Just like every child is different, it is not natural that every pregnancy is different. While some women experience all the symptoms and changes that are associated with pregnancy, such as morning sickness, backaches, food cravings and so on, there are others who see just a few or maybe even none of them. What has some women concerned though is the size of their belly, during the different stages of pregnancy, especially during the later stages. Some women get worried because they feel that their 29 weeks pregnant belly is not as big as it should be.
On the other hand, other women realize that the excessive gain of weight is harmful and worry that their 29 weeks pregnant belly is bigger than normal, which could be an indication of a problem, such as gestational diabetes.
In order to determine what the normal 29 weeks pregnant belly, it is first important to know what the size of an average baby is at that time. Health experts state that at 29 weeks, the average baby is around the size of a squash ball; the approximate length is around 15 inches or so and the weight should be around 3 pounds.
However, this is just a guideline and not all babies are always at the same ideal height, weight and size, in spite of being absolutely normal and healthy. In fact, there are several mothers who feel that they have a 29 weeks pregnant small belly, but have gone on to have average sized or even fairly big babies. This is mainly due to the fact that a lot of the weight gain in most pregnant women takes place only after the 29th week. However, health experts advise women to keep the size of their 29 weeks pregnant belly in mind and ensure that they gain no more than one pound a week thereafter, till the baby is born.
Another aspect of the pregnant belly at 29 weeks is that the uterus is around 3 to 40 inches above the belly button. However, there may also be a few changes in the shape of a 29 weeks pregnant belly, as the body prepares itself for labor and delivery. The belly usually drops, as the baby moves into the birthing position.
There are several women who also have to cope with a 29 weeks pregnant itchy belly, as the skin stretches in that area, mainly to accommodate the baby's growth. Fortunately, it is easy to deal with this comfort, by keeping the belly moisturized and by wearing cool & comfortable clothing.
In case of any severe pain or alarming changes that are seen in a 29 weeks pregnant belly, it is important to consult a doctor immediately.
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