What's happening in your body
By week 28, your baby is viable outside the womb and growing rapidly — gaining around 200g per week in the final months. Your uterus now reaches your ribcage, which can cause breathlessness and heartburn. Braxton Hicks contractions become more noticeable — irregular, painless tightenings that are your uterus practising. Swelling in the feet and ankles is common and usually normal; sudden facial swelling or severe headaches are not and need urgent assessment.
Birth preparation
Antenatal classes — whether hospital-based or independent — are worth attending in your third trimester. They cover breathing and relaxation techniques, labour stages, pain relief options, and newborn care basics. Writing a birth plan helps you clarify your preferences for pain relief, monitoring, and intervention, and gives your birth team useful context. Remain flexible: birth rarely goes exactly to plan, and the goal is a safe outcome for you and your baby.
Monitoring and appointments
Third trimester appointments become more frequent — typically every 2–4 weeks from week 28, then weekly from week 36. Your doctor will check blood pressure, urine, fundal height, and fetal position. A Group B Streptococcus (GBS) swab is done around week 36 — if positive, you'll receive antibiotics in labour. After week 40, induction is typically discussed if labour doesn't start spontaneously.
Getting ready practically
Pack your hospital bag by week 36. Essentials include your maternity records, comfortable clothing, toiletries, feeding bras, and snacks for labour. Set up your newborn's sleeping space following safe sleep guidelines: a firm, flat mattress, no loose bedding, and room-sharing for at least the first 6 months significantly reduces SIDS risk. Install your car seat before your due date — you'll be grateful you did.
References & sources
This article reflects clinical guidance from the following recognised medical bodies.
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- UK National Health Service (NHS)
Educational information only — not a substitute for personal medical advice. Always consult your own doctor.