Third Trimester · Week 29
29 Weeks Pregnant: Rapid weight gain begins
Baby development
Your baby at 29 weeks
In the last couple months of pregnancy, your baby gains weight fast, and a big chunk of birth weight is added during this season. Your body is working hard to support that growth.
Your body this week
What you might be feeling at 29 weeks
Getting uncomfortable. Your baby is bigger, your organs are being squished, and sleep is a nightly negotiation. Heartburn, sciatica, and swollen feet are common. This is when birth starts feeling close enough to be scary. Fear about birth is universal.
From Shelbi
Shelbi Kohler · mother of seven · certified birth doula
If you weren't uncomfortable before, you might be now. Your baby is putting on weight, your organs are being squished, and sleep is becoming a nightly negotiation. With my fourth, I started sleeping in a recliner at 29 weeks because lying flat was impossible. Find what works — a pregnancy pillow, propped up on the couch, whatever gets you rest. This is also when a lot of moms start feeling the emotional weight of what's coming. The birth is getting close enough to feel real, and that can bring up fear. As a doula, I tell my clients: fear about birth is universal, and it doesn't mean you're not ready. It means you care.
For you
This week is about getting through it
Scroll up to revisit your baby's development and Shelbi's encouragement for week 29. When you're ready, share this week with your partner.
Share this week
Save and share your week 29 card
Download a beautifully designed card with this week's illustration to share with family, friends, or on social media.
Card is 1080×1080 — save the image to share via iMessage, Instagram, or Facebook.
Common questions
29 weeks pregnant: your questions answered
What should I expect at 29 weeks pregnant? +
Getting uncomfortable. Your baby is bigger, your organs are being squished, and sleep is a nightly negotiation. Heartburn, sciatica, and swollen feet ...
Is my baby moving normally at 29 weeks? +
Movement patterns vary. If you notice a significant decrease in movement, contact your provider. When in doubt, always call.
Follow every week in the free app
Weekly baby updates, your birth plan, and doula-backed guidance — all free, all in one place.
Download the True Joy Birthing app