Third trimester and Garbh Sanskar

Weeks 28–40: growing and preparing. Baby recognises your voice and gains strength. Calm breathing, stories of courage and deep rest prepare mother and baby for birth.

Week by week

• Week 28 — size of a brinjal (eggplant)

  Baby can blink and may dream during REM sleep. Third trimester begins.

• Week 29 — size of a butternut squash

  Muscles and lungs keep maturing. Baby's kicks feel strong and purposeful.

• Week 30 — size of a large cabbage

  The brain develops its folds and grooves. Baby gains weight steadily.

• Week 31 — size of a coconut

  All five senses are working. Baby turns toward sound and light.

• Week 32 — size of a pineapple

  Baby practises breathing movements. Toenails and fingernails are complete.

• Week 33 — size of a cantaloupe

  Bones harden while the skull stays flexible for birth. Baby recognises your voice.

• Week 34 — size of a honeydew melon

  The central nervous system and lungs continue to mature.

• Week 35 — size of a small pumpkin

  Kidneys are fully developed. Space is tight, so movements feel like rolls and stretches.

• Week 36 — size of a bunch of bananas

  Baby may settle head-down. Fat fills out cheeks and limbs.

• Week 37 — size of a winter melon

  Baby is considered early term. Practising sucking, breathing and grasping.

• Week 38 — size of a small watermelon

  Organs are ready for life outside. Baby keeps adding fat to stay warm.

• Week 39 — size of a pumpkin

  Full term. Brain and lungs continue to refine.

• Week 40 — size of a watermelon

  Your due date. Baby is ready to meet you — any day now.