Pregnancy - week by week: Week 28-29

Pregnancy - week by week: Week 28-29

Week 28:

If you could see your baby now, you would notice that he/she has eyebrows and eyelashes.  In fact, the eyes are now full developed.  The baby's lungs are able to breathe in air.  However, the lungs still have a way to go in order to become fully functional.  Again, babies born this week have a very good chance of survival even though their lungs are not full developed. 

By now your baby is probably around two pounds and a couple ounces.  When measuring from the crown of the baby's head to the rump, he or she is probably somewhere around 10 inches in length.  At this point there is a chance that your baby will not be laying in a heads down position.  If they are in a breech position, the baby has plenty of time to become headfirst. 

Mom:  You may be noticing some Colostrum leaking from your breasts.  This is normal as your body begins to produce the Colostrum.  Awhile back your doctor should have ordered some lab work.  One of the tests was the RH Factor test.  If the test showed that you are RH negative, while your baby is RH positive, this can create problems.  Therefore, your doctor will schedule to receive the RH Immune globulin vaccine when you are 28 weeks pregnant.

At this point it is also a good time to start thinking about your labor plan.  Give some thought to who will be with you, what techniques you will use for relaxation, whether you plan to have a natural childbirth and so forth. 

Week 29:

Your baby is getting plumper!  More fat is being deposited throughout your little one's body.  The baby's brain can now control some basic functions for breathing.  And in fact, the brain is also able to regulate the baby's body temperature.  Your baby's senses are really coming into their own.  The baby is now more sensitive to light, taste, smell and sounds.  You may notice more distinct movements from your baby.  It is not uncommon to start being able to tell if the baby is kicking you with his/her knees or elbowing you instead.  In fact, you should feel the baby's movement stronger than ever.  If for any reason you feel that your baby is not moving or moving much less than before, take some time to do a fetal kick count.  Within an hour you should feel your baby kick at least 10 times.  If you notice the baby is not kicking that often, consult your OB practitioner. 

Make sure you are getting enough Iron in your diet.  If you have any concerns about this talk to your doctor about what foods you should be eating to increase your Iron intake.  Many women do become anemic during pregnancy.  Your doctor may prescribe you Iron medication if they feel you are too anemic.