Making Space to Breathe
This week, baby's brain and body are growing quickly — and space inside your body is becoming more limited.
You may notice taking deep breaths feels harder lately. You're not imagining it.
As baby grows upward, your rib cage expands and your diaphragm works differently to accommodate change. Shortness of breath can be surprisingly common.
Baby at Week 29
This week, baby is about the size of a butternut squash and continues growing rapidly. Brain development remains a major focus, and baby is gaining strength, body fat, and coordination in preparation for birth.
Movements may feel strong and frequent as space becomes more limited. Many women notice kicks, stretches, and rolls becoming more noticeable during this stage.
Why You Feel So Different Right Now
As your baby grows upward, the position of your rib cage and diaphragm naturally changes. Your rib cage expands to create more room, while the muscles involved in breathing adapt to the changing demands of pregnancy.
Because of these changes, taking a deep breath may feel different than it used to. Mild shortness of breath can be surprisingly common during the third trimester as your body continues making room for your growing baby.
Different does not always mean dangerous, but it can feel unfamiliar and uncomfortable.
Common During Week 29
Shortness of breath
Rib discomfort or tightness
Changes in breathing patterns
Low back discomfort
Pelvic pressure
Difficulty finding comfortable sleeping positions
Feeling baby move strongly
Fatigue
Small Things That May Help
Place your hands on your ribs and take five slow breaths outward into your sides. Think wide breathing, not just deep breathing.
Encouraging rib cage expansion can help improve awareness of your breathing muscles and may help everyday movement feel more comfortable.
Support During Pregnancy
Pregnancy-focused physical therapy is not only for pain. Many women benefit from support with posture, breathing mechanics, movement strategies, pelvic floor awareness, and overall comfort as pregnancy progresses.
Follow Along With Our Pelvic Health PT
If you'd like guided support for this week's movement and breathing strategies, you can follow along with our short therapist-led video here.
Your Body Is Adapting Beautifully
Small adjustments in breathing and posture can sometimes make everyday movement feel easier.
Your body is constantly adapting to create space, support growth, and meet the demands of pregnancy. Even when things feel unfamiliar, those changes often reflect your body's remarkable ability to adjust.
Your body is adapting beautifully — even when it feels unfamiliar.
From Your Modern Woman Care Provider