You Made It, Mama—We’re in the Home Stretch Now!
Okay, let’s take a moment together.
You are officially in the third trimester.
That’s right—Week 28 is here, and you’ve crossed into the final phase of pregnancy.
Can you believe it?
All the early nerves, first flutters, stretchy pants, late-night cravings, and sleepy days… it’s all brought you right here. And now, in just a few short weeks, you’ll be holding your baby in your arms.
This part of the journey is exciting, emotional, and yes—physically a little intense. Your body’s working hard, your baby’s growing fast, and your mind might be shifting into full-on nesting mode.
But don’t worry. You’ve got time, you’ve got tools, and you’ve got support. So let’s break it all down, gently and clearly—just like a friend walking alongside you.
1️⃣ Your Body: What to Expect in the Third Trimester
Your belly is likely front and center now (literally!), and things are starting to feel very real. You might be noticing new changes—or more of the same symptoms just… amplified.
Here’s what’s common:
🤰 Bigger Belly, Shifting Balance
As baby gains weight, your center of gravity continues to shift. You might feel clumsier, waddle a little more, or need extra support while walking.
💤 Fatigue Returns
Remember that second trimester energy boost? Yeah, it might be fading. Your body is burning more calories and working hard to support baby’s final growth.
😮💨 Shortness of Breath
As your uterus expands upward, it presses on your diaphragm. Deep breaths can feel harder—but it’s all normal.
💥 Braxton Hicks Contractions
You may start to feel occasional “practice” contractions. They’re usually irregular and painless—just your body warming up.
🦵 Swelling & Leg Discomfort
Your legs, feet, and hands may swell more often now. Rest, elevation, and hydration will be your best friends.
📌 Tip: Always check with your provider if swelling is sudden, one-sided, or comes with pain, headaches, or vision changes.
2️⃣ Baby’s Development at Week 28
Your little one is around 2.2 pounds and 15 inches long—roughly the size of an eggplant! But more than size, their systems are making major progress.
Here’s what’s happening in there:
- Baby’s brain is developing grooves, becoming more complex
- They can now blink, and their eyelashes are in place
- They’re starting to dream during REM sleep
- Lungs are maturing, prepping for that first breath
- Baby can sense light, hear your voice, and respond to touch
And yes—you’ll likely feel stronger kicks and rolls from now on. Their movement pattern becomes more noticeable, especially in the evenings when you finally sit down.
📌 You might start “kick counts” soon. Don’t worry—your provider will guide you when it’s time.
3️⃣ Your Prenatal Appointments: What’s Coming Up?
Things are picking up!
In the third trimester, you’ll typically start seeing your doctor or midwife every 2 weeks, then weekly as you approach your due date.
Expect:
- Belly measurements (fundal height)
- Blood pressure checks
- Listening to baby’s heartbeat
- Checking for signs of swelling or complications
- Discussing birth plan options, labor signs, and delivery preferences
You may also get:
- Tdap vaccine (for you and your partner)
- Rhogam shot (if you’re Rh-negative)
- Group B Strep test around Weeks 35–37
📌 Bring your questions to every appointment—it’s YOUR body, YOUR baby, and YOUR birth.
4️⃣ Preparing for Birth (Gently, One Step at a Time)
This is the perfect time to start thinking about labor and delivery, without pressure or panic.
🏥 Tour Your Birth Location
Whether it’s a hospital, birth center, or home setup—get familiar with where you’ll be. Some offer in-person or virtual tours.
📚 Take a Childbirth Class
Even if it’s your second or third baby, a refresher can ease your nerves. Many classes now offer online options.
✍️ Start Drafting a Birth Plan
Think of it as a preference sheet, not a script. Consider:
- Pain management (epidural, unmedicated, etc.)
- Who you want present
- Positions you’d like to try
- Preferences for baby care after birth
📌 Reminder: Flexibility is key. Plans are helpful—but your ability to adapt is powerful.
5️⃣ Take Care of YOU, Too
You’re doing so much for baby—but don’t forget to fill your own cup. Self-care now is preparation for postpartum, too.
Try:
- Napping when you can (even short ones!)
- Gentle movement like walking or prenatal yoga
- Eating nourishing foods that give you energy
- Journaling your thoughts and emotions
- Practicing mindfulness or meditation
- Creating a cozy night routine that helps you wind down
📌 You don’t have to be in “go mode” all the time. Slowing down is its own kind of strength.
6️⃣ What Other Mamas Say About Starting the Third Trimester
“Week 28 hit and suddenly everything felt real. I got excited and nervous at the same time. But once I made a little checklist and talked to my provider, I felt more in control.” – Alyssa
“I started doing kick counts every night and it became a sweet bonding time. It helped ease my anxiety and made me feel connected.” – Nia
“The best advice I got was to rest without guilt. I started protecting my energy like it was sacred—and it made a huge difference.” – Jenna
Final Thoughts: You Are Ready for This
The third trimester may feel like the biggest leap yet—but you’ve been building up to this moment for 27 weeks. And you? You are ready.
You’re strong.
You’re wise.
You’re more connected to your baby and your body than ever before.
So take a breath. Put your feet up.
And get ready for one of the most incredible seasons of your life.
You’re not just growing a baby—you’re preparing for one of the most powerful transformations there is. And I promise: you are doing it beautifully.
