Third trimester

Pregnancy Week 28

A practical week 28 guide covering fetal development, symptoms, nutrition, prenatal tests, baby size comparison, and warning signs to discuss with your care team.

Week 28 ยท acorn squash

Fetal development

The third trimester begins, with steady growth and organ maturation.

Baby size comparison

Around week 28, baby is roughly comparable to a acorn squash. Estimated size: about 15.7 inches and 52.9 ounces, with natural variation.

Common symptoms

  • Energy, appetite, sleep, and digestion may change.
  • Some people notice cramps, bloating, skin changes, or back discomfort.
  • Symptoms vary widely, and absence of a symptom does not always mean a problem.

Tests and appointments

  • Weeks 24-28: Gestational diabetes screening, CBC, and Rh antibody follow-up if needed.
  • Weeks 27-36: Tdap vaccination is commonly recommended in this window.

Nutrition focus

  • Include protein, fiber-rich carbohydrates, colorful produce, and healthy fats.
  • Ask about iron, folic acid, iodine, vitamin D, choline, and omega-3 needs.
  • Follow local food-safety advice for fish, caffeine, unpasteurized foods, and supplements.

Warning signs

  • Call your care team for heavy bleeding, severe pain, fever, fainting, severe headache, vision changes, fluid leakage, or decreased fetal movement later in pregnancy.
  • Emergency symptoms should be handled urgently according to local medical guidance.

Medical disclaimer

This week-by-week pregnancy content is educational and does not replace care from a qualified healthcare professional.