The third trimester approaches as brain tissue grows rapidly
Baby this week: about 35.6 cm — head to heel · about 875 g
≈ 35.6 cm — about the size of an eggplant
Illustration enlarged for clarity — the amber marker shows true relative size
Your baby this week
- Brain tissue is growing quickly, and brain activity is increasing
- The fetus has regular sleep and wake cycles now
- Hiccups are common and may be felt as small rhythmic jumps
- The lungs, while still immature, are steadily developing toward being ready for air
Your body this week
- This week typically marks the end of the second trimester
- Rib discomfort can start as the uterus pushes upward
This week's tip: Shifting position or taking a few slow, deep breaths can sometimes ease rib discomfort caused by the growing uterus.
When to get help now
Contact your maternity unit now, even at night, if your baby is moving less than usual or the pattern has changed, you have any vaginal bleeding, fluid leaks from your vagina, you have regular or painful contractions before 37 weeks, or you have a severe headache, vision changes, pain just below the ribs or sudden swelling of the face, hands or feet. Do not wait until the next day.
Sizes and milestones are typical ranges — every pregnancy runs on its own clock. Educational content; your prenatal care team's guidance always comes first.