Pregnancy Week 29: What to Expect
Baby's development, your body's changes, common symptoms, what to eat, and what to do this week.
Baby's development at week 29
Baby's brain develops billions of new neurons. Baby's bones are nearly fully formed (though the skull stays flexible). Baby's adrenal glands produce hormones. Baby can recognize music, languages, your voice. Baby's movements are strong and regular. Baby has a "nesting" instinct of sorts too — moving into different positions, sometimes head-down by now.
What's happening in your body
Your uterus is about 3.5 inches above the belly button. Pelvic pressure. Round ligament pain. Heartburn worsens — the uterus pushes the stomach. Sleep is hard; lying flat is uncomfortable, lying on your back is discouraged, lying on your sides is the only option. Possible Braxton Hicks regularly.
Common symptoms at week 29
Pelvic pressure. Round ligament pain. Heartburn (often worse). Possible Braxton Hicks. Sleep issues. Possible mild ankle swelling. Possible carpal tunnel. Possible sciatica. Strong fetal movements.
When to call your provider
Persistent contractions (every 5 minutes for an hour) — call provider, could be preterm labor. Severe abdominal pain, heavy bleeding, watery discharge or trickle, severe headache/vision changes, sudden severe swelling.
How to feel better this week
Plan the maternity-leave handoff at work. Train your backup. Document active projects. Continue Kegels. Side sleeping with pillows. Walk daily for circulation. Apply belly lotion. Manage heartburn with smaller meals, head elevation, pregnancy-safe antacids if needed.
Nutrition focus for week 29
Continue iron, calcium, protein, healthy fats, fiber, hydration. Smaller more frequent meals for heartburn and blood sugar. Limit acidic and spicy foods if reflux is bad.
For your partner
Help plan the work handoff. Support your partner in setting clear out-of-office boundaries.
This week's to-do
Plan maternity-leave handoff at work.
Is this normal?
"Nesting" — a sudden burst of cleaning and organizing energy — is real for many in the third trimester. If it hits, lean into it but do not overdo. Climbing on ladders or moving heavy furniture is not a good idea.
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