Week 28 of Pregnancy: Your Baby Is the Size of an Eggplant

TL;DR

• Your baby is about 37.6 cm long — roughly the size of an eggplant
• Big milestone this week: your baby's eyes can now open and close
• You might be noticing more Braxton Hicks contractions and back pain as your belly grows
• Start counting kicks — aim for ten movements within two hours

Your Baby This Week

Welcome to the third trimester. This is a major turning point in your pregnancy, and your baby is hitting some remarkable developmental milestones to match.

The biggest news this week: your baby's eyes can now open and close. Those tiny eyelids, which have been fused shut for months, are finally functional. Your baby can blink, and their eyes are even developing the ability to sense light. If you shine a flashlight on your belly, your baby might turn toward or away from the glow. They're also growing eyelashes, which is an impossibly sweet detail to picture.

Your baby's brain is developing rapidly too. The surface of the brain, which was relatively smooth, is now forming those characteristic grooves and folds that increase its surface area and processing power. Billions of neurons are firing, and your baby is developing more complex brain activity — including REM sleep, which means they may be dreaming.

At 37.6 cm and roughly 2.2 pounds, your baby is putting on weight steadily now. Layers of fat are filling out under their skin, which is starting to look less wrinkled and more like the baby you'll hold in about 12 weeks. Their lungs are also maturing, producing surfactant — a substance that will help them breathe on their own after birth.

Your Body This Week

Welcome to the third trimester, where "uncomfortable" becomes your baseline and "I need to sit down" becomes your catchphrase. Your uterus is now about 3 inches above your belly button, and you're likely feeling it.

Back pain is one of the most common complaints at this stage. Your center of gravity has shifted forward, and your body is compensating by adjusting your posture in ways that put strain on your lower back. Hormones are also loosening your joints and ligaments in preparation for birth, which doesn't help matters. A pregnancy support belt, warm baths, and gentle stretching can offer some relief.

You might also be experiencing Braxton Hicks contractions more regularly now — those practice contractions that feel like a tightening across your belly. They're usually irregular and painless, but they can catch you off guard. Staying hydrated helps reduce their frequency. If they become regular, painful, or are accompanied by any bleeding, call your provider.

Shortness of breath is another common companion at 28 weeks. Your growing uterus is pushing up against your diaphragm, leaving less room for your lungs to expand fully. This is normal and usually gets a little better once your baby drops lower in the coming weeks — but for now, take it slow on the stairs and don't push yourself.

Common Questions at Week 28

Is it normal to feel out of breath all the time?

Yes. Your uterus is crowding your lungs, and your body is also circulating about 50% more blood than usual, which means your heart and lungs are working harder. Sit up straight, sleep propped on pillows, and take breaks when you need them. If breathlessness is sudden or severe, or if it comes with chest pain, call your provider.

What should kick counts feel like?

Find a quiet time — many people choose after a meal when baby tends to be more active — and note how long it takes to feel ten distinct movements. Kicks, rolls, jabs, and flutters all count. Most babies will hit ten within 30 minutes to two hours. If you're not reaching ten, try having a cold drink or changing positions and counting again. If you're concerned about reduced movement, always call your provider.

When should I start my birth plan?

Now is a great time to begin thinking about it. You don't need to have everything figured out — a birth plan is a living document. Start by considering the big questions: Where do you want to deliver? Who do you want in the room? How do you feel about pain management? Your provider can help you think through your options at your next appointment.

Why is my belly sometimes hard and sometimes soft?

Those moments of hardness are likely Braxton Hicks contractions. Your uterus is practicing for labor. They're usually brief, irregular, and not painful — more like a tightening or squeezing sensation. If they become rhythmic, increase in intensity, or come with pain, contact your provider to rule out preterm labor.

This Week's Tip

Start counting kicks — aim for ten movements within two hours. This is one of the simplest and most important things you can do in the third trimester. Pick a time each day when your baby is usually active (after meals is often a good bet), get comfortable, and pay attention to those kicks, rolls, and wiggles. Getting to know your baby's normal patterns means you'll notice quickly if something changes. If anything feels off, don't hesitate to call your provider — they'd always rather hear from you than not.

Milestone: Eyes Open

This week marks a beautiful milestone — your baby's eyes can now open and close. After months of development behind closed lids, your baby is blinking, responding to light, and taking in their tiny world. While they can't see much yet (their vision will continue developing after birth), this is the beginning of one of the most powerful connections you'll share: the moment your baby looks at you for the first time. It's closer than you think.

Sources

• American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) — Third Trimester
• Mayo Clinic — Fetal Development: The Third Trimester

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