Day 203 of 280, third trimester
You are 29 weeks exactly
Pregnancy can mean information overload, and it's sometimes hard to know which sources to trust.
77 days until your due date
Women today are overloaded with pregnancy information from newspapers, magazines, books, and the internet, along with photos of glamorous pregnant celebrities who seem not to have a care in the world. Two sources on the same topic may disagree. The internet can be very useful, but you don't know who wrote an article, it may not be by a health professional, and some advice may even contradict standard medical guidance.
So constantly scouring the internet can be confusing and frightening, and articles warning that something you do risks your baby's health can make you feel inadequate. Remind yourself that women have had babies for centuries without the internet! If reading lots makes you feel empowered and better able to make choices, go ahead; if it confuses you, stop. A sensible approach may be to pick just one reliable book or source.
Ask a Doctor
I plan to bottle-feed. What should I buy in advance?
You'll need plastic bottles (nipples included), a sterilizing unit or kit, which often includes everything you need, and your chosen formula. Each comes in many options, so decide what works for you. As you get to know your newborn, you may need to change the nipple type or formula, so don't buy too much before the birth.
Explainer
Reliable information
Use reputable health websites to research your pregnancy, but if too much information makes you anxious or stressed, ask your doctor instead.
Focus on
Nutrition: Immunity-boosting blueberries
A US study found blueberries topped a list of more than 40 fruits for antioxidant activity. They're also a source of fiber, great in pregnancy, especially if you're constipated, and contain nutrients that can prevent or repair damage to the body's cells, which may strengthen your immune system and help you fight infections.
Appointments and key dates around now
- Whooping cough vaccineUsually around 20 weeks, best before 32 weeks
- RSV vaccineFrom 28 weeks
Read the full 29 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.