any challenge that comes your way!
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Bottom Line
Crank up the energy, moms-to-be, because we're surfing the thrilling waves of pregnancy! Yes, it's an exhilarating ride, but we know it can also wear you out. So, it's time to hit pause, kick back, and let this blog post be your guide, lighting up the path to what you can expect during this vibrant stage of your pregnancy.
Got questions? Concerns? Toss them out there! Your caregiver is your go-to confidante, always ready to address any doubts or worries you might have. This is your journey, and you're in control!
And speaking of journeys, let's gear up for the most thrilling one yet - preparing for the arrival of your sunshine, your bundle of joy! Picture yourself stepping into the nearest baby store, your eyes sparkling as you explore rows upon rows of adorable baby items. Or how about contemplating a baby subscription box? It's like receiving a little box of joy every month, brimming with delightful surprises for you and your baby!
So, let's raise a toast to this moment, this beautiful milestone in your life! Look forward to the big day with a radiant smile and a heart full of confidence. Remember, you're stronger than you think, and no matter what comes your way, you've got this! Let's soak in the joy, the anticipation, and the love that's all around you! Let the celebration begin!
