29 Weeks Pregnant
third trimester · Month 7
11 Weeks to Go!
Baby is as long as a butternut squash
Key Takeaways
- Muscle tone developing; kicks stronger
- Brain controlling breathing and body temperature
- Head grows rapidly in preparation for birth
29 Weeks Pregnant
Baby’s Development
Your baby now measures about 38.6 centimeters — roughly the size of a butternut squash — and weighs about 1,150 grams, or 2.5 pounds [1]. Muscle tone is developing, so those kicks and punches are getting stronger and more coordinated. Your baby’s brain is now helping control breathing rhythm and body temperature, though both are still a work in progress. The head is growing rapidly, and the bones of the skull remain unfused to allow for compression during birth. Body fat continues to build (around 5 percent of body weight now), and the skin is pinker and less wrinkled. Movement is still active, though space is getting tighter. The eyes can focus and respond to light. With NICU care, survival rates are now around 90 to 95 percent [2].
Pregnancy Symptoms
You’re settling into the third trimester. The familiar symptoms continue — backache, worsening heartburn, constipation, leg cramps, swelling in your feet, ankles, and fingers, headaches, and Braxton Hicks that are more frequent and more noticeable. Your uterus now sits about 8 to 9 centimeters above your navel, and the kicks are strong — sometimes visible from the outside. Round ligament pain, sciatica, or pelvic pain may bother you. Heartburn, shortness of breath, and frequent bathroom trips are common, and restless legs, hemorrhoids, or carpal tunnel may join in. Your resting heart rate runs around 80 to 100 beats per minute [2].
Body Changes
Your uterus has risen about 8 to 9 centimeters above your navel. Most women have gained between 21 and 28 pounds by week 29, and your bump is large, with your center of gravity clearly shifted. You may notice stretch marks, the linea nigra, melasma, more visible veins, or varicose veins. Your breasts may be up about two cup sizes, and colostrum may leak. The “pregnancy mask” can appear on your face. Your heart rate stays a little elevated. If you notice sudden or severe swelling in your face or hands, call your OB [2].
Tips for Week 29
- Ease pelvic pressure — Kegels, side-sleeping, a support belt, pelvic tilts, and avoiding long stretches of standing can all help. Ask for a PT referral if it’s severe.
- Manage swelling — it’s counterintuitive, but more water means less retention. Compression socks (15 to 20 mmHg), elevating your legs, avoiding prolonged standing, and a low-sodium diet all help. If swelling turns sudden and severe in your face or hands, with a headache or vision changes, call your OB right away — these can be signs of preeclampsia.
- Look into perineal massage (optional) — it typically begins around week 34, but it’s a good time to research the technique now. About 5 minutes a day can reduce perineal tearing at birth.
- Plan the baby shower if you haven’t — it usually falls between 28 and 32 weeks. Sort out the registry, guest list, food, and gifts (games optional), and coordinate with friends or family.
Things To Do (Checklist)
- Address pelvic pressure (Kegels, support belt, side-sleeping)
- Manage swelling (water, compression, elevation)
- Research perineal massage
- Plan/host baby shower if not yet
- Continue kick counting (10 in 2 hrs daily)
- Cyst: any concerning changes; preeclampsia watch (BP/urine)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: I have sudden severe swelling in my face and hands. Should I worry? A: Yes — call your OB or go to labor and delivery. Signs of preeclampsia include sudden severe swelling, a headache, vision changes, blood pressure over 140/90, and protein in the urine. It can be serious [1].
Q: Can I still have sex? A: Yes, low-risk pregnancies can continue throughout. Some mild cramping afterward is normal from orgasm contractions. Stop if it’s painful, if there’s bleeding, or if your provider has restricted it [1].
Q: When should I stop running? A: ACOG says you can continue if your pregnancy is uncomplicated, but listen to your body. Many runners stop around 32 to 36 weeks and switch to walking, swimming, or the elliptical. Don’t chase personal records — just maintain [2].
For Dads
- Co-plan the baby shower — help with the guest list, registry review, food, and gifts. Help execute it, don’t just attend.
- Pre-register at the hospital — fill out the paperwork in advance, online or in person, to save time when labor begins. Have your OB, pediatrician, and insurance information ready.
- Take on the nursery setup — assemble the crib, dresser, chair, monitor, and changing table, and test everything. Aim to be done by week 34 to 36.
- Read The Expectant Father, Chapter 27 — it covers the third-trimester reality and your role.
- Pray for muscle and brain development — the kicks are stronger this week, and the brain is controlling more functions.
Sources
- ACOG — How Your Fetus Grows During Pregnancy
- Mayo Clinic — 29 Weeks Pregnant
- What to Expect When You’re Expecting — Heidi Murkoff (Chapters 16-17: Third Trimester)
Sources
- guideline ACOG — How Your Fetus Grows During Pregnancy
- medical Mayo Clinic — 29 Weeks Pregnant
- book What to Expect When You're Expecting — Heidi Murkoff
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Action Plan Items for Week 29
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