Fatigue returning, stronger baby movements, and more bathroom trips.
You’re 27 weeks pregnant! This marks the final week of your second trimester, and you’re about to enter the third trimester. Your baby is growing rapidly, moving more, and continuing to develop essential organs. Your belly is expanding, and new pregnancy symptoms may appear.
Let’s explore your baby’s development, changes in your body, and how to manage symptoms at 27 weeks pregnant.
What’s Happening to Your Baby?
At 27 weeks, your baby is about the size of a head of lettuce (24-26 cm or 10-11 inches long, head to toe) and weighs around 900-1,000 grams (2-2.2 lbs). Your little one is becoming more active, practicing breathing, and preparing for life outside the womb.
Major Developments This Week:
Brain Activity Is Increasing! – Baby’s brain is more active, and brain tissue is developing rapidly.
Baby’s Lungs Are Practicing Breathing! – Baby inhales and exhales amniotic fluid to prepare for breathing air.
Eyes Are Opening & Reacting to Light! – Baby’s eyelids can open, and they can detect bright lights.
Hearing Is Fully Developed! – Baby can recognize voices and may respond to music or sounds.
Movements Are Stronger & More Frequent! – Kicks, jabs, and stretches are noticeable, and baby may have a regular activity schedule.
Hiccups May Happen Often! – You may feel rhythmic movements when baby has hiccups.
More Fat Is Developing! – Baby’s skin is becoming less wrinkled as fat stores increase.
What’s Happening to Your Body?
At 27 weeks pregnant, you may notice more intense baby movements, a growing belly, and some new pregnancy symptoms.
Common Symptoms at 27 Weeks Pregnant:
Feeling Stronger Baby Kicks! – Baby’s movements are stronger and may follow a pattern.
Growing Baby Bump! – Your uterus is now about the size of a basketball.
Back Pain – Your growing belly shifts your posture, leading to discomfort.
Round Ligament Pain – Stretching or pulling pain in the lower belly as your uterus expands.
Leg Cramps – More pressure on your legs and mineral imbalances can lead to cramps, especially at night.
Swelling in Feet & Ankles (Edema) – Fluid retention may cause mild swelling.
Shortness of Breath – Your uterus is pressing on your lungs, making deep breaths harder.
Braxton Hicks Contractions – Mild, irregular “practice” contractions may happen more often.
Heartburn & Indigestion – Hormonal changes slow digestion, leading to acid reflux.
Frequent Urination – Your growing uterus is pressing on your bladder.
Fatigue – You may feel more tired as your body works harder to support baby.
Forgetfulness or “Pregnancy Brain” – Hormonal shifts may affect memory and concentration.
How to Cope with Week 27 Pregnancy Symptoms
1. Tracking Baby’s Movements
Movements should be regular and noticeable throughout the day.
If movements slow down significantly, contact your doctor.
Encourage movement by drinking cold water or gently poking your belly.
2. Easing Back Pain
Maintain good posture and avoid slouching.
Use a pregnancy pillow for support while sleeping.
Do gentle stretches or prenatal yoga to ease back pain.
3. Preventing Leg Cramps
Stretch your legs before bed to reduce cramping.
Eat calcium and magnesium-rich foods like dairy, bananas, and nuts.
Massage your legs or apply heat if cramps occur.
4. Handling Round Ligament Pain
Stretch gently or try prenatal yoga to relieve tension.
Change positions slowly to avoid sudden discomfort.
Use a belly band for extra support if needed.
5. Reducing Swelling in Feet & Ankles
Elevate your feet when sitting or lying down.
Wear comfortable shoes and avoid tight socks.
Drink plenty of water to reduce water retention.
6. Reducing Shortness of Breath
Sit and stand up straight to give your lungs more space.
Take deep breaths and slow down when needed.
Sleep with extra pillows to elevate your upper body.
7. Managing Braxton Hicks Contractions
Stay hydrated – Dehydration can trigger contractions.
Change positions – Moving around or resting may help them go away.
Contact your doctor if contractions become painful or regular.
8. Preventing & Soothing Stretch Marks
Use a gentle moisturizer to keep skin hydrated.
Wear loose, breathable clothing to reduce irritation.
Drink plenty of water to support skin health.
9. Dealing with Pregnancy Brain (Forgetfulness)
Write things down – Make lists or use reminders on your phone.
Get enough rest – Fatigue can make memory problems worse.
Stay organized – Keep important items in the same place.
What Should You Be Doing in Week 27?
Since you’re about to enter the third trimester, here’s what to focus on this week:
1. Keep Attending Prenatal Appointments
Your doctor will check your uterus size, baby’s heartbeat, and overall health.
If you haven’t done your glucose screening test for gestational diabetes, it’s usually done between 24-28 weeks.
2. Keep Taking Your Prenatal Vitamins
Ensure your vitamin contains 400-800 mcg folic acid for brain and spinal cord development.
A vitamin with DHA & Omega-3s supports baby’s brain growth.
3. Eat a Healthy Pregnancy Diet
Include protein-rich foods like eggs, chicken, and tofu.
Eat calcium-rich foods like yogurt, milk, and cheese.
Stay hydrated – Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily.
4. Track Your Baby’s Movements
Start noticing baby’s movement patterns throughout the day.
Movements will become stronger and more predictable in the coming weeks.
5. Research Childbirth & Parenting Classes
Consider signing up for prenatal classes about labor, delivery, and newborn care.
Some hospitals offer virtual or in-person classes.
6. Plan for Maternity Leave
Look into your workplace’s maternity leave policies and benefits.
If you plan to return to work after birth, start thinking about childcare options.
Final Thoughts
You’re 27 weeks pregnant, and your baby is getting bigger, stronger, and more active! This is an exciting time, especially as you feel more movement and prepare for upcoming prenatal visits.
Your baby is developing tiny features, reacting to sound, and preparing for big growth ahead. Symptoms like back pain, heartburn, and leg cramps may still happen, but you’re doing an amazing job!
