Week 27 of Pregnancy
Your baby is about the size of a head of lettuce
Your Baby This Week
Development milestones for week 27
At 27 weeks pregnant, you have reached the end of your second trimester - congratulations! Your baby is about the size of a head of lettuce, measuring approximately 14.5 inches long and weighing about 2 pounds. Your baby's sleep and wake cycles are now well-established, and you can probably predict when they will be most active. The brain is developing rapidly, with the characteristic wrinkles and grooves forming on its surface. Your baby can now recognize your voice and may respond with movement when you speak or sing. The lungs continue to mature, though they are not yet ready for breathing air. Your baby is practicing breathing movements regularly, which strengthens the respiratory muscles. Taste preferences are forming based on what you eat - studies suggest babies can develop preferences for flavors they experience in the womb.
Your Body This Week
Changes you may experience
As you transition from the second to third trimester at 27 weeks pregnant, you might notice the return of some first-trimester symptoms. Fatigue often comes back as your body works harder to support your growing baby. Sleep may be increasingly disrupted by bathroom trips, discomfort, and your active baby. Your belly has shifted your center of gravity significantly, and you might feel off-balance at times. Leg cramps, heartburn, and shortness of breath continue. Braxton Hicks contractions may be more noticeable and frequent. Some women experience insomnia during the third trimester, feeling exhausted but unable to sleep. This can be caused by physical discomfort, anxiety about the upcoming birth, or simply hormones. Try to rest when you can, even if sleep is elusive.
Tips & Advice for Week 27
Practical guidance from real moms
As you enter the third trimester, it is a good time to start thinking about your birth plan and discussing your preferences with your provider. Consider what pain management options you want available, who you want in the room, and any specific wishes for labor and delivery. Remember that birth plans often need to be flexible. Schedule a hospital or birth center tour if you have not already - seeing where you will deliver can help reduce anxiety. Start practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing, which can be helpful during labor. Many women find guided meditations or hypnobirthing techniques useful. Begin setting up the nursery and washing baby clothes in gentle, fragrance-free detergent.
Medical Guidance for Week 27
What to discuss with your healthcare provider
As you enter the third trimester, your prenatal visits will likely increase to every two weeks. Your provider will monitor your blood pressure, weight, fundal height, and baby's heart rate at each appointment. If you are Rh-negative, you should receive your RhoGAM injection around now if you have not already. Discuss the signs of preterm labor: regular contractions (more than four per hour), pelvic pressure, low back pain, or changes in vaginal discharge. Know when to call your provider versus when to go to the hospital.
Disclaimer: For educational purposes only. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.