28 Weeks Pregnant

Thinking about baby names? Here at BabyZone we take baby naming seriously. Check out our baby name finder!

Added baby weight is taking its toll on your body. Chances are you're feeling aches and pains all over! Your feet, ankles, and hands may be swollen. Cramps may cause intense pain in your legs, especially at night, and it may be hard to find a comfortable sleeping position. You may also be experiencing false contractions (called Braxton Hicks) where your abdomen tightens, then relaxes. Hang in there—you're getting closer to your due date!

Your uterus is around three inches above your navel. If you are Rh negative, you'll be getting a RhoGam injection right around now. And those tightening sensations? Braxton Hicks "practice" contractions.

Choosing Your Baby's Name
You are only a few weeks away from the big day. Have you been mulling over what you're going to name your new addition? No doubt friends and relatives have been offering subtle—and sometimes not so subtle—suggestions, but when it comes to choosing a name for your baby you should take your time. Enjoy the process! Here are a few ways to track down original, meaningful, and timeless names:

Look to the government: There's an easy way to figure out what the most popular baby names are—ask the government. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has been tracking baby names since the 1880s. The SSA's handy website allows you to search how popular your baby's potential name may be. For instance, in the 1880s the most commonly used names were John and Mary. Contrast that with the 2000s where Jacob prevailed for boys and Emily for girls. Use this site to search names nationally or within your state. You can even find out the most popular names for twins.

Search your family genealogy: Looking for something more personal then the top 20 name choices for a given year? Consider a family name. Nothing will endear your grandmother to your newborn more than using her name for your new little one. You don't need to stop with familiar relatives, either; explore your family history and you may dig up stories of pioneers, cowboys, generals, maybe even a gypsy or two. These names can give your child a connection to your family beyond his genes.

Consider favorite characters: Favorite books, television shows, rock bands, and movies can also be sources for names. You might want to pass on Han Solo, but Luke (minus the Skywalker) might be your way to pay tribute to your favorite film. Jane Austen fan? Consider using a character's name from one of Austen's books for your own baby.

Agreeing on a Name
It can be hard to decide on a name. You and your partner may struggle to come up with that perfect choice. Instead of settling on one name, try making a list of names instead. Many couples wait until their baby is born before they decide, while others are naming their baby-to-be in utero. Whether you select a name before or after your baby arrives, don't be surprised if friends and relatives don't agree with your choice (unless, of course, you name the baby after one of them!).

Making Your Baby's Name Permanent
After your baby's birth, the hospital will give you several documents to fill out that will declare, amongst other things, your child's name. You'll be asked to provide your baby's name for a birth certificate and to submit paperwork toward obtaining your newborn's Social Security card. While your baby isn't required to have a Social Security number, it's much easier to get one by filing the information at the hospital versus waiting—the process can take much longer if you apply at a local Social Security office. Your child's social security card won't cost you anything and will be mailed to your home address a few weeks after you turn in the paperwork.

Once you have your child's social security card, make sure to keep the number private. Thieves can steal your baby's identity if they get their hands on your child's number. Keep the card in a safe at home versus carrying it in your wallet.