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
14.5 inches · 1.9 lbs
Baby this week
- •Brain development accelerates rapidly with increased neural connections
- •Eyes can open and close, and baby may respond to light
- •Lungs are developing surfactant, a substance needed for breathing after birth
- •Baby can hear and recognize your voice and may respond to sounds
You this week
- •Increased back pain as your center of gravity shifts
- •Leg cramps, especially at night
- •Restless leg syndrome or trouble sleeping
- •Braxton Hicks contractions becoming more noticeable
- •Shortness of breath as baby takes up more space
- •Swelling in hands, feet, and ankles
- •Frequent urination continues
This week's tips
- •Start prenatal classes if you haven't already—learning breathing and relaxation techniques helps with labor and everyday stress
- •Invest in a pregnancy pillow to support your back and hips while sleeping
- •Take warm (not hot) baths to ease muscle tension and back pain
- •Wear supportive, flat shoes to reduce strain on your back and feet
- •Stay hydrated and maintain regular movement to help with circulation and reduce swelling
- •Consider talking to your healthcare provider about safe stretching or prenatal yoga
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, you'll likely notice baby's movements become even stronger and more distinct—and you may start feeling them in new positions as baby grows and has less room to float around.
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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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