Week 28: Welcome to the Third Trimester
Baby is about the size of Eggplant (377mm)
The third trimester begins. The fetus can regulate body temperature. Eyes can track light. If Rh-negative, Rhogam is administered.
Appointments increase to every two weeks. Kick counting becomes important. Braxton Hicks may be more frequent.
What is important now
Begin formal kick counting—aim to feel 10 movements in 2 hours during baby's active time.
Common symptoms
- decreased fetal movement — contact provider same day
- regular contractions before 37 weeks — contact provider immediately
Wellness this week.
Nutrition
Final growth phase and energy maintenance
- ~450 extra calories daily in T3
- Continue iron supplementation
- Smaller, more frequent meals
Exercise
Movement
Continue gentle movement
Sleep
Whatever you can get
Position: Left side with full pillow support system
· Accept fragmented sleep as normal
· Nap when possible
Mental wellness
Mindfulness
The third trimester is a marathon. Give yourself grace.
“Your body has sustained this pregnancy for two full trimesters.”
Your timeline.
Week 6
22 weeks ago- routine
Checkpoint 1 — Mutterpass may be issued upon heartbeat confirmation
Week 19
9 weeks ago- routineWeeks 19–22
Checkpoint 2 — Screening Ultrasound
Choice between a basic biometric scan or detailed organ scan. Measures head circumference, abdominal circumference, femur length, and checks placental position.
GoalAssess fetal anatomy and growth, check for structural abnormalities, and verify placental location.
Week 28
This week- routine
Checkpoint 1 — GDM screening
- routine
Checkpoint 2 — Rhogam if Rh-negative
Week 29
Next week- routineWeeks 29–32
Checkpoint 3 — Screening Ultrasound
Third and final routine ultrasound. Assesses fetal growth, position (cephalic/breech), amniotic fluid volume, and placental function.
GoalConfirm appropriate growth trajectory and baby's position for delivery planning.
Week 35
In 7 weeks- self pay igelWeeks 35–37
Checkpoint 1 — GBS Testing — Self-pay/IGeL
Rectovaginal swab to screen for Group B Streptococcus colonization. If positive, IV antibiotics are given during labor to prevent neonatal infection.
GoalIdentify GBS carriers to enable prophylactic treatment during delivery.
Safety: Decreased fetal movement requires prompt evaluation. Count kicks daily.
Your journey, your rhythm.
Track your pregnancy week by week with gentle, personalized guidance.