29 Weeks pregnant: baby weight in kg + what to expect

You’re 29 weeks pregnant—congratulations on reaching this exciting stage! Your baby is now the size of a butternut squash. From their heel to the top of their head (crown-heel length), they are about 40 cm long (15.7 inches). As they are slowly but surely plumping up, they weigh approximately 1.1 – 1.4kg (2.4 – 3 lbs). It’s exciting to finally see your 29-week baby’s weight in kilograms!

Their muscles and lungs are maturing rapidly, and they’re continuing to build up body fat for life outside the womb. You may also feel more defined kicks and movements as your baby grows stronger.

You’re in the second week of your third trimester, and your baby is starting to push against its confined quarters. It’s almost reached its birth length and now just needs to add to its baby weight.  

At this stage, you might experience increased backaches, leg cramps, or trouble sleeping. Staying active with gentle stretches, maintaining good posture, and using pillows for support while resting can help ease these symptoms. Let’s dive into what to expect at 29 weeks pregnant and share tips for a smooth journey through the third trimester.

Psst: Not sure if you are 29 weeks pregnant? Read our post, “How many months pregnant am I?” To find out. 

Your baby at 29 weeks in the womb

Around the 29-week pregnancy mark, your baby will start to smile! It’ll have its first smile this week and will likely be beaming as it sleeps. It is also able to open its eyes and might turn towards light outside the womb. It’s a sweet thing to imagine. 

Fat

Your baby is starting to add to its fat storage and slowly put on weight. At week 29 of pregnancy, the skin will smooth out with the addition of fat deposits, and it will become less and less wrinkly. 

Previously, your baby accumulated the brown fat it needed to regulate its body temperature. Now, white fat is deposited under its skin surface—this type serves as an energy source. When your baby is out in the world, this will be a crucial part of its little body.

Movement

Since your baby is simultaneously growing stronger and heavier, you will feel their pokes and jabs with a little more force. Their living space is decreasing, so you’ll feel their elbows and knees more than their kicking legs.

At this stage, when your baby moves, it’s likely because it is reacting to stimuli it receives. Whether that’s the sound of your or your partner’s voice, a barking dog, your movement, or some spicy food you ate for dinner.

Premature birth

If born prematurely, a 29-week-old fetus has a high viability rate. From 29 to 30 weeks, the baby has a 90% chance of survival, as its organs are well-developed at this point.

ALSO CHECK OUT: Pregnancy Due Date Calculator

Your body at 29 weeks of pregnancy

In week 29, you might feel a growing physical discomfort as your baby gets heavier and larger. But it’s for a good cause, as your baby is getting ready for life outside of the womb. 

If you’re wondering what to expect at 29 weeks, here are some things you can look out for:

• Varicose veins. Around 20% of expecting mothers develop varicose veins at some point. Your blood volume increases during pregnancy, and hormones, particularly progesterone, make your veins relax. This may result in varicose veins. To prevent or minimise them, try not to stand or sit for long periods of time and get some daily movement and exercise. They will likely recede a few months after birth.

• Constipation. The same pregnancy hormones that relax your veins can relax your muscles, including those in your bowels. This can cause you to become constipated. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids and eat fiber-rich foods, so your body can rid itself of waste.

• Hemorrhoids. The increase in blood flow can cause the veins in your rectum to bulge and pop out. To alleviate discomfort, use gentle wet wipes instead of toilet paper and drink lots of water.

• Indigestion and heartburn. With your baby pushing on your organs, you might find yourself experiencing indigestion and/or heartburn. This will most likely affect you during the night, so avoid eating close to bedtime. Lying down allows your stomach acid to make its way up more easily since gravity isn’t helping to keep it down. And the weight of your little one will push the food and bile up.

Taking care of yourself when pregnant at 29 weeks

As you take great care of your growing baby bump, you should always keep your own body in mind. After all, pregnancy is an endurance sport, and you need to ensure that you are as happy and comfortable as possible for the marathon. The healthier you are, the happier your baby will be.

• Get enough movement. During the third trimester, restless legs syndrome (RLS) is very common. This, coupled with heartburn, possible leg cramps, insomnia, and the need to pee every few hours, can become rather frustrating. It’s very important for you to get enough movement and light pregnancy exercise during this time. It may not be able to prevent these symptoms altogether, but it will alleviate them.

• Think about cord blood banking. Since you are in your third trimester and the birth of your baby is very much in sight, you should take some time to consider cord blood banking. If you’re not sure what this is – the blood in your baby’s umbilical cord contains stem cells that can be used to treat diseases like cancer. This painless and safe procedure is done just after you give birth, and it takes only 5 minutes. Some donate it for those who need it, while others keep it in private storage in case it’s needed within their family at some point. It’s certainly something to be considered.

• Get enough calcium. Your body and your baby need plenty of calcium throughout your pregnancy, but it may be even more important at this stage of your baby’s growth. Their bones are growing and becoming denser, so around 250mg of the calcium you consume goes directly to your baby. If you don’t get enough calcium, your baby will get the calcium they need from your own bones. This can increase your risk of pregnancy-induced high blood pressure and possibly even premature birth.

FAQs: 29 weeks pregnant – what to expect

If you’re still unsure about what to expect at 29 weeks pregnant, these FAQs below might help. 

Is my baby fully developed at 29 weeks? 

Your baby has finished most of his/her major development at 29 weeks after conception. 

Is it safe to deliver at 29 weeks?

A baby born 29 weeks into pregnancy has an excellent chance of survival if taken care of by an experienced physician who cares for and treats premature babies. 

When should I pack my hospital bag?

You can start packing your hospital bag between weeks 32 and 36 of your pregnancy. 

How much does my baby weigh at 29 weeks pregnant?

Around 29 weeks, your baby typically weighs between 1.2 and 1.4 kg. These figures can vary, so don’t worry if an ultrasound shows a slightly different number.

What developments are happening with my baby now?

Your baby’s muscles and lungs continue to mature, and their brain is developing rapidly. They may also respond more noticeably to external stimuli like light, sound, or gentle pokes on your belly.

Which pregnancy symptoms might I notice at 29 weeks?

Common symptoms include increasing back or pelvic pain, Braxton Hicks contractions, heartburn, and leg cramps. You might also experience mild swelling in your feet or ankles as your body retains more fluid.

Is further weight gain expected at this stage?

Yes. Most women gain weight steadily throughout the third trimester. Your midwife or doctor can advise you on whether your weight gain is within a healthy range based on your pre-pregnancy weight and overall health.

How can I manage back or pelvic pain at 29 weeks pregnant?

Maintain good posture, consider gentle prenatal exercises like swimming or yoga, and support your bump with a pillow when resting. If pain becomes severe or persistent, contact your healthcare provider.

What about Braxton Hicks contractions?

Braxton Hicks contractions are normal at this point in pregnancy. They tend to be irregular and not too painful. If they become strong, frequent, or follow a regular pattern, consult your midwife or doctor to rule out preterm labour.

How do I handle heartburn or indigestion?

Eating smaller, more frequent meals, avoiding spicy or acidic foods, and not lying down right after eating can help. If you need additional relief, speak to your healthcare provider about safe remedies during pregnancy.

Is it safe to exercise at 29 weeks?

Most women can continue with low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga if there are no complications. Always seek personalised guidance from your midwife or doctor.

Should I be concerned about swelling?

Mild swelling (oedema) in your feet and ankles can be normal. However, if swelling is sudden or severe—especially in your hands or face—or accompanied by headaches or vision changes, seek medical advice, as these could be signs of a more serious condition.

How can I prepare for birth at this stage?

Consider taking antenatal classes, discussing your birth plan with your midwife or doctor, and packing your hospital bag. Learning about pain relief options and baby care can help you feel more prepared for labour and the postnatal period.

When should I contact my healthcare provider?

Any severe pain, heavy bleeding, sudden significant swelling, or changes in baby movements warrant immediate contact with your midwife or doctor. It’s always better to seek professional advice if you feel concerned.

Disclaimer: The information above is for general educational purposes and should not replace personalised medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional about any health concerns or questions related to your pregnancy.