Pregnancy Calendar at Week 28
Mommy, hello!
We're 28 weeks along now, and I finally fit into my favorite juicy grapefruit! 🍊 My belly weighs around 1100 grams, and the growth rate has stabilized at 38.2 centimeters. I feel like I’m getting a little faster, which means the fat underneath my skin is building up, and I’ve even started producing a protective lubricant to keep me comfy in this watery wonderland. My little bones are starting to fill with calcium, my kidneys are already filtering, and my liver is making bile — which means my blood is getting ready for the big world outside!
I love feeling your tiny touches and hearing your voice. When you talk, I feel a gentle push — that’s my way of saying: "Mom, I’m right here!" Thank you for being the best mom ever, making my little world so warm and cozy. 💖
Let’s hug each other,
your favorite citrus 🍊
What Happens to You During Pregnancy
During the 28th week of pregnancy, your body's hormonal changes continue, preparing you for labor. Your life feels even more vivid, allowing you to fully experience the wonder of pregnancy. It's natural to feel some anxiety or worry about the upcoming labor and maternal health.
Uterine Growth
The height of your belly, which is the distance from the top of your uterus to the pubic bone, measures about 28-30 cm at this stage. By this point, your uterus has grown about four times larger than its original size, which can cause periodic discomfort. Some women start to feel the first kicks of their baby during this time.
Frequency of Urination
As your uterus expands, it presses on your bladder, often causing the need to pee more frequently. At week 28, you may find yourself urinating 8-10 times a day. The doctor will evaluate this and examine for infections or other issues related to urination.
Breast and Nipple Changes
Hormonal shifts can lead to sore or sensitive nipples. Some women also notice mild breast pains in the evenings, which typically pass without the need for painkillers.
Weight Gain
By the 28th week, the woman should have gained no more than 9 kg. Weekly weight gain is about 400 grams. Monitoring weight helps assess the health and development of the baby, and an increase in weight of more than this may warrant further medical attention.
Medical Examination
From the 28th week of pregnancy, the woman visits the gynecologist every two months. These appointments are necessary to monitor results of the previous tests. The doctor assesses these and conducts external examinations.
The examinations during pregnancy include the following procedures:
- General urine analysis — to exclude inflammation of the kidneys and urinary tract;
- Blood sugar analysis — to check for signs of diabetes, which, if significant, can cause weight gain;
- Routine blood tests. If there are signs of anemia or infections, additional tests and treatments may be required.
- Measurement of abdominal circumference — to evaluate fetal growth;
- Measurement of maternal weight — to determine weight gain;
- Vaginal examination — to assess the state of the cervix and the risk of preterm labor;
- Internal gynecological examination.
The main reasons for examination include anemia, maternal habits, mild infections, or heart and liver conditions. In case of mild symptoms, the tests can be delayed. If a severe condition is suspected, the doctor must be contacted immediately.
Minor Vaginal Discharges and Flaking
Vaginal discharge during pregnancy is normal and indicates that the body is preparing for delivery. Some women may notice the first milky drops of colostrum during this period.
Hormones, Pre-eclampsia, Eclampsia
This rare complication occurs in 12-16% of pregnant women. It mainly involves internal organ inflammation, hormonal fluctuations in the fetus, and placental problems. It may also start due to increased blood pressure and stress. Symptoms include swelling of the face and legs. If these symptoms appear, it’s necessary to consult a healthcare provider promptly.
Fetal Heart Rate
Monitoring the fetal heartbeat helps assess its condition and the possible risk of hypoxia, which can lead to placental calcification. Early detection allows for timely medical intervention if needed.
Fetal Blood Sugar and Eclampsia
Fetal blood sugar levels — this condition, when the fetus begins to have insufficient glucose, can be detected early. Usually, this occurs before labor. In normal pregnancies, the placenta remains a barrier during the entire pregnancy, protecting the fetus from infections and maintaining internal stability. However, if the fetus starts to produce excess insulin due to this condition, it can cause low blood sugar. In severe cases, symptoms of oxygen deficiency of the fetus may develop: initially, mild signs, but later, more serious issues.
Placental Insufficiency
Early placental insufficiency is characterized by the placenta ceasing to perform its functions properly due to insufficient blood flow and hormonal imbalance, which can influence development.
Placenta Accreta, Eccrampia, Eclampsia
This rare condition occurs in 12-16% of pregnant women. It mainly involves internal organ inflammation, hormonal fluctuations, and placental problems. Monitoring blood pressure in both arms helps detect hypertension and placental suffusion. Hearing a calm fetal heart rate improves the mood and provides reassurance after delivery. Avoiding smoking and stress is recommended.
What Not to Do During Pregnancy
- Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption — this negatively affects fetal development, especially the brain;
- Do not consume greasy, spicy, or fast food, and do not indulge in sweets and baking — excessive weight gain can lead to gestational diabetes and continued blood pressure rise;
- Do not take medications without doctor’s advice — many drugs can have toxic effects on the fetus.
- Avoid excessive physical exertion or sports — increased intra-abdominal pressure can cause premature labor.
- Do not visit saunas or baths — overheating can lead to a cold, and overheating may trigger premature labor.
- Avoid long, stressful trips — they can cause hormonal fluctuations and health deterioration;
- Do not get upset or overwhelmed — emotional instability can cause the baby to react negatively.
- Avoid wearing tight clothing — abdominal compression can increase uterine tone and accelerate premature labor.
- Listening to calm music and reading classical literature helps improve mood and reduces stress.
- Reading pregnancy-specific literature can help find answers to important questions.
Proper Nutrition
During the 28th week of pregnancy, it's especially important to keep an eye on what you eat. Since actively growing babies take a significant amount of nutrients from the mom's body, it's essential to replenish your reserves with fresh fruits and vegetables, and also to include enough meat and eggs.
Recommended diet at 28 weeks of pregnancy:
- Eat fresh, cooked food to reduce the risk of food poisoning;
- Avoid greasy, canned, and spicy dishes to lessen the burden on your liver and stomach;
- Limit beans, peas, raw cabbage, and spicy foods to prevent gas and bloating;
It is very useful to include iodine-rich foods in your diet at 28 weeks, such as fish, seafood, and seaweed, which help prevent a deficiency of iodine.
Vitamin Needs During Pregnancy
At 28 weeks, the baby's energy consumption increases, primarily needing vitamins, microelements, and nutrients from the mother's body. That's why it’s important to incorporate these elements into your diet, ensuring good health and boosting immunity.
Vitamin A (Retinol)
The recommended daily intake is about 2500 IU. Vitamin A plays a crucial role in forming retinal cells and colobrachion, helping to prevent congenital blindness. It also supports skin and nail health, reduces the risk of acne, and helps with the elasticity of tissues including cartilage and bones. Main sources include liver, fish, eggs, and dairy products.
Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)
The recommended daily amount is about 2 mg. Vitamin B1 supports the nervous system, is involved in the formation of hormones and enzymes, and helps improve the functioning of the heart and blood vessels. Deficiency can lead to weakness, fatigue, and irritability in future mothers. Primary sources are liver, fish, cereal, and bread.
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)
The recommended daily dose is around 4 mg. This vitamin helps prevent anemia and enhances blood formation in the fetus, and supports the development of the nervous system in the cerebellum. Deficit can cause weakness and pallor of the skin. Main sources are milk, eggs, meat, and vegetables.
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)
The recommended daily amount is about 3 mg. Pyridoxine reduces the risk of anemia and regulates the tension of bones and reduces the risk of osteoporosis. It can be limited by muscle pains and bone pains. Main sources include fish, liver, and bile.
Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin)
The recommended daily dose is about 4 mcg. This vitamin helps prevent anemia and supports the formation of blood vessels, reducing the risk of fetal brain and spinal cord defects. Main sources are liver and seafood.
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
The recommended daily dose is about 75 mg. Vitamin C boosts the immune system and protects against colds. It helps prevent blood vessel fragility and reduces redness and swelling of the gums. Main sources are citrus fruits, berries, sea buckthorn, and lemons.
Vitamin D (Calciferol)
The recommended daily dose is about 400 IU. Vitamin D supports calcium and phosphorus absorption, aiding in building bone tissue. Deficiency can cause rickets and bone pains. Main sources are dairy, cereals, fish, and eggs.
Iodine
The recommended daily dose is about 1500 mcg. Iodine is vital for regulating water balance in the body and functions of the heart. Deficiency can lead to absorption issues and lower intelligence. Iodine sources include sea fish.
Potassium
The recommended daily intake is about 1000 mg. Potassium is a main component of bone tissue, ensuring the firmness of bones and reducing the risk of fractures. Deficiency may lead to weakness and hair loss. Main sources are milk, nuts, and fruits.
Important! The selection of a multivitamin complex should be based only on your gynecologist or therapist's recommendations.
Helpful Tips
During the 28th week of pregnancy, it's especially important to reduce the stress on your back. Taking a break and resting for at least 1.5 hours during the day is recommended. Gentle massage using mental or peppermint oil can help relax those tense muscles.
At this stage of pregnancy, women might experience some discomfort due to changes in their bodies. To help improve your mood and boost your confidence, consider making a few small pampering treats for yourself—whether that's adding some flowers or preparing a tasty appetizer for your partner.
Exercises for Future Moms
In the 28th week of pregnancy, fitness helps to unload the lumbar spine, strengthen the abdominal muscles, and tighten the pelvic floor and groin muscles. Exercises on the abdominal press should be performed carefully to avoid increasing intra-abdominal pressure. Recommended exercises:
- "Bunny" — a position on all fours, crawling in a cat-like manner;
- Bending and extending the bent arms at the elbows;
- Squats with bent knees one after another;
- Deep sitting positions.
Training should last about half an hour and be conducted daily. To strengthen muscles and improve blood circulation, aqua aerobics is beneficial. Swimming from the 28th week of pregnancy is better to cancel, as it requires high abdominal pressure.
Troubles During Pregnancy
Cold
A cold can sometimes pop up in about a third of pregnant women, especially if they’re not good at protecting themselves from colds. Symptoms include a runny nose and general discomfort. In more serious cases, the temperature might rise, get a headache, and you might develop a cough. If your cold is mild, you can try some folk remedies like steaming with salty water, lemon tea, or herbal tea. But if your temperature or cough worsens, it's best to see a doctor.
Back Pain
Around the 28th week of pregnancy, back pain becomes quite common and is linked to increased load on the lower back. Usually, it feels dull or sharp and can get worse in the evening. If your back pain happens regularly or intensifies, it's important to check with your doctor. These symptoms may be signs of more serious issues like gestosis or preeclampsia.
Dizziness
At 28 weeks, dizziness during pregnancy isn’t unusual. If it occurs along with a racing or pounding heart, you should see a doctor. Such symptoms can sometimes indicate more complex conditions, like gestosis or preeclampsia.
Breast Soreness
Breast tenderness and discomfort related to milk production are common as your breasts prepare to feed your baby. To ease this discomfort, wearing a supportive bra is recommended.
Headaches
Headaches can happen for various reasons during pregnancy, including fatigue, stress, and hormonal changes. If your headache becomes frequent or severe, it’s important to consult your doctor to determine the cause and get appropriate treatment.
Breast Tenderness
Light soreness in the breasts during the 28th week of pregnancy is normal and related to the growth of milk ducts and preparing your breasts for feeding your baby. To help ease this discomfort, it’s advisable to wear a supportive bra.
