Week 27 of Pregnancy
Second trimester
For informational purposes only. This page is not medical advice. Every pregnancy is different — always consult your doctor, midwife, or healthcare provider for guidance specific to your situation. In an emergency, call your provider or 911 immediately.
Baby is
about the size of a head of cauliflower
14.4 inches · 1.9 lbs
Baby this week
- •Eyes can open and close, and baby is developing a sleep-wake cycle
- •Brain is developing rapidly with more defined brain wave patterns
- •Lungs are producing surfactant, a substance that will help baby breathe after birth
- •Baby can hear and recognize your voice more clearly now
- •Fat deposits are increasing to help regulate body temperature
You this week
- •Increased swelling in feet, ankles, and hands due to fluid retention
- •Braxton Hicks contractions becoming more noticeable
- •Shortness of breath as the uterus presses on your diaphragm
- •Trouble finding comfortable sleeping positions
- •Possible lower back pain from pregnancy weight and posture changes
- •Vivid dreams and interrupted sleep
This week's tips
- •Schedule your glucose screening test (gestational diabetes screening) if you haven't already—this is typically done between weeks 24-28
- •Elevate your feet when resting to help reduce swelling; avoid standing for long periods
- •Practice relaxation techniques like prenatal yoga or deep breathing to manage Braxton Hicks contractions
- •Sleep on your left side with a pregnancy pillow to improve circulation and reduce swelling
- •Stay hydrated—dehydration can worsen swelling and Braxton Hicks contractions
- •Begin discussing birth plans and preferences with your healthcare provider
Informational only — always check with your doctor or midwife for advice specific to you and your baby.
Looking ahead
You're entering the home stretch of your second trimester. Over the next few weeks, baby's lungs and brain will continue developing rapidly, and you may start thinking more concretely about labor, delivery, and how you want to bring your baby into the world.
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For informational purposes only. This page is not medical advice. Every pregnancy is different — always consult your doctor, midwife, or healthcare provider for guidance specific to your situation. In an emergency, call your provider or 911 immediately.
This content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Every pregnancy and baby is different. Always consult your doctor, midwife, or pediatrician for guidance specific to your situation.
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