Pregnancy Week 29
Your baby is continuing to grow stronger and gain weight this week. The brain is developing rapidly, the muscles are becoming stronger, and the lungs continue to mature. Your baby’s movements may feel more pronounced as your baby grows.
Your Baby This Week
Rapid Brain Development
At week 29, your baby’s brain continues growing rapidly and developing more complex connections between nerve cells.
The nervous system is becoming increasingly capable of coordinating movement and responding to different sensations.
Stronger Muscles & Movement
Your baby’s muscles continue becoming stronger, allowing more coordinated movements.
You may notice stronger kicks, stretches, rolls, and other movements as your baby grows.
Although there is gradually less room in the uterus, your baby should continue moving regularly.
Bone Development
Your baby’s bones continue developing and strengthening.
The bones are still relatively soft compared with those of a newborn, but they are becoming increasingly mineralized as pregnancy progresses.
Lung Development
The lungs continue maturing during the third trimester. The airways and tiny structures needed for breathing continue developing, while surfactant production increases.
Stronger & More Active
Your baby is about the size of a butternut squash. The brain, muscles, bones, and lungs continue developing as your baby gains more weight.
Your Body This Week
Your body continues adapting to the physical demands of the third trimester.
Stronger Movements
Your baby's movements may feel stronger and more noticeable. You may begin recognizing your baby's usual periods of activity and rest.
Growing Belly
Your uterus continues expanding, which can put additional pressure on your bladder, stomach, and other organs.
Shortness of Breath
As the uterus grows, it can put pressure on the diaphragm and make you feel short of breath, especially during physical activity.
Back & Leg Discomfort
The extra weight of pregnancy and changes in posture may contribute to lower-back discomfort, hip discomfort, or leg cramps.
Tips for week 29
- Continue taking your prenatal vitamin every day.
- Eat balanced meals with protein, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
- Include iron-rich foods regularly.
- Choose calcium rich foods to support your baby's developing bones.
- Include healthy sources of omega-3 fatty acids.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Eat smaller meals if heartburn or indigestion is bothering you.
- Continue pregnancy-safe physical activity if approved by your healthcare professional.
- Avoid standing or sitting in one position for long periods.
- Stretch gently if you experience leg cramps.
- Use pillows to support your abdomen, back, or legs while sleeping.
- Get enough rest.
- Avoid alcohol, smoking, and recreational drugs.
- Limit caffeine to 200 mg or less per day during pregnancy.
- Keep your prenatal appointments.
- Follow your healthcare professional's guidance regarding fetal movement and third-trimester monitoring.
Nutrition This Week
Your baby’s brain, muscles, bones, lungs, and growing body continue requiring a variety of nutrients.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Iron Rich Foods
Calcium Sources
Protein Rich Foods
Folate Rich Foods
Healthy Fats
Fruits & Vegetables
Whole Grains
Stay Hydrated
Nutrition Tip
Include an iron source at least once or twice throughout your day. Combining plant-based iron sources with vitamin-C-rich foods can help improve iron absorption.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big is my baby at Week 29?
Your baby is approximately the size of a butternut squash. Exact measurements vary depending on the timing of development.
What is developing during Week 29?
Your baby’s brain continues developing rapidly, while the muscles, bones, and lungs continue maturing. Your baby is also gaining more weight and body fat.
Why are my baby's movements stronger?
Your baby is growing larger and the muscles and nervous system are becoming more coordinated. This can make kicks and other movements easier to feel.
Is there less room for my baby to move?
As your baby grows, the available space inside the uterus gradually decreases. Your baby can still move and change position, although movements may feel different as pregnancy progresses.
Can my baby's position change at Week 29?
Yes. Your baby may still change position during the third trimester. Some babies turn head-down later in pregnancy.
Why am I feeling short of breath?
The growing uterus can put pressure on the diaphragm, while pregnancy itself increases your body’s demand for oxygen. This can contribute to breathlessness.
If shortness of breath is sudden, severe, or accompanied by chest pain, fainting, or other concerning symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.
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