Pregnancy Week 27: What to Expect
Baby's development, your body's changes, common symptoms, what to eat, and what to do this week.
Baby's development at week 27
Baby's brain shows REM sleep activity — meaning baby is having dreams. Baby has hiccups regularly (you may feel small, rhythmic jumps in your belly — usually for 1-15 minutes at a time). Baby's lungs continue maturing. Brain activity becomes increasingly complex. Baby's eyes are fully open at times; baby may even respond to bright light shone through your belly.
What's happening in your body
Last week of the second trimester. Your uterus is now about 2.5 inches above the belly button. Bump is very large. Possible carpal tunnel, sciatica, swelling. Possible Braxton Hicks. Sleep is hard. Possible breathlessness as the uterus pushes against the diaphragm.
Common symptoms at week 27
Larger bump. Possible carpal tunnel symptoms. Possible sciatica. Frequent urination. Possible Braxton Hicks. Possible mild breathlessness with activity. Sleep disrupted by frequent peeing and baby movements.
When to call your provider
Decreased fetal movement after established pattern — call provider. Painful regular contractions, bleeding, watery discharge — signs of preterm labor. Severe headache, vision changes.
How to feel better this week
Welcome to the home stretch — third trimester starts next week. If you have travel planned, do it now; most providers limit flying after week 36 (and many airlines have policies). Continue Kegels. Take breaks; rest when you can. Apply belly lotion. Sleep on side. Manage carpal tunnel with wrist braces. Manage sciatica with stretches, pillows between knees.
Nutrition focus for week 27
Continue all nutrients. Iron remains a priority. Add calcium, vitamin D, healthy fats for baby's continued bone and brain development. Stay hydrated.
For your partner
Plan any travel for now. Discuss what the third trimester slowdown will mean for both of you — energy, schedules, social plans.
This week's to-do
Wrap up any travel. Plan third-trimester slowdown.
Is this normal?
Most providers stop allowing flights after weeks 32-36. International airlines vary; check policies. Long road trips also get harder in the third trimester due to back pain and frequent bathroom stops.
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