29 Weeks Pregnant: Symptoms, Body Changes & Baby Development

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In This Article

How Many Months Pregnant Are You At 29 Weeks?

At 29 weeks, you enter the seventh month and the third trimester of pregnancy.

Read this post to know how your baby is developing, what prenatal care you should take, what to expect, and tips for a smooth pregnancy.

How Big Is Your Baby This Week?

This week, your fetus is as big as a butternut squash (1). The baby measures 15.5-16in (38.6-40cm) in length and weighs 2.5-3lb (1.15-1.3kg) (2). Your baby bump will be quite prominent now.

Baby Development This Week

Here is how the baby develops this week:

Body organsDevelopment
Eyes (3)Rapid eye movements start. Pupils of eyes respond to light (4)
BrainBrainwave activity begins. NeuronsiCells within the nervous system that act as messengers between nerve cells, muscle, or gland cells. are forming (5)
MouthTooth buds begin to appear. Taste buds can differentiate between sweet and sour (6). Your baby may begin to smile
Lungs (7)Practices breathing more consistently, in a regular rhythm. BronchiolesiSmall branches of air tubes in the lungs. are developing
Bone marrowStarts producing red blood cells
SkinIs less wrinkled as more white fat gets deposited
Bones (8)Getting harder and stronger. Skull remains soft

Fetal movement and position: By this week, your baby is very active and starts to kick a lot. However, the frequency may start decreasing due to reduced space inside, which makes it difficult for the baby to make movements. The baby may also attain a head-down position or a breech position this week. In the case of breech position, there is still time for the baby to move to the optimal position for birth.

What Symptoms Do You Experience In The 29th Week Of Pregnancy?

Some symptoms of pregnancy you might experience this week include:

  • Weight gain: An average weight gain of one to two pounds per week during the third trimester of pregnancy is considered safe, as recommended by the American Pregnancy Association (APA) (8). However, in case of women who have BMI less than 18.5 and greater than 24.9, the recommended weight gain rates usually range in between 0.5 to one pound.
BMIBelow 18.518.5 – 24.925 – 29.930 and above
Weight gain (Pounds)17- 2615- 2310-177-14
  • Food cravings: You may experience cravings for both food and non-food items.
  • Lightheadedness: The pressure that the growing uterus exerts on the blood vessels can restrict the blood flow to some parts of the brain, which causes lightheadedness or dizziness.
  • Fatigue: You may experience fatigue in the third trimester due to the extra weight you are carrying, interrupted sleep, and frequent urination.
  • Shortness of breath: As the enlarged uterus pushes the diaphragmiThe thin muscle that aids in breathing and is situated below the lungs and heart, separating the chest from the abdomen. up, it causes breathing difficulty.
  • Backache: The extra pressure exerted by the baby’s weight on the lower back causes a backache. In the case of multiple pregnancies, women may feel more pressure on their back.
  • Hemorrhoids: The uterus puts pressure on the blood vessels in the rectal and vaginal area, which causes the veins to swell up. Hemorrhoids can be sometimes painful.
  • Constipation: The progesteroneiA female reproductive hormone that plays an important role in menstruation, pregnancy, and breastfeeding. hormone relaxes the digestive tract, which slows down the digestion process and retains the food longer in the tract.
  • Heartburn: The growing uterus pushes the gastric juices upward into the esophagus, causing heartburn.
  • Frequent urination: The growing uterus puts pressure on the bladder, which increases the urge to urinate.
  • Trouble sleeping and migraines: The aches, anxiety, and urge to urinate frequently deprive you of a sound sleep. Sometimes, blinding headaches like migraine hit.
  • Pregnancy brain: Forgetfulness is quite common this week.
  • Changes in nails: The hormonal changes can cause brittle nails or hasten their growth.
  • Edema: Water retention in the body causes swelling of the face and feet.
  • Hot flashes: A shift in the body temperature makes you feel hotter.

    A shift in the body temperature may make you feel hotter.

    Image: Shutterstock

  • Varicose vein: Increase in the blood flow to the lower parts of the body causes swelling of the veins in the legs.
  • Braxton Hicks contractions: Now that you are in the third trimester, you may experience Braxton Hicks contractions. They are the feeling of pressure around your abdomen, similar to labor pains. Braxton Hicks contractions are called “false pains.”

You will also notice physical and emotional changes as the pregnancy progresses.

Changes In The Body At 29 Weeks

Physical changes

  • An enlarged and itchy belly
  • Enlarged breasts
  • Darker and bigger areola
  • Stretch marks
  • Brittle nails

Emotional changes

You may face anxiety, 29th week pregnancy.

Image: Shutterstock

  • Anxiety
  • Mood swings
  • Nesting

This week, you are a little closer to full term and at risk of preterm labor. More about it next.

Your OB/GYN Visit

Doctors may check your blood pressure at 29th week pregnancy.

Image: Shutterstock

The preliminary tests this week include:

  • Weight check
  • Blood pressure
  • Symphysis fundal heightiIt is measured from the mother's pubic bone (symphysis pubis) to the top of the womb to determine if a baby is small for its gestational age.
  • Check fetal heart sound
  • Urine test to check for sugar and protein
  • An ultrasound is done in the case of multiple pregnancies or high-risk pregnancy to track the baby’s growth.

Your doctor may suggest you continue your prenatal vitamins. Proper prenatal care at home is necessary to stay healthy and minimize the chances of preterm labor.

Tips For Mom-to-be

You should complete two doses of tetanus toxoids.

Image: Shutterstock

  • Do not stand for a long time.
  • Count of the baby’s kicks. Lie down and feel the kicks. If you don’t feel them, then munch on some sweet snacks, urinate, count in the left lateral position. The sugar rush can make the baby move.
  • Stay hydrated.
  • Give your body enough rest.
  • Stay calm and relaxed.
  • Eat healthy, home-cooked food.
  • Have smaller meals at regular intervals.
  • Eat fiber-rich foods including fruits, vegetables, whole grain bread, breakfast cereals, bran, and prunes.
  • Do not lift heavy objects.
  • Do not take medications without the doctor’s prescription.
  • In the case of hemorrhoids, apply hazel witch cold compresses on the affected area for comfort.
  • Take your supplements.
  • Complete two doses of tetanus toxoids in between 17-35 weeks
  • Take childbirth classes to learn about labor positions and different pain relief techniques.
  • Engage in exercises such as walking. Practicing Kegel exercisesiExercises that strengthen pelvic floor muscles and prevent accidental leakage of urine or stool. will help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles.
  • Wear loose and comfortable maternity clothes.
  • Start planning your baby shower.
  • If you are working, you can inform your boss about your plans on maternity leave.
  • Read up about labor and delivery so that you are well-prepared in advance.
  • Pack a hospital bag containing the supplies you would need most before and immediately after delivery.
  • Start nursery preparation activities with your partner.
  • Enroll in prenatal yoga classes to learn calming techniques.

Seek your partner’s support as and when you need at this time.

protip_icon Point to consider
If you are experiencing constipation during pregnancy, you can reduce or eliminate iron supplements. However, do not make any changes to your supplements without the doctor’s consent (13).

Tips For Dad-to-be

Join your partner in workouts.

Image: Shutterstock

  • Accompany you during the prenatal visits.
  • Create a happy environment at home.
  • Join you in workouts.
  • Help you with household chores.
  • Plan an outing for you.
  • Stay patient with your mood swings and try to understand what you are going through.
  • Go for maternal shopping.
  • Get all the baby gear in place.
  • Start looking for baby names.
  • Read childbirth education material and parenting books to know what to expect before and after childbirth.
protip_icon Quick tip
Accompany your partner to childbirth classes to keep yourself well-informed and aware of what to expect during labor (13).

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is the baby fully formed at 29 weeks?

No, at 29 weeks, your baby is still growing, and the organs continue to develop. However, at this stage, they have fully developed hearing (9).

2. Can I travel 29 weeks pregnant?

14 to 28 weeks of pregnancy is considered an ideal and safe time to travel. Traveling after 28 weeks may be an uncomfortable experience (10).

3. How often should a woman see her doctor or midwife during the 29th week of pregnancy?

During the 29th week of pregnancy, it is important for a woman to schedule prenatal appointments with her doctor or midwife every two weeks (11).

4. What questions should I ask the doctor at the 29-week prenatal appointment?

You may ask your doctor questions about your and your baby’s health. Alternatively, you may tell them how you feel and ask if your feelings are typical for pregnancy. You may also ask questions like – “What if my water breaks during the night?” “How can I distinguish between false labor and real labor?,” “Is it common for my hands and feet to be swollen?” or “How likely is it that I will require a C-section?”(12).

5. What are some important things a woman should prepare for as she approaches the third trimester?

During the third trimester of pregnancy, women should prioritize maintaining holistic well-being by focusing on overall health. Regular prenatal care, including frequent visits to healthcare providers, becomes crucial for monitoring the health of both the mother and the baby. These preparations guarantee a seamless and knowledgeable transition into the final stage of pregnancy.

6. What should I be doing to prepare for labor and delivery at 29 weeks pregnant?

At 29 weeks of pregnancy, it is not crucial to focus on preparing for labor and delivery. However, you can attend childbirth classes, discuss birth preferences with your healthcare provider, create a birth plan, and pack a hospital bag with essentials.

The 29th week of pregnancy brings more baby kicks, weight gain, dizziness, back pain, constipation, trouble sleeping, and edema, among other symptoms. Eat home-cooked meals in small portions frequently to prevent digestive issues such as heartburn and constipation. Stay hydrated and practice mild exercise to ease discomfort and swelling. Remember to bring relevant lifestyle changes, such as avoiding lifting objects that are heavy and managing stress to remain calm. Make sure you take your prenatal supplements and attend check-ups and vaccinations as instructed by your doctor.

Infographic: Pregnancy Symptoms At 29th Week Of Gestation

Being in the 29th week of pregnancy means you’re already in your third trimester. Your baby bump will look more evident now, and your fetus will be as big as the butternut squash. Check out the infographic below to learn about several symptoms you may observe at this stage of pregnancy.

common symptoms to observe during 29th week of pregnancy (infographic)

Illustration: Momjunction Design Team

Key Pointers

  • Baby is rapidly growing and currently the size of a butternut squash at 29 weeks of pregnancy.
  • Symptoms that can be experienced include backaches, weight gain, headaches, nausea, and dizziness.
  • Physical and emotional changes that may be observed include mood swings, stretch marks, enlarged breasts, and an itchy belly.
  • Prenatal checkup may include a weight check, blood pressure test, urine test, and other tests as advised by the doctor.
  • Useful tips to ensure healthy gestation include staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet, and getting enough sleep.

Illustration: 29 Weeks Pregnant: Symptoms Body Changes & Baby Development

29th Week Pregnancy_illustration

Image: Stable Diffusion/MomJunction Design Team


Expect to feel more movement from your baby as they grow and develop during your 28th week of pregnancy. In this video, discover more on what to expect during this exciting time.

References

MomJunction's articles are written after analyzing the research works of expert authors and institutions. Our references consist of resources established by authorities in their respective fields. You can learn more about the authenticity of the information we present in our editorial policy.
  1. 29 weeks pregnant – all you need to know.
    https://www.tommys.org/pregnancy-information/im-pregnant/pregnancy-week-by-week/29-weeks-pregnant
  2. Fetal development.
    https://embryology.med.unsw.edu.au/embryology/index.php/Fetal_Development
  3. How your fetus grows during pregnancy.
    https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/how-your-fetus-grows-during-pregnancy
  4. Prenatal Summary.
    https://www.ehd.org/prenatal-summary.php
  5. Pregnancy week-by-week.
    https://www.duedatecalculator.org/pregnancy-week-by-week/
  6. 29 weeks pregnant.
    https://raisingchildren.net.au/pregnancy/week-by-week/third-trimester/29-weeks
  7. How your fetus grows during pregnancy.
    https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/how-your-fetus-grows-during-pregnancy?utm_source=redirect&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=otn#twentynine
  8. Pregnancy weight gain.
    https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/pregnancy-health-wellness/pregnancy-weight-gain/
  9. Baby Development Month By Month.
    https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/week-by-week/baby-development-month-by-month/
  10. Travel During Pregnancy.
    https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/travel-during-pregnancy
  11. Prenatal care in your third trimester
    https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000558.htm
  12. Questions to ask at your appointments.
    https://www.geisinger.org/patient-care/conditions-treatments-specialty/questions-to-ask-during-prenatal-appointments
  13. 29 Weeks Pregnant.
    https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/week-by-week/29-weeks-pregnant/

 

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Dr. Subhashis Samajder, a consultant gynecologist-obstetrician with nine years of experience, is currently practicing at Narayana Multispeciality Hospital, Howrah. His area of expertise includes abortion, colposcopy surgery, hysterectomy, hysteroscopy, infertility treatment, and menopausal problems.

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Shreeja holds a postgraduate degree in Chemistry and diploma in Drug Regulatory Affairs from the University of Mumbai. Before joining MomJunction, she worked as a research analyst with a leading multinational pharmaceutical company.

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Rebecca is a pregnancy writer and editor with a passion for delivering research-based and engaging content in areas of fertility, pregnancy, birth, and post-pregnancy. She did her graduation in Biotechnology and Genetics from Loyola Academy, Osmania University and obtained a certification in ‘Nutrition and Lifestyle in Pregnancy’ from Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU).

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Aneesha holds a Bachelor's degree in Biotechnology from USTM, Meghalaya and Master’s degree in Applied Microbiology from VIT, Vellore. With two years of experience, she has worked on different research projects in the field of Food Sciences.

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