Nerdy Weekly Baby Size: Week 29

This week for the Nerdy Weekly Baby series!

Congratulations, you’re 29 weeks pregnant! At this point in your pregnancy, your baby is about the length of the Elder Wand, measuring around 15.2 inches long and weighing approximately 2.6 pounds. But what else is going on in your body, and what can you expect to feel during this stage of pregnancy? Let’s dive into the details!

Table of Contents

Gestational Size at 29 Weeks:

Your baby’s brain is developing rapidly, and they are now capable of blinking, coughing, and even dreaming. Your baby’s lungs are also continuing to develop, and they are starting to practice breathing by inhaling and exhaling small amounts of amniotic fluid.

In addition to your baby’s growth and development, your uterus is also continuing to expand. It’s now about 3.5 inches above your belly button, which means you may be starting to experience some discomfort as your baby grows larger and puts more pressure on your organs.

What to Expect at 29 Weeks Pregnant:

As your baby grows, you may notice some changes in your body as well. Here are some things you might expect to feel at 29 weeks pregnant:

Shortness of Breath:

As your baby continues to grow and push up against your diaphragm, you may find yourself feeling short of breath or winded more easily. This is normal and can be alleviated by taking frequent breaks and practicing deep breathing exercises.

Swelling:

Many women experience swelling in their feet, ankles, and hands during pregnancy, and this can become more pronounced as you approach your due date. To help reduce swelling, try to stay off your feet as much as possible and elevate your feet when sitting or lying down.

Braxton Hicks Contractions:

You may start to experience Braxton Hicks contractions, which are practice contractions that help your body prepare for labor. These contractions may feel like mild cramps or tightening in your abdomen and usually go away on their own after a few minutes.

Fatigue:

Growing a baby is hard work, and it’s common to feel more tired than usual during pregnancy. Make sure you’re getting enough rest and listen to your body when it tells you to slow down or take a break.

Heartburn:

As your uterus continues to expand, it can put pressure on your stomach and cause acid to reflux into your esophagus, leading to heartburn. To help alleviate this, try eating smaller, more frequent meals and avoid lying down immediately after eating. From shortness of breath to Braxton Hicks contractions, there are several things you might expect to feel during this stage of pregnancy. Remember to take care of yourself and listen to your body’s needs as you prepare for the arrival of your little one!