Third trimester

This week you enter the third trimester, the last three months and one of the most challenging stages of pregnancy. Your baby continues to grow rapidly and fill the uterus. The uterus is almost level with your ribs. Varicose veins and swelling in your legs may increase. Existing haemorrhoids may worsen, and leg cramps may become frequent. At 28 weeks, your doctor will request a glucose challenge test to check for diabetes arising during pregnancy, known as gestational diabetes. If you have blood-group incompatibility, remind your doctor this week.

About 90% of babies born at 28 weeks survive, although they require respiratory support in intensive care. Your baby alternates between sleeping and waking, and may open and close its eyes. The eyebrows are fully developed. The body continues to store fat, which is important for maintaining body temperature after birth.

You can comfortably talk to your baby this week, because the baby now recognises your voice!

A baby born at 28 weeks