Pregnancy Week 27 is an important milestone because you are approaching the third trimester. Your baby continues to grow rapidly, while the brain, lungs, nervous system and other organs continue to mature.

Fetal movements may now feel stronger and more coordinated. You may also notice that your growing belly is affecting your sleep, digestion, posture and energy levels.

This is a good time to continue your prenatal care and begin thinking about the practical preparations that will become more important during the final months of pregnancy.

What Happens During Pregnancy Week 27?

During Week 27, your baby continues gaining weight and developing body fat.

The brain is becoming increasingly complex, and the nervous system is helping coordinate movements and responses.

The lungs continue developing, although they are still immature.

Your baby is also becoming increasingly responsive to sounds and other sensory experiences.

How Big Is the Baby at Week 27?

Your baby is approximately the size of a rutabaga, although exact measurements vary.

The baby continues gaining weight and developing more body fat beneath the skin.

Growth will continue throughout the third trimester.

Baby's Movement at Week 27

Your baby's movements may now feel stronger and more recognizable.

You may notice:

Kicks
Punches
Rolling
Stretching
Turning
Hiccups
Short periods of rapid activity

Your baby also has regular periods of rest and sleep.

As you move further into the third trimester, becoming familiar with your baby's usual movement pattern becomes increasingly important.

Baby Hiccups

You may sometimes feel small, repetitive movements in one area of your abdomen.

These may be fetal hiccups.

They can occur as the baby's developing respiratory and nervous systems mature and are generally a normal part of pregnancy.

Baby's Brain Development

The brain continues developing rapidly.

The surface of the brain is becoming more complex, while connections between nerve cells continue increasing.

These developments support movement, sensory processing and other functions.

Brain development continues throughout pregnancy and remains important after birth.

Baby's Hearing

Your baby's hearing continues to mature.

Your baby can hear sounds from inside your body, including your heartbeat.

Sounds from outside the uterus may also be heard.

You can talk, read or sing to your baby if you enjoy doing so. These activities can also provide a relaxing bonding experience for you.

Baby's Eyes

The eyes continue developing during this period.

Your baby's eyelids can open and close, and the structures needed for vision continue maturing.

Although vision is still immature before birth, eye development continues throughout pregnancy.

Baby's Lungs

The lungs continue developing during Week 27.

The structures required for breathing are becoming more mature, but the lungs are still not fully developed.

The third trimester is an important period for continued lung maturation.

Baby's Skin and Body Fat

Your baby's skin is gradually becoming less transparent as more fat develops underneath it.

Body fat will eventually help your baby maintain body temperature after birth.

Vernix caseosa continues providing protection to the skin, while lanugo may still be present.

Pregnancy Symptoms During Week 27

You may experience:

Heartburn
Constipation
Bloating
Back pain
Pelvic pressure
Leg cramps
Increased appetite
Breast tenderness
Increased vaginal discharge
Mild swelling
Difficulty sleeping
Occasional headaches
Shortness of breath

Symptoms vary from woman to woman.

Your Growing Baby Bump

Your uterus continues growing as your baby develops.

Your belly may feel heavier, and some everyday movements may become more difficult.

You may find it helpful to take regular breaks, avoid standing for long periods and use comfortable clothing and footwear.

Back and Pelvic Discomfort

The growing uterus can change your center of gravity and put additional pressure on your back and pelvis.

To improve comfort:

Maintain good posture.
Avoid heavy lifting.
Wear comfortable supportive shoes.
Change positions regularly.
Use pillows while sleeping.
Take gentle walks if appropriate.
Practice pregnancy-safe stretching.

Contact your healthcare provider if you experience severe or persistent pain.

Heartburn During Week 27

Heartburn can become increasingly noticeable during pregnancy.

Helpful habits include:

Eating smaller meals.
Eating slowly.
Avoiding foods that trigger symptoms.
Staying upright after eating.
Avoiding large meals close to bedtime.

Ask your healthcare provider before taking medication for heartburn.

Constipation

Constipation can continue because pregnancy hormones affect digestion.

To support healthy digestion:

Drink enough water.
Eat fruits and vegetables.
Choose whole grains.
Include fiber-rich foods.
Stay active if appropriate.

If constipation is severe or persistent, speak with your healthcare provider.

Leg Cramps and Swelling

Leg cramps may continue during the third trimester.

Gentle stretching and regular movement may help.

Mild swelling of the feet and ankles can also occur.

However, sudden or significant swelling, particularly when accompanied by severe headache, vision changes or upper abdominal pain, requires prompt medical attention.

Breast Changes

Your breasts continue preparing for breastfeeding.

You may notice:

Increased fullness
Tenderness
Darker areolas
More visible veins

A comfortable supportive bra can help reduce discomfort.

Nutrition During Pregnancy Week 27

Good nutrition remains important as your baby enters a period of continued rapid development.

Fruits and Vegetables

Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables every day.

Different colors can help provide a broad range of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients.

Protein

Choose a variety of protein sources, including:

Eggs
Chicken
Lean meat
Beans
Lentils
Tofu
Yogurt
Nuts
Low-mercury fish

Whole Grains

Choose foods such as:

Oats
Brown rice
Quinoa
Whole-wheat bread
Whole-grain cereals

Healthy Fats

Include healthy fats from:

Avocado
Olive oil
Nuts
Seeds
Low-mercury fish

Important Nutrients

Iron

Iron supports the increased blood supply required during pregnancy.

Good sources include lean meat, beans, lentils, leafy green vegetables and fortified cereals.

Calcium

Calcium supports your baby's developing bones and teeth.

Folate

Continue taking folic acid or folate according to your healthcare provider's recommendations.

Iodine

Iodine supports normal thyroid function and fetal development.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D supports healthy bones and calcium absorption.

Your healthcare provider can advise you about the prenatal supplement that is appropriate for your needs.

Staying Hydrated

Drink water regularly throughout the day.

Good hydration supports digestion and circulation and may help reduce constipation.

Keep water available when exercising or during hot weather.

Foods to Avoid

Continue following pregnancy food-safety recommendations.

Avoid:

Alcohol
Raw or undercooked meat
Raw eggs
Unpasteurized dairy products
Raw shellfish
Fish high in mercury

Wash fruits and vegetables carefully before eating.

Caffeine During Pregnancy

A commonly recommended limit is 200 mg of caffeine per day.

Caffeine may come from coffee, tea, chocolate, energy drinks and some medications.

Remember to consider your total daily intake.

Exercise During Week 27

For many women with uncomplicated pregnancies, moderate physical activity can be beneficial.

Suitable activities may include:

Walking
Swimming
Prenatal yoga
Light strength exercises
Gentle stretching

Avoid activities with a high risk of falling or abdominal injury.

Follow your healthcare provider's advice if you have been told to restrict physical activity.

Sleep During Week 27

Sleep may become more difficult as your belly grows.

You can use pillows to support your abdomen, back or legs.

Try to maintain a relaxing bedtime routine and allow enough time for rest.

If persistent sleep problems are affecting your daily life, speak with your healthcare provider.

Prenatal Care

Continue attending your regular prenatal appointments.

Your healthcare provider may monitor:

Blood pressure
Weight
Pregnancy symptoms
Baby's growth
Blood tests
Urine tests
Medications
Prenatal supplements

Depending on your individual circumstances, your healthcare provider may also discuss tests and screenings appropriate for this stage of pregnancy.

Preparing for the Third Trimester

Now that you are approaching or entering the third trimester, you can begin preparing gradually for the baby's arrival.

You may want to:

Review your upcoming prenatal appointments.
Make a list of baby essentials.
Learn about childbirth and newborn care.
Discuss your birth preferences with your healthcare provider.
Organize important documents.
Think about who can support you after birth.
Plan gradually rather than trying to do everything at once.

Emotional Well-Being

Entering the third trimester can bring new emotions.

You may feel excited about meeting your baby but also nervous about childbirth and becoming a parent.

Try to talk openly with people you trust.

Rest when you need to and make time for activities that help you relax.

If persistent anxiety or sadness interferes with your daily life, speak with a healthcare professional.

When Should You Seek Medical Help?

Contact your healthcare provider promptly if you experience:

Heavy vaginal bleeding
Severe abdominal or pelvic pain
Severe persistent one-sided pain
Fainting
Significant dizziness
Fever
Fluid leaking from the vagina
Severe vomiting
Unusual vaginal discharge with a strong odor
Sudden significant swelling
Severe headache
Vision changes
A concerning change or reduction in fetal movement

Do not ignore severe or unusual symptoms during pregnancy.

Pregnancy Week 27 Checklist

Continue your recommended prenatal supplement.
Eat a varied and nutritious diet.
Drink enough water.
Include fiber-rich foods.
Get adequate rest.
Stay physically active if appropriate.
Avoid alcohol and tobacco.
Keep caffeine within recommended limits.
Attend your prenatal appointments.
Discuss upcoming tests with your healthcare provider.
Begin preparing for the third trimester.
Pay attention to your baby's usual movement pattern.
Make time for relaxation and emotional well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

How big is the baby at Week 27?

The baby is approximately the size of a rutabaga, although exact measurements vary.

Can I feel my baby moving at Week 27?

Yes. Most women can feel fetal movement by this stage, and movements may feel stronger and more coordinated.

Can my baby hear me at Week 27?

Your baby's hearing has developed considerably, and sounds from inside and outside your body can reach the baby.

Are fetal hiccups normal?

Fetal hiccups can feel like small, repetitive movements in one area of your abdomen and are generally a normal part of fetal development.

Are the baby's lungs developed at Week 27?

The lungs are continuing to mature but are still developing. Lung maturation continues throughout the third trimester.

What should I eat during Week 27?

Choose a varied diet containing vegetables, fruits, whole grains, protein-rich foods, healthy fats and calcium-rich foods, together with your recommended prenatal supplement.

Conclusion

Pregnancy Week 27 marks an important transition toward the third trimester. Your baby continues gaining weight and developing body fat while the brain, lungs, eyes, hearing and nervous system continue to mature.

Fetal movements may now be stronger and easier to recognize, and you may occasionally notice fetal hiccups.

Your own body is also experiencing increasing physical demands. Heartburn, constipation, back discomfort, leg cramps, swelling, sleep difficulties and mild breathlessness can occur.

Continue focusing on balanced nutrition, hydration, appropriate physical activity, adequate rest and regular prenatal care.

As you move toward the final trimester, gradual preparation for childbirth and your baby's arrival can help you feel more organized.

Every pregnancy is unique. If you experience heavy bleeding, severe pain, significant swelling, severe headache, vision changes, fluid leakage or a concerning change in fetal movement, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

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