Week 28 Pregnancy

Third Trimester

Last reviewed: July 2026

28 weeks pregnant at a glance

You are in the third trimester.
Your baby is roughly the size of an aubergine.
28-week midwife appointment.
Every pregnancy is different, so don't worry if your experience varies slightly.

You are 28 weeks pregnant and in your third trimester. Your baby is about the size of an aubergine. This week's key development: Hello, Third Trimester. NHS note: 28-week midwife appointment.

Third Trimester & Blood Tests

Welcome to the third trimester. At your 28-week appointment, your midwife will offer blood tests to check your iron levels and screen for antibodies. If you are rhesus negative, you'll be offered anti-D.

This page is for general pregnancy planning and date guidance only. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Pregnancy dates are estimates and can change after a scan or advice from your midwife, GP, or maternity team. Always speak to a qualified healthcare professional if you have symptoms, concerns, or questions about your pregnancy.

Week 27

Week 29

Baby's Development

Your baby is about the size of an aubergine.

Hello, Third Trimester — Your baby's eyes can now open and close, and they're beginning to develop a sleep-wake cycle distinct from yours. The brain is growing rapidly. You may feel short of breath as your uterus rises and presses against your diaphragm — completely normal.

Aubergine

Approx. 37.6cm

Your Symptoms

Braxton Hicks
Back pain
Frequent urination again

Every pregnancy is different. You may experience all, some, or none of these symptoms — and that's completely normal. If anything concerns you, speak to your midwife.

NHS Appointments

28-week midwife appointment. Anti-D injection offered if you are Rhesus negative.

Practical Advice for Week 28

Nutrition

Continue vitamin D daily.
Eat iron-rich foods and consider an iron supplement if your blood tests show low levels.
Calcium is vital — your baby's bones are hardening rapidly.
Drink plenty of water — dehydration worsens Braxton Hicks contractions.

Exercise

Third trimester exercise should feel comfortable — modify as needed.
Birth ball exercises help your baby into a good position and ease back pain.
Walking remains excellent for maintaining fitness and preparing for labour.
Avoid lying flat on your back — your baby's weight presses on a major blood vessel.

Wellbeing

Braxton Hicks are practice contractions — irregular and painless, they're completely normal.
Frequent urination returns as the baby presses on your bladder again.
Back pain may intensify — use a pillow between your knees when sleeping.
Get to know your baby's pattern of movements — report any changes to your midwife immediately.

Preparation

28-week midwife appointment — blood tests and anti-D injection if Rhesus negative.
If you haven't started your hospital bag, begin now with the essentials.
Confirm your birth partner and discuss your preferences together.
Research your MATB1 certificate — your midwife provides this after 20 weeks for your employer.

Tip of the Week

Get to know your baby's pattern of movements. If they change, contact your midwife immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions for Week 28

How many months is 28 weeks pregnant?

At 28 weeks pregnant, you are roughly 6 months pregnant. Remember that pregnancy is typically measured in weeks rather than months for clinical accuracy.

What size is the baby at 28 weeks?

At 28 weeks, your baby is roughly the size of an aubergine (about 37.6cm). Your baby's eyes can now open and close, and they're beginning to develop a sleep-wake cycle distinct from yours. The brain is growing rapidly. You may feel short of breath as your uterus rises and presses against your diaphragm

What are the common symptoms at 28 weeks pregnant?

Common symptoms at this stage include braxton hicks, back pain, frequent urination again. Remember that every pregnancy is unique, and it's normal to experience different symptoms.

Is 28 weeks in the third trimester?

Yes, 28 weeks falls within the third trimester.

Are there any NHS appointments at 28 weeks?

28-week midwife appointment. Anti-D injection offered if you are Rhesus negative.