Day 201 of 280, third trimester
You are 28 weeks and 5 days
Breastfeeding may be natural, but it can be tricky to start, so try a class or two now while you have time.
79 days until your due date
There's a lot of pressure on women to breastfeed, because it has health benefits for you and your baby and helps with bonding. People may already be asking whether you plan to, and it's reasonable not to know yet; you haven't tried!
Most women want to try, but some feel uncomfortable with the idea, especially in public. There's likely to be a lactation consultant at the hospital, or you may be able to hire one, and in some areas you can take classes in pregnancy covering the benefits of breastfeeding and how to position your baby so you're both comfortable and the baby is latched on.
The expectation is that because it's natural it's easy, but until you get the hang of it, it can be harder. Ask your delivery nurse to show you how to position your baby, and above all keep an open mind and give it a try. Once established, breastfeeding benefits your baby's health, is great for your figure, and is a wonderful way to be close to your baby.
Talk to pregnant friends about breastfeeding now so you can support each other later, and involve your partner too; research shows partners who know the benefits are more supportive.
Focus on
Nutrition: Cultured foods
Probiotic foods, such as some yogurts, miso (a Japanese paste often used in soups), and some juices and soy products, contain enzymes and bacteria that help you digest food and build up friendly bacteria in your gut. If your digestion is sluggish and constipation is a problem, ask your doctor whether eating more probiotic foods could help.
The lowdown
On leakages
Some pregnant women leak a little breast milk, perhaps when their breasts are massaged or sexually stimulated, and sometimes for no obvious reason. Some discharge shows things are working properly, but women who don't leak are perfectly able to produce milk for their baby.
Appointments and key dates around now
- Whooping cough vaccineUsually around 20 weeks, best before 32 weeks
- RSV vaccineFrom 28 weeks
Read the full 28 weeks pregnant guide
This is general information based on NHS guidance, not medical advice, and every pregnancy is different. Talk to your midwife or GP about anything that worries you. If your baby's movements slow down or change, or you have bleeding, severe pain or leaking fluid, call your maternity unit straight away. In an emergency, call 999.