28th week of pregnancy: Welcome to the 3rd trimester – This is how your baby is developing!

28th week of pregnancy (28 weeks pregnant)

Welcome to the final trimester of your pregnancy! The 28th week marks the beginning of an emotionally and physically intense period. Your baby is now putting on more weight, practising its breathing, moving its arms and legs, and making its presence felt more and more in the womb.

For many pregnant women, this time is characterised by a mixture of anticipation, new physical symptoms, and important preparations. At the same time, you may also notice how important mental support from your partner or close loved ones is now – whether that's through conversations about the birth, initial baby essentials, or simply practical help in everyday life.

It is also the ideal time to think about topics such as maternity protection, parental leave, the division of work after the birth, and a birth plan.

In this briefing, you will learn all about your baby’s development, the changes in your body, common complaints – and receive valuable tips on how to enjoy the coming weeks feeling relaxed and well prepared. After all, your baby is about to take its place in the world.

Week 28 of pregnancy at a glance

🍼 Your baby:
Size: approx. 35–37 cm (crown to heel)
Weight: approx. 1,000–1,200 g
Size comparison: as big as an aubergine
Special features: opens its eyes for the first time, reacts to light & sounds
Development: Onset of REM sleep (dream phases), brain and lungs continue to mature
Position: still a lot of movement, mostly with the head upwards
Chance of survival in premature birth: about 90%
Your body:
Trimester: 3rd trimester (beginning)
Month: 7th month of pregnancy
Physical changes: growing belly, pressure on stomach & bladder
Common complaints: shortness of breath, back pain, heartburn, water retention
Emotional state: stronger bond with the baby, mental preparation for the birth

Development of the baby in the 28th week of pregnancy

At 28 weeks, your baby is about 35–37 cm long (crown to heel) and weighs approximately 1,000–1,200 grams. It is looking more and more like a newborn – with a rounder face, stronger fat deposits, and firmer muscles. The skin appears less translucent, as fat tissue is now forming beneath it.

The nervous system continues to mature, and the baby can respond to touch, sounds, and light. The eyelids open and close, and the pupils react to brightness. REM sleep, or dream sleep, also begins – your baby can dream!

The lungs are not yet fully developed, but they are making further progress. With each passing week, the chances of survival for premature babies increase significantly.

Your body in the 28th week of pregnancy

Your abdominal circumference continues to increase – many women now feel more pressure, heartburn, occasional shortness of breath or sleeping problems. The uterus is pressing more on the stomach and bladder, which can lead to more frequent urination.

Water retention, especially in the feet and hands, is also typical from this week onwards. Therefore, make sure to take regular breaks, keep your legs elevated, and wear loose clothing.

Your body continues to produce more blood to provide your baby with the best possible care. At the same time, you may experience iron deficiency – talk to your doctor about the right care.

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Tips for the 28th week of pregnancy

🤰 Balancing movement and rest: Walks, pregnancy yoga or swimming help relieve discomfort and promote well-being.
🥗 Keep an eye on your diet: Pay attention to an iron-rich, balanced diet with sufficient fluids.
📝 Planning birth preparation: Register early for a childbirth preparation course – now is the ideal time.
🍼 Start preparing for breastfeeding: If you want to breastfeed, start with gentle breast massages or find out about nursing bras and the like.
📑 Clarify organisational matters: Apply for maternity leave and parental allowance in good time, and inform your employer if necessary.

The most frequently asked questions about the 28th week of pregnancy

How big is my baby at 28 weeks pregnant?

The crown-to-heel length is about 35–37 cm – your child is roughly the size of an aubergine.

How does the baby’s immune system develop?

The immune system is strengthened by antibodies from the placenta – an important protection until birth.

What does the beginning of the final third of pregnancy mean?

With week 28 of pregnancy, the final third of pregnancy begins – your body is preparing itself for birth.

What is my child's sleep-wake rhythm like?

Your baby is now developing a sleep-wake rhythm and can distinguish between being active and sleeping.

What are the chances of survival in the case of premature birth?

In the case of a premature birth at 28 weeks of pregnancy, the chances of survival today are about 90%, thanks to modern medicine.

What can I do about excessive weight gain?

Pay attention to a balanced diet – your weight gain should be checked regularly by your doctor.

Why is iron particularly important now?

In the 28th week, your iron requirements increase significantly, as your body produces more blood and the placenta supplies your baby.

What is surfactant and why is it important?

Surfactant is a substance in the alveoli of the lungs that makes breathing easier after birth – it is now being produced in greater quantities.

How does the abdominal wall change in week 28 of pregnancy?

The abdominal wall is stretched significantly – stretch marks often appear, which is completely normal.

How can I support the child in finding the birth position?

Gentle movement and upright positions create space, allowing your baby to turn into the optimal birth position.

What role does the placenta play during this phase?

The placenta supplies your baby with nutrients and oxygen, and protects it from many complications.

How does life in the womb affect the baby?

Life in the womb is becoming increasingly interactive: your baby is responding to sounds, light, and its own movements.

What should be on my checklist for the third trimester?

The checklist should include: antenatal classes, hospital bag, newborn essentials, nursing bras, and all important questions for the midwife.

Is it possible to have premature contractions already?

Yes, premature contractions are possible – if you experience a regularly hard belly or pain, you should contact your doctor immediately.

Which organs are currently maturing particularly strongly?

The lungs with their alveoli and the brain are now making great progress – everything is preparing for life after birth.

Everything you need to know about week 28 of pregnancy