Essential Guide for Dads-to-Be | What to Know During Weeks 28-31

As your partner enters week 28, she’s now in the third trimester, and your baby is growing rapidly. This stage brings new physical changes and discomforts, so your support is more important than ever. You might feel like there’s little you can do, but by learning more about pregnancy and offering your encouragement, you can help her manage the challenges ahead.

In this edition of "Essential Guide for Dads-to-Be," we’ll cover key things to focus on in the coming weeks and the changes you might notice in both your partner and baby. Let’s make the most of these final months of pregnancy together.

Key Prenatal Checkup: Growth Scan

Between weeks 29 and 32, your partner will undergo another important ultrasound, the growth scan. This checkup serves as a follow-up to the anatomy scan and ensures that your baby is growing properly. The ultrasound will check for any abnormalities, including issues like an incorrect position (breech or transverse) or umbilical cord complications.

This scan is just as important as the earlier one since the baby is continually developing, and certain conditions may only be detected as the pregnancy progresses. Be sure to remind her to attend this appointment on time.

Understanding Breech Position

During this checkup, you may hear that your baby is in a breech position, meaning the baby’s head is not pointing down toward the birth canal. The head-down position, or cephalic, is ideal for a vaginal birth, while breech and transverse positions can make delivery more challenging.

However, it’s too early to worry. Babies have plenty of room to move before week 30, and there’s a good chance your baby will turn on their own. If the baby is still in a breech position after week 30, the doctor may recommend exercises or medical techniques to encourage the baby to turn.

Monitoring Baby’s Growth

The baby’s size is another factor that determines the delivery method. A larger baby might increase the likelihood of a C-section, so it’s important to help your partner manage her diet and exercise. Encourage her to eat small, frequent meals and to engage in light activities like walking or yoga for 30-60 minutes daily.

At the same time, it’s important that the baby isn’t too small. Make sure your partner is eating enough protein-rich foods like lean meats, eggs, and milk to support healthy growth.

Common Pregnancy Symptoms

Pelvic Pain

As your partner’s body prepares for labor, she might experience pelvic pain, also known as pubic symphysis pain. This pain can radiate to her lower back, thighs, and hips, making it difficult to walk or change positions.

The discomfort is caused by the loosening of ligaments in her pelvis, which helps prepare for childbirth. You can assist by encouraging her to rest, avoid lifting heavy objects, and stay mindful of her movements. If the pain becomes severe, it’s important to consult a doctor.

Braxton Hicks Contractions

By week 28, your partner may start to feel Braxton Hicks contractions—painless, irregular contractions that cause her belly to tighten briefly. These are practice contractions, preparing her uterus for labor.

While Braxton Hicks contractions are normal, it’s essential to track them. If they become regular—occurring every 5-6 minutes and lasting 30-40 seconds—it could be a sign of early labor, and you’ll need to take her to the hospital right away.

Important Things to Consider

Packing the Hospital Bag

Has your partner started preparing her hospital bag yet? Your involvement here is key, as you’ll likely be her main support person in the delivery room. Nurses may ask for things from the bag, and knowing what’s inside and how to access it can prevent unnecessary stress.

The essentials include personal hygiene products like maternity pads, nursing bras, and toiletries. Don’t forget comfortable clothing for both mom and baby. For the baby, pack items like diapers, wipes, lotion, and blankets. If you’re unsure about certain items, like formula or a breast pump, call the hospital in advance to ask what’s allowed.

Recognizing Signs of Preterm Labor

One of the biggest concerns at this stage is preterm labor. Be on the lookout for signs like frequent cramps, vaginal bleeding, or leaking fluid (which could indicate her water has broken).

If these symptoms occur, stay calm and get your partner to the hospital as soon as possible. It’s important to remain level-headed and offer her reassurance, as your emotional support can greatly impact her mental state and the baby’s health.

Staying Involved

Throughout the pregnancy, your partner will likely receive a lot of attention and care, and you might feel sidelined at times. Don’t let this discourage you. Take an active role in her care by attending checkups, helping her stay active, and learning about pregnancy and childbirth together. The more you engage, the more connected you’ll feel to both her and your baby.