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Pregnancy Guide/Third Trimester/Week 28

Week 28: Dad's Guide

Third Trimester • Baby is the size of a a pair of work boots

Week 28 of 4070% there

👶 Baby Update

Size: A pair of work boots

Welcome to the third trimester — the home stretch! Baby's brain is developing billions of neurons. Eyes can track a light source. REM sleep is happening regularly. Baby is about 2.5 pounds and 15 inches.

💕 What She's Going Through

Shortness of breath increasing. Braxton Hicks more frequent. Sleep is becoming really difficult. She may notice baby's sleep/wake patterns. Anxiety about labor may start.

💪 What You Should Do This Week

  • Start packing the hospital bags — both hers AND yours (our guide: dadchoice.com/guides/hospital-bag-dad)
  • Know the signs of preterm labor — regular contractions, back pain, pressure
  • Install the car seat. Not next month. NOW.

🚫 Don't Say This

We still have 3 months.

12 weeks sounds like forever until it's not. Things come early sometimes. Be ready.

🛒 Gear Tip

Install the car seat and get it checked at a fire station. Don't wing it.

🧠 Dad Hack

Practice the car seat install 3 times. The first time at the hospital with a newborn and zero sleep should NOT be your first attempt.

Ready to gear up?

Our interactive checklist tracks everything you need.

Baby Gear Checklist →