Week 29

Your ankles may have started to swell (and maybe your hands as well). This is normal during pregnancy and, as long as there is no protein in your urine and your blood pressure is OK, don't worry. The swelling occurs because your body is holding more water than usual and it tends to gather in the hands and feet at the end of the day, especially if you have been standing a lot. Sitting or lying with your feet higher than your heart will help reduce the swelling, but mention it at your next antenatal check just in case it is a sign of early pre-eclampsia. Your baby has reached a weight that would give him/her a good chance of survival outside of the womb – at least in a special care unit. But the womb is still the best incubator, and premature babies can have a lot of problems, so the risk of preterm labour should be recognised and, if possible, delayed to gain a few more vital weeks.

Status

• Week 29 after last menstrual period (LMP)
• 28 completed weeks plus 1-7 days, in obstetrical terms
• Week 27 after conception
• Fetal length: 22cm (crown-rump-length)
• Fetal weight: 1,000g (1kg)