Key points
- Count kicks daily: you should feel 10 movements within 2 hours.
- Tdap is recommended in every pregnancy between 27 and 36 weeks.
- If your blood type is Rh negative, you will receive RhoGAM at about 28 weeks.
- Pack your hospital bag by 35–36 weeks.
How do I do kick counts?
Once a day, at a time your baby is usually active (often after a meal), lie on your side or sit comfortably and count movements — kicks, rolls or flutters. You should feel 10 movements within 2 hours; most babies reach this much sooner. If you do not, or if your baby is moving less than usual, go to Labor & Delivery right away. Do not wait until the next day. Fetal movement at 28 weeks.
What are Braxton Hicks contractions?
These are “practice” contractions: your belly tightens, then relaxes. They are usually irregular, not very painful, and ease with rest. Common triggers include dehydration, a full bladder, activity and sex. To ease them:
- Drink more water.
- Rest, lie on your left side, or change position.
- Empty your bladder.
- If sex triggers them, take a break from it.
Before 37 weeks, get checked if you have more than 4–6 contractions in an hour, contractions that get stronger or closer together, pelvic pressure, low back pain, or any fluid or bleeding. Preterm labor or Braxton Hicks?
Why is my heartburn worse?
Your growing uterus pushes up on your stomach. The same tips help: small, frequent meals, no eating 2–3 hours before bed, avoiding greasy and spicy foods, raising the head of the bed, and Tums (up to 6 tablets a day). Tell us if heartburn is severe or comes with pain under your right ribs, headache or vision changes — these can be signs of preeclampsia.
What blood work is done now?
The glucose screen (if not done yet), a blood count to check for anemia, and, when indicated, repeat tests for syphilis and HIV. If you have anemia, we may increase your iron.
Which vaccines do I need?
- Tdap (whooping cough): recommended in every pregnancy between 27 and 36 weeks; we usually give it around 28–32 weeks. Your antibodies pass to your baby and protect them in the first months, before they can be vaccinated.
- RSV vaccine (Abrysvo): recommended between 32 and 36 weeks if your due date falls in RSV season (September through January). Alternatively, your baby can receive an RSV antibody shot after birth. We will help you decide.
- Flu and COVID-19: recommended at any point in pregnancy if you have not had them.
What if my blood type is Rh negative?
You will receive a RhoGAM (Rh immune globulin) shot at about 28 weeks, and again after delivery if your baby is Rh positive. It prevents your body from making antibodies that could harm a future pregnancy. You also need it after any bleeding, a fall or an abdominal injury — call us if these happen.
What should I pack for the hospital?
Pack your bag by 35–36 weeks.
- For you: photo ID, insurance card, phone and long charger, comfortable robe or gown, nursing bras, maternity underwear, slippers and socks, toiletries, lip balm, glasses, a going-home outfit
- For baby: rear-facing car seat (installed before delivery — required to go home), going-home outfit, swaddle blanket, hat
- For your support person: snacks, a change of clothes, a pillow
- Helpful extras: your birth preferences, a nursing pillow, your pediatrician’s name and phone number
How should I sleep now?
Sleep on your side (either side is fine). Pillows behind your back can keep you from rolling flat. If you wake up on your back, just turn to your side.
Next visit: In 2–4 weeks; from here, visits become more frequent.
Go to Labor & Delivery right away for heavy vaginal bleeding, leaking fluid, decreased fetal movement, severe headache or vision changes, severe abdominal pain, or regular contractions before 37 weeks. Do not wait for a callback. HCA Florida University Hospital Labor & Delivery, 3476 S University Dr, Davie, FL 33328 · 954-475-5758. In an emergency, call 911. When to call or go to the hospital.
Important: This information is general education about a typical pregnancy. It is not medical advice and may not apply to you. Every patient’s care is personalized to her own health history, test results and needs, so your plan may differ from what is described here. Always follow the instructions your doctor gives you. Questions? Call Davie ObGyn at 954-880-1010. Do not use a routine online message for urgent symptoms.
Medically reviewed by Rahil Malik, MD, FACOG, board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist. Last reviewed: October 7, 2026. Content follows current recommendations of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). This page is general information and does not replace a visit with your doctor.