Breathlessness, rib pain, and baby’s movements keeping you up at night.
You’re 29 weeks pregnant! You’re now well into the third trimester, and your baby is growing quickly, moving a lot, and getting ready for birth. Your belly is expanding, and new symptoms may appear as your body prepares for delivery.
Let’s explore your baby’s development, changes in your body, and how to manage symptoms at 29 weeks pregnant.
What’s Happening to Your Baby?
At 29 weeks, your baby is about the size of a butternut squash (26-28 cm or 10.5-11 inches long, head to toe) and weighs around 1,200-1,400 grams (2.6-3.1 lbs). Your little one is developing muscles, fine-tuning organs, and preparing for life outside the womb.
Major Developments This Week:
Baby’s Brain is Growing Rapidly! – More neurons and connections are forming, making baby more aware.
Lungs Are Developing More! – Baby continues practicing breathing movements in preparation for birth.
Baby’s Bones Are Hardening! – Calcium deposits are strengthening bones, but the skull remains soft.
Eyes Are More Active! – Baby’s eyes can now focus, and they may react to bright lights.
Fat Deposits Are Increasing! – Baby is gaining weight to regulate body temperature after birth.
Movements Are Stronger & More Defined! – You might feel more jabs, flips, and rolling movements.
Baby is Sleeping & Dreaming! – Baby is developing regular sleep cycles and may experience REM sleep (dreaming).
What’s Happening to Your Body?
At 29 weeks pregnant, you may experience stronger baby kicks, more weight gain, and new third-trimester symptoms.
Common Symptoms at 29 Weeks Pregnant:
Stronger Baby Kicks & Rolls! – Baby’s movements may feel sharper or more rhythmic.
Growing Baby Bump! – Your uterus is continuing to expand, putting pressure on other organs.
Back Pain & Pelvic Pressure – As baby gets heavier, back and pelvic pain may increase.
Braxton Hicks Contractions – Mild, irregular contractions help your body prepare for labor.
Shortness of Breath – Your uterus is pressing against your lungs, making deep breaths harder.
Swelling in Feet & Ankles (Edema) – Fluid retention may cause mild swelling.
Heartburn & Indigestion – Your growing belly may push stomach acid up, causing heartburn.
Leg Cramps & Restless Legs Syndrome – More pressure and mineral imbalances can lead to cramps, especially at night.
Leaky Breasts (Colostrum Production) – Your body may start producing colostrum, the first form of breast milk.
Fatigue & Insomnia – Finding a comfortable sleeping position may be harder.
How to Cope with Week 29 Pregnancy Symptoms
1. Tracking Baby’s Movements
Baby should move at least 10 times in 2 hours.
If movements slow down, drink cold water or gently poke your belly.
Contact your doctor if movements significantly decrease.
2. Easing Back Pain & Pelvic Pressure
Use a pregnancy pillow for support while sleeping.
Practice good posture and avoid standing for long periods.
Try prenatal yoga or stretching exercises.
3. Managing Braxton Hicks Contractions
Drink water – dehydration can trigger contractions.
Change positions – moving or resting can help them stop.
If contractions become painful or regular, contact your doctor.
4. Reducing Shortness of Breath
Sit up straight to give your lungs more space.
Take deep, slow breaths and pace yourself.
Sleep with extra pillows to elevate your upper body.
5. Relieving Swelling in Feet & Ankles
Elevate your feet whenever possible.
Wear comfortable, supportive shoes.
Drink plenty of water to reduce water retention.
6. Soothing Heartburn & Indigestion
Eat small, frequent meals instead of large ones.
Avoid spicy, greasy, and acidic foods.
Don’t lie down immediately after eating.
7. Preventing & Treating Leg Cramps
Stretch your legs before bed.
Eat foods rich in magnesium and calcium (bananas, nuts, dairy).
Massage your legs or apply heat if cramps occur.
8. Managing Fatigue & Insomnia
Nap during the day if needed.
Create a relaxing bedtime routine.
Use a pregnancy pillow to find a comfortable sleep position.
9. Preparing for Breastfeeding (If Planning to Nurse)
If you notice colostrum leaking, wear breast pads in your bra.
Read about breastfeeding techniques and benefits.
What Should You Be Doing in Week 29?
Since you’re well into the third trimester, here’s what to focus on this week:
1. Keep Attending Prenatal Appointments
Your doctor will check your uterus size, baby’s heartbeat, and overall health.
If you haven’t done your glucose screening test for gestational diabetes, make sure to schedule it.
2. Start Kick Counting Daily
Monitor baby’s movements at the same time each day.
If you don’t feel at least 10 movements in 2 hours, call your doctor.
3. Keep Taking Your Prenatal Vitamins
Ensure your vitamin contains 400-800 mcg folic acid for brain and spinal cord development.
A vitamin with DHA & Omega-3s supports baby’s brain growth.
4. Plan Your Birth Preferences
Think about pain relief options (epidural, natural, etc.).
Discuss labor and delivery preferences with your doctor.
Look into hospital or birthing center policies.
5. Sign Up for Childbirth & Parenting Classes
Learn about labor, newborn care, and breastfeeding.
Consider partner or support person classes.
6. Prepare for Maternity Leave
Confirm your maternity leave dates and work transition plan.
Discuss post-birth recovery and return-to-work plans.
7. Start Packing Your Hospital Bag
Include essentials like comfy clothes, toiletries, baby outfits, and documents.
Make a list of last-minute items to grab before heading to the hospital.
8. Finalize Your Baby Registry & Nursery Setup
Make sure you have newborn essentials like diapers, clothing, and a crib.
Install the car seat if you haven’t yet!
Final Thoughts
You’re 29 weeks pregnant and in the final stretch! Your baby is getting bigger, stronger, and more active as they prepare for birth. Symptoms like back pain, heartburn, and leg cramps may be increasing, but you’re doing an amazing job!
