Pregnancy Calendar at Week 29
What's Happening with the Baby
By the 29th week of pregnancy, the baby's size has significantly increased. The baby is now about 37 cm long and weighs between 1400-1500 grams. The baby's movement decreases because the uterus, due to its size, tightly surrounds the baby. The woman may notice the baby starting to kick with its legs or arms. The relative tightness in the uterine cavity allows the baby to take the correct head-down position, which is necessary for normal childbirth.
Amniotic fluid enters the baby's nasal cavity. This helps develop the baby's olfactory receptors. The internal organs are actively functioning. For example, the kidneys produce about 500 ml of urine daily, which is released into the amniotic fluid through the urinary system.
What's Happening with Mom
Changes in a woman's body peak by the 29th week of pregnancy. The developing baby and hormonal shifts affect the functioning of internal organs and lead to unusual sensations.
Increase in Belly Size and Onset of Discomfort
Unpleasant sensations are associated with changes in the muscle tone of the uterus, as well as the baby's movements. Many pregnant women at 29 weeks experience itching on the skin due to its stretching. To prevent changes in the skin, it is recommended to use plenty of moisturizing with vegetable oils or cream. Itching can also be a sign of an allergy. In this case, it is necessary to consult a doctor to determine the cause and select appropriate treatment.
The Uterus is Palpable 8-10 cm Above the Navel
It is large enough to ensure the baby is in a normal position within the uterine cavity. Periodic rhythmic muscle contractions are known as Braxton Hicks contractions. They pose no threat to the health of the woman or the baby and occur in all pregnant women. To reduce discomfort, it is recommended to lie on the left side. This normalizes blood flow in the uterus and placenta and helps alleviate unpleasant sensations. If the intensity of the contractions and pain increases, it is necessary to call for emergency medical assistance immediately.
Pain Syndrome
Pain in the legs is associated with increased stress on the musculoskeletal system due to weight gain, uncomfortable shoes, or a calcium deficiency. Pregnant women are recommended to use orthopedic insoles and add foods rich in microelements to their diet: hard cheeses, milk, cottage cheese, etc. If the pain persists, it is necessary to consult a doctor.
Lower Back Pain
is experienced by every second woman at the 29th week of pregnancy. The cause is increased stress on the spine and a shift in the center of gravity. For prevention, it is necessary to regularly perform therapeutic exercises and use a supportive bandage. Both methods reduce the load on the spinal column and back muscles, helping to alleviate pain. Additionally, it is recommended to visit the pool and swim in clean open water bodies.
Perineal Pain
of mild intensity is a normal phenomenon associated with changes in the tone of the uterine muscles. These pains are not accompanied by other symptoms. If the pain is sharp and occurs simultaneously with fever and bloody vaginal discharge, you should seek medical help immediately. These symptoms indicate complications in the pregnancy.
Vaginal Discharge
Normally, they are clear with a whitish tint and have a liquid consistency. If they turn green or contain a large amount of mucus, as well as "cottage cheese-like" clumps, you should consult an obstetrician-gynecologist and get swabs to rule out infections. Discharge with blood could be related to the threat of preterm labor or placental abruption. Both conditions require immediate hospitalization and comprehensive treatment. If a woman is leaking amniotic fluid, she is admitted to the maternity ward to preserve the pregnancy.
Hemorrhoids
By the 29th week of gestation, the size of the uterus increases significantly. It compresses nearby anatomical structures, including blood vessels in the pelvis. This causes the venous walls to stretch and hemorrhoidal nodes to develop. Self-treatment for hemorrhoids is unacceptable because it can progress quickly. The treating physician prescribes therapy after examining the woman. Treatment includes dietary changes to eliminate foods that contribute to constipation.
Heartburn
Decreased tone of the cardiac sphincter, located between the esophagus and the stomach, leads to the release of stomach acid. When it comes into contact with the mucous membrane, it causes inflammation. This is accompanied by symptoms of heartburn: burning and pain in the chest area, which intensify after a heavy meal or physical exertion. Changes in the tone of the cardiac sphincter are associated with high levels of progesterone in a woman's body.
Development of Twins
When twins are developing, their sizes are smaller. Each one's height doesn't exceed 25 cm, and their weight is around 900 g. This is due to the distribution of nutrients between the two children. However, the development of their musculoskeletal system, nervous system, and internal organs is in line with age-appropriate norms.
Medical Examination
Timely detection of pathological symptoms and diseases in pregnant women helps prevent their negative impact on her health and subsequent childbirth.
Doctors
- If a woman experiences any painful sensations or other symptoms of illness, she is advised to consult an obstetrician-gynecologist;
- Therapist. Handles the treatment of internal organ diseases during their acute onset or exacerbation of chronic conditions in pregnant women.
Tests
- Laboratory tests are not conducted for all women, only those showing signs of any diseases;
- To assess overall health, a complete blood count and urinalysis are performed. Biochemical tests for hormones – progesterone and hCG – help monitor the course of pregnancy. If a pregnant woman has gestational diabetes, her blood glucose levels are regularly measured.
Examinations
- A gynecological exam always includes measuring blood pressure and pulse, body weight, and abdominal circumference. During palpation of the anterior abdominal wall, the height of the uterine fundus is determined;
- If a woman has not previously undergone an ultrasound of the uterus, it is scheduled at this stage. Ultrasound examination confirms the normal course of gestation and the development of the baby. The examination is recommended for women at risk of preterm labor. Ultrasound is used to determine the gender of the developing fetus, its motor activity, position in the uterine cavity, and heartbeat.
Challenges of Pregnancy
Pregnancy at any stage can be complicated by pathological conditions. Some of these bring only discomfort to the woman, while others threaten her health and the intrauterine development of the baby.
Placental Insufficiency
This condition is characterized by the placenta's inability to deliver the necessary amount of oxygen and nutrients to the baby. This slows down the baby's growth and the development of internal organs. When primary placental insufficiency is detected, a comprehensive treatment plan is selected.
Cervical Insufficiency
This pathology is characterized by the premature opening of the cervix. This can lead to a miscarriage. To prevent premature birth, hospitalization, examination in a medical facility, and treatment under the supervision of an obstetrician-gynecologist are required.
Placental Abruption
This condition is characterized by pain in the lower abdomen and lower back. The pain is accompanied by vaginal bleeding. If these symptoms appear, it is necessary to call an ambulance. Timely treatment can prevent complete placental abruption and the death of the baby.
Preterm Labor
There can be various reasons for this: disruptions in placental blood flow, severe somatic diseases in the woman, and more. When a baby is born at 29 weeks, they are premature; however, their internal organs and nervous system are sufficiently developed. Labor induction at an early stage may be performed for medical reasons when continuing the pregnancy poses a threat to the health of the woman and the developing fetus.
Intrauterine Infection of the Baby
In obstetrics, doctors identify TORCH infections. These include rubella, cytomegalovirus, herpes, and toxoplasmosis. If a woman contracts an acute infection during pregnancy, it can lead to miscarriage or developmental defects in the baby. Therefore, pregnant women need to take preventive measures, get timely vaccinations, and avoid contact with individuals who have infectious diseases. If a TORCH infection is detected during pregnancy, medical induction of labor may be considered to reduce the negative impact of the pathogens on the fetus.
What You Can and Can't Do
A pregnant woman at any stage of gestation should follow the doctors' recommendations regarding diet and lifestyle. These guidelines help prevent complications during the 29th week of pregnancy.
What an Expecting Mom CAN Do:
- Take vitamin and vitamin-mineral complexes approved by an obstetrician-gynecologist;
- Engage in prenatal fitness. Many hospitals and fitness centers offer special classes for pregnant women;
- Regularly walk in the fresh air. It's recommended to walk more and use stairs instead of elevators. This strengthens the cardiovascular system and helps prevent varicose veins;
- Attend prenatal massage sessions aimed at muscle relaxation and tension relief;
- Include fruits, vegetables, berries, nuts, and lean meats or fish in your diet;
- Sleeping on the left side is preferable. Sleeping on your back, stomach, or right side after the 13th week of gestation can significantly impair blood flow to the placenta and developing baby;
- Practice breathing exercises;
- Continue sexual activity if there are no medical contraindications. It's important to choose safe positions for sex;
- Perform exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles.
What an Expecting Mom CAN'T Do:
- continue smoking, drinking alcoholic beverages, or consuming alcohol;
- use any dietary supplements or medications without consulting a doctor;
- undergo X-ray examinations, including fluorography and CT scans;
- work in manufacturing and regularly use household chemicals and toxic substances;
- visit saunas, steam baths, or take hot baths. High ambient temperatures can trigger premature labor;
- engage in heavy physical exercises, such as lifting weights, sprinting, etc.;
- use uncertified cosmetics and skincare products, as they may contain toxins;
- drink more than 3 cups of coffee or caffeinated beverages per day. Limit consumption of black and green tea;
- visit beauty salons or tattoo studios, as there is a risk of transmitting pathogens or toxic substances when getting permanent makeup or tattoos.
Proper Nutrition
Food is a source of minerals, vitamins, and other essential nutrients. Making the right food choices can improve the overall well-being of a pregnant woman and help prevent diseases in the baby.
At 29 weeks of pregnancy, it is recommended to:
- eat foods rich in protein. Amino acids are the building blocks for cells, and their number increases in the developing baby's body every day. Therefore, it is recommended that women during gestation eat lean meats, fish, dairy, and fermented dairy products, among others;
- avoid fast food and processed foods. These are high in saturated fatty acids and simple carbohydrates, which increase the risk of developing diabetes and obesity. These conditions pose a threat to the woman's health and the normal development of the pregnancy;
- drink a sufficient amount of fluids throughout the day – 1.5-2 liters. This includes regular water, beverages, soups, and broths. However, limit the intake of tea or coffee, as caffeine negatively affects calcium absorption from the intestines and the overall well-being of the woman.
Need for Vitamins and Micronutrients
Minerals and vitamins regulate metabolism, the functioning of internal organs, and the nervous system. They are also essential for a child's development, participating in their growth processes. A deficiency in any of the micronutrients can lead to developmental defects and various issues with the nervous system or internal organs.
Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)
Plays a role in the functioning of a woman's nervous and cardiovascular systems. It helps normalize emotional well-being, neurological functions, and blood pressure. Thiamine can be obtained from grains, sesame seeds, oatmeal, nuts, red caviar, soy, vegetables, greens, meat, organ meats, eggs, milk, and cottage cheese.
Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid)
An important component in a woman's diet for the normal development of the fetus. Its main function is the maturation of the nervous system in the child and the formation of molecules responsible for storing genetic information (DNA and RNA). Folic acid is involved in the formation of red blood cells, and its deficiency can lead to anemia in pregnant women. A lack of this vitamin can result in immunodeficiency substances. Folic acid is found in greens, beef liver, cod liver, dried mushrooms, greens, legumes, avocados, bran, cheese, cottage cheese, nuts, peanuts, and plant seeds.
Vitamin B3
Participates in the metabolism of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats, as well as in the control of blood pressure levels. In cases of hypovitaminosis in women, the functioning of the heart, blood vessels, liver, and gastrointestinal organs is disrupted. Disorders manifest as relaxation of smooth muscles, leading to constipation, arterial hypotension, and more. You can get vitamin B3 from meat, liver, eggs, mushrooms, milk, grains, pasta, whole grain products, nuts, and legumes.
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)
Is essential for the functioning of the immune system and liver cells. A deficiency of riboflavin in women leads to iron-deficiency anemia, which causes hypoxia. Lack of oxygen negatively affects the intrauterine development of the fetus. This vitamin is found in liver and organ meats, milk, eggs, yeast, grains, white mushrooms, spinach, apricots, lettuce, parsley, basil, cabbage, rose hips, and nuts.
Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)
Supports the maturation of the nervous system, adrenal glands, and thyroid gland. A deficiency disrupts the endocrine system in women. Pantothenic acid is abundant in eggs, liver, fish, peanuts and nuts, dairy and fermented dairy products, as well as asparagus and cabbage.
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)
Essential for the functioning of the hematopoietic system and the formation of new blood cells. Pyridoxine is involved in the functioning of the digestive organs and the brain. Hypovitaminosis is accompanied by a decrease in blood pressure, leading to persistent hypotension. To get vitamin B6, doctors recommend eating eggs, legumes, potatoes, cabbage, lettuce, cherries, fish, grains, and nuts.
Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin)
Supports the formation of new blood cells, the functioning of liver tissue, and the nervous system. The main sign of deficiency is anemia, which is difficult to treat. Foods rich in cyanocobalamin include animal meat, sea fish and seafood, dairy, and fermented dairy products.
Vitamin C
Is a powerful antioxidant. It has various biological effects on the body of a woman and the fetus: it stimulates the immune system, reduces inflammation, prevents anemia and varicose veins, and helps eliminate toxins from the body. Regular intake of ascorbic acid with food reduces the risk of placental abruption and placental insufficiency, as vitamin C strengthens the vascular wall and improves metabolic processes through it. It is found in bell peppers, various types of cabbage, sorrel, eggplants, apricots, citrus fruits, kiwi, melons, peaches, sea buckthorn, kumis, milk, beef offal, seaweed, eggs, and more.
Vitamin A (Retinol)
An essential nutrient for health, it normalizes metabolism and blood formation in women and children. A deficiency can lead to placental insufficiency and disrupt the development of the musculoskeletal system and internal organs in the fetus. Consuming foods rich in retinol is recommended to prevent vision problems. Foods with vitamin A include liver from fish and animals, egg yolks, vegetable oils, milk and dairy products, greens, vegetables, and fruits. Dried fruits, especially raisins, dried apricots, and prunes, are also rich in retinol.
Vitamin D (Calciferol)
It regulates the metabolism of calcium and phosphorus in women and children. It normalizes the formation of bone tissue and teeth, and helps maintain blood pressure and uterine tone. Endocrinologists highlight its crucial role in the thyroid function of both the fetus and the pregnant woman. Calciferol is found in mackerel, chum salmon, and other fish, cod liver, fish oil, butter, cottage cheese, cheese, greens, eggs, and mushrooms.
Vitamin E (Tocopherol)
– the main antioxidant in the human body. It protects the cells of the nervous system and internal organs from toxins and any damaging factors. Because of this, vitamin E reduces the severity of inflammatory processes and prevents the formation of blood clots in veins. Tocopherol supports normal blood flow in the placenta, reducing the risk of primary placental insufficiency. The highest content of this vitamin is found in unrefined vegetable oils, grains, legumes, sprouted seeds, beef liver, egg yolk, meat, nuts, and milk.
Iodine
It plays a role in the formation of thyroid hormones in the thyroid gland. A deficiency of this trace element in a child can lead to cretinism – an irreversible disorder in the development of the nervous system. Thyroid hormones are involved in regulating metabolism and maintaining physiological body temperature. It's easy to get iodine from food. It is abundant in sea fish, seaweed, sesame seeds, persimmons, buckwheat, black currants, and various nuts.
Iron
– the main component of hemoglobin. This is a protein found in red blood cells that helps transport oxygen through the bloodstream. When there's an iron deficiency, anemia develops, leading to hypoxia in both the woman and the child. This negatively affects the development of internal organs and the nervous system, often resulting in perinatal encephalopathy. Iron can be found in beef liver and organ meats, meat, poultry, fish, seafood, grains, legumes, various greens and vegetables, as well as fruits.
Calcium
is a part of dental material and bone tissue. When there's a deficiency, their formation is disrupted, leading to osteoporosis and cavities in women. For the child, this can cause developmental anomalies in the musculoskeletal system. This micronutrient helps maintain the tone of smooth muscles, which are part of blood vessels and the uterus. A lack of calcium is associated with arterial hypotension (low blood pressure) and disturbances in the tone of the uterine wall. You can get calcium from consuming greens, cabbage, garlic, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, bran, whole grain pasta and baked goods, gooseberries, black currants, cherries, and mineral water. Milk and dairy products, such as cottage cheese and cheeses, are also rich in calcium.
Phosphorus
It is also a component of bones. Additionally, it plays a role in the formation of new proteins and nucleic acids (RNA and DNA). A deficiency in this mineral disrupts metabolism and muscle function. The functioning of the kidneys and cardiovascular system in both the child and the mother is regulated by the level of phosphorus in the blood. To get enough of this micronutrient through food, doctors and dietitians recommend eating meat, fish and seafood, milk, cheese, cottage cheese, legumes and grains, as well as greens and vegetables.
Magnesium
An important element for maintaining the stable state of genetic information in a child's cells. It is part of the proteins that protect DNA and RNA from damaging factors, such as toxins. A magnesium deficiency is associated with changes in blood pressure, disruptions in the endocrine organs, and osteoporosis. You can get magnesium from regular water, nuts, seeds, sesame, grains, seaweed, dates, watermelon, dried fruits, green onions, berries, hard cheeses, rye bread, green peas, and whole grain products.
Zinc
Zinc plays a role in the formation of hormones and proteins within cells. This mineral regulates metabolism, immune function, and the health of the heart and blood vessels. A zinc deficiency can disrupt cell growth and reproduction, as well as the functioning of the lymphatic system and brain. Zinc helps maintain pregnancy and prevents it from going overdue. This trace element is found in all types of meat, egg yolks, seafood, cheese, legumes, spinach, nuts, cocoa, and unrefined vegetable oils.
Sodium and Potassium
Both of these trace elements are essential for maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance, as they control ion levels within cells and urine formation. An imbalance in these elements can lead to leg swelling, increased urination, and other issues. You can get plenty of potassium and magnesium from any vegetables, fruits, and berries. They are also found in dried fruits, nuts, and any mineral waters.
Selenium
A powerful antioxidant that, along with vitamin E, protects the cells of both the child and the mother from toxins. Additionally, it regulates the immune system, preventing the development of autoimmune diseases and immunodeficiency conditions. Foods rich in selenium include fish, cod liver, all types of meat and organ meats (kidneys, liver), berries, greens, eggs, milk, and cottage cheese.
Important! Choose a multivitamin complex based on the recommendation of your obstetrician-gynecologist.
Helpful Tips
An important recommendation for women at 29 weeks is to not give up on fitness and to regularly engage in physical exercises. Exercise has a positive impact on the pelvic muscles and the body as a whole: it improves the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, prevents digestive disorders, normalizes mood, and more. After a fitness session, a woman feels relaxed and refreshed.
The selection of exercises for a pregnant woman in the third trimester of gestation is conducted only by a specialist, such as a sports medicine doctor. In the first few days of training, they monitor the correct technique for performing exercises and make adjustments if necessary. Physical activity is tailored individually for each woman. This helps to prevent overtraining or insufficient beneficial effects from fitness.
Helpful Tip for Future Dads
A future father can assist his partner in preparing the necessary documents for maternity leave at her workplace. To do this, he should familiarize himself with the relevant legislation and list all the required documents that need to be obtained in advance. For example, this includes a certificate from the prenatal clinic confirming the pregnancy registration.
It is recommended to discuss with the wife's employer in advance the period and planned duration of the maternity leave. This will help in finding a temporary employee to cover her duties during her leave. For advice on how to properly prepare the maternity leave documents, you can consult the workplace union.
Exercises for Expecting Moms
Physical activity is essential for pregnant women at any stage of gestation. It has a comprehensive positive effect on the body: it reduces pain, strengthens the muscles of the spine and pelvic floor, and helps alleviate swelling and fatigue. The impact of fitness on the gastrointestinal tract is well-studied. Regular exercise reduces the risk of constipation and bloating by enhancing the peristalsis of the large intestine.
It's important to note that the workouts should be of moderate intensity. Otherwise, they may contribute to the development of preterm labor and worsen the woman's condition. To choose the right exercises, it's recommended to consult with an obstetrician-gynecologist and a sports doctor. Generally, fitness routines do not include lifting any heavy weights or performing sudden, intense movements. Joint and breathing exercises are conducted. Pregnant women can also attend prenatal yoga classes. These classes help women learn to control their breathing and prepare for the upcoming childbirth.
Discomforts During Pregnancy
Upper Respiratory Infections Caused by Viral or Bacterial Microorganisms
These are characterized by a fever in women, a runny nose, a sore throat, and redness in the throat. If these symptoms appear, it is recommended to consult a doctor. The specialist will tailor an individual therapy plan, which will definitely include antiviral medications or antibiotics that are safe to use during pregnancy. It is not recommended to use acetaminophen to reduce fever, as it can negatively affect liver function.
Bowel Irregularities
Constipation and diarrhea are common among most women during pregnancy. Their occurrence is related to decreased muscle tone in the gastrointestinal tract and disrupted peristalsis due to high levels of progesterone. To address diarrhea and constipation, you should consult a doctor who can help adjust your diet and recommend appropriate fitness exercises.
Heartburn
It develops due to increased intra-abdominal pressure from an enlarging uterus. The compression of the stomach causes gastric juice to be pushed into the esophagus, which has a thin mucous membrane. This irritation leads to the characteristic symptoms of heartburn: burning and pain in the lower chest area, which intensifies after meals, exercise, and prolonged lying down. To alleviate the condition, it is recommended to adjust your diet and choose safe antacid medications that reduce the acidity level of gastric juice.
Yeast Infection (Candidiasis)
It appears against the backdrop of decreased immune system activity. Hormonal imbalances contribute to the development of Candida fungal microorganisms in the vagina. Predisposing factors include hypothermia, accompanying infectious diseases, uncontrolled antibiotic use, and more. Yeast infection is accompanied by the appearance of cottage cheese-like vaginal discharge, burning, and pain in the lower abdomen. Antifungal medications are used to treat the condition. It is recommended to use them in the form of suppositories for local application.
Cystitis and Pyelonephritis
Starting from the first weeks of gestation, pregnant women experience disruptions in the process of emptying the bladder. A small volume of residual urine remains, which becomes a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to inflammatory damage to the bladder and the development of cystitis. Without treatment, pathogenic microorganisms can ascend to the ureters and the renal pelvis, causing pyelonephritis. This is a severe condition characterized by impaired kidney function and pronounced intoxication syndrome with fever and general weakness. Treatment necessarily includes antibacterial medications.
Varicose Veins
Varicose veins in the lower extremities develop due to several factors: increased blood volume, elevated progesterone levels in the body, and increased body weight. The condition can lead to various complications, such as thrombophlebitis. Varicose veins are accompanied by discomfort and pain in the legs, which intensify at the end of the workday and after heavy physical exertion. To prevent this condition, it is recommended to wear compression stockings, which facilitate blood flow through the veins of the legs.
Hemorrhoids
Occurs in 40-50% of pregnant women. The condition is characterized by the dilation of veins in the rectal area, leading to the formation of hemorrhoids. Main symptoms include discomfort and pain during bowel movements. Without comprehensive treatment, the pathology progresses, resulting in bleeding from the anus. Treatment is prescribed by a doctor after examining the woman.
Checklist
- Cut out bad habits. Smoking cigarettes or drinking alcoholic beverages is unacceptable;
- Follow the principles of a balanced diet when eating, using foods rich in minerals and vitamins;
- Avoid wearing high-heeled shoes. They can lead to varicose veins and injuries to tendons and ligaments;
- Regularly apply anti-stretch mark creams or ointments to the skin on your abdomen;
- Make sure any decorative or skincare cosmetics are hypoallergenic. This reduces the risk of allergies in the newborn;
- Pay close attention to your baby's movements, counting the number of kicks and movements;
- Choose a maternity hospital and visit it. It’s recommended to talk to several obstetricians-gynecologists about how they handle care before, during, and after childbirth;
- Plan a "birth plan" with your husband and doctor. This helps reduce stress before the big event;
- Prepare the necessary documents for maternity leave.