Your pregnancy at Week 29
Highlights: #
- Baby may start smiling, especially during sleep.
- Hiccups continue and are not uncomfortable for the baby.
- Due to limited space, kicks might feel more like jabs and pokes.
- Baby's weight is around 2½ to 3 pounds, with length 15½ to 16 inches.
- Baby's skin smooths out as more white fat is deposited, while brown fat aids temperature regulation.
- Begin daily kick counts to monitor baby's movements and seek changes in frequency.
- Varicose veins might appear due to increased blood volume, pressure on pelvic veins, and hormonal changes.
- Various pregnancy symptoms including constipation, migraines, hemorrhoids, pregnancy brain, and fast-growing nails might be present.
- Tips for managing symptoms and taking care during this stage.
Your Baby at Week 29 #
Baby's First Smile
Your baby may begin to smile, especially during sleep.
More Hiccups
Hiccups continue, feeling like light, rhythmic taps to you, and they aren't uncomfortable for the baby.
Tight Quarters
Due to limited space, your baby's kicks might feel more like jabs and pokes.
Your Body at Week 29 #
Varicose Veins
Around 20 percent of expectant mothers develop varicose veins, which can be caused or worsened by increased blood volume, pressure on pelvic veins, and hormonal changes.
Pregnancy Symptoms in Week 29 #
Constipation
Pregnancy hormones relaxing muscles can lead to constipation. Probiotic L. acidophilus in yogurt can aid digestion.
Migraines
Alleviate migraines with rest in a quiet, dark room and occasional acetaminophen use.
Hemorrhoids
Pressure and increased blood flow to the pelvic area can cause rectal veins to bulge. Maintain hygiene and hydration to ease discomfort.
Pregnancy Brain
Hormones can affect memory and brain function. This temporary symptom is normal and common.
Fast-Growing Nails
Pregnancy hormones can make nails grow faster but might also lead to dryness and brittleness. Trim nails regularly.
Heartburn or Indigestion
Avoid large meals and food close to bedtime to manage heartburn. Certain foods like coffee and chocolate can exacerbate the issue.
Things to Take Care in Week 29 #
Buy Breast Pads
Prepare for potential leakage of colostrum by having nursing pads on hand.
Keep Moving to Prevent RLS
Restless legs syndrome (RLS) might disrupt sleep. Maintain movement during the day and ensure adequate iron intake.
Decorate the Nursery ... on a Budget
Set up your baby's nursery creatively without overspending. Utilize DIY decorations and displays.
Soothe Sensitive Skin
Pregnancy hormones can lead to skin sensitivity. Consult your doctor for safe remedies.
Have the Right Fitness Gear
Proper workout gear is important during pregnancy. Ensure proper support, hydration, and balance.
Consider Cord Blood Banking
Learn about cord blood banking options, whether for donation or private storage, to potentially treat diseases in the future.
Recognize Contractions
Braxton Hicks contractions might occur more frequently. Learn to differentiate between rehearsal and real labor contractions.
FAQs #
Question: Why might I be experiencing migraines during pregnancy?
Answer: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can trigger migraines. Rest, a quiet environment, and occasional acetaminophen use can help.
Question: How can I manage heartburn or indigestion?
Answer: Avoid large meals and food close to bedtime, especially coffee and chocolate.
Question: What is cord blood banking?
Answer: Cord blood contains stem cells that can treat certain diseases. Consider donating or privately storing it after birth.
Question: How do I recognize contractions?
Answer: Braxton Hicks contractions might be more frequent. Consult your doctor to differentiate between rehearsal and real labor contractions.
Question: What can I do about restless legs syndrome (RLS) during pregnancy?
Answer: Maintain movement during the day and ensure sufficient iron intake to potentially alleviate RLS symptoms.
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