29 Weeks Pregnant

Baby’s Development

Fetus ~38.6 cm (butternut squash), weight ~1,150 g (2.5 lb) [1]. Muscle tone developing — kicks, punches stronger and more coordinated. Brain controlling breathing rhythm and body temperature (still imperfect). Head growing rapidly — bones of skull not yet fused (allow for birth compression). Body fat increasing (~5% of body). Skin: pinker, less wrinkled. Movement: active, but space getting tighter. Eyes: can focus, respond to light. Survival rate with NICU: 90-95% [2].

Pregnancy Symptoms

Third trimester. Symptoms: backache, heartburn (worsening), constipation, leg cramps, swelling (feet/ankles/fingers), headaches, Braxton Hicks (more frequent, more noticeable). Uterus ~8-9 cm above navel. Kicks strong, sometimes visible from outside. Round ligament pain, sciatica, pelvic pain. Heartburn, shortness of breath, frequent urination. Restless legs, hemorrhoids, carpal tunnel. Heart rate 80-100 bpm [2].

Body Changes

Uterus ~8-9 cm above navel. Weight gain: 21-28 lbs by week 29 typical. Bump large, center of gravity shifted. Stretch marks, linea nigra, melasma, visible veins, varicose veins. Breasts 2 cup sizes up, colostrum may leak. Possible “pregnancy mask” (melasma). Heart rate elevated. Possible swelling in face/hands (call OB if sudden/severe) [2].

Tips for Week 29

• Address pelvic pressure — Kegels, side-sleeping, support belt, pelvic tilts, avoid standing for long periods. PT referral if severe.
• Manage swelling — counterintuitive but: more water = less retention. Compression socks (15-20 mmHg), elevate legs, don’t stand for long, low-sodium diet. Sudden severe swelling (face, hands) + headache + vision changes → call OB (preeclampsia sign).
• Begin perineal massage (optional) — week 34+ typically, but research technique now. 5 min daily reduces perineal tearing at birth.
• Plan baby shower if not done — typically 28-32 weeks. Registry, guest list, food, games (or skip games), gifts. Coordinate with friends/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 OB or go to L&D. Preeclampsia signs: sudden severe swelling, headache, vision changes, BP > 140/90, protein in urine. Can be serious [1].

Q: Can I still have sex? A: Yes, low-risk pregnancies can throughout. Some report mild cramping after (orgasm contractions). Stop if painful, bleeding, or provider restricts [1].

Q: When should I stop running? A: ACOG: continue if uncomplicated, but listen to body. Many runners stop by 32-36 weeks. Modify to walk, swim, or elliptical. Don’t PR; maintain [2].

For Dads

• Baby shower co-planning — guest list, registry review, food, gifts. Help execute, don’t just attend.
• Pre-register at the hospital — fill out paperwork in advance (online or in-person). Saves time in active labor. Add OB, pediatrician, insurance info.
• Handle the “nursery setup” project — assemble crib, dresser, chair, monitor, changing table. Test everything. Aim for week 34-36 done.
• Read The Expectant Father Ch. 27 — third trimester reality, your role.
• Pray for muscle and brain development — kicks are stronger this week, brain controlling more functions.

Sources

1. ACOG — How Your Fetus Grows During Pregnancy
2. Mayo Clinic — 29 Weeks Pregnant
3. What to Expect When You’re Expecting — Heidi Murkoff (Chapters 16-17: Third Trimester)