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
- •Eyes can now open and close, and baby is blinking
- •Brain is developing rapidly with new neural connections forming daily
- •Lungs are developing branches of the bronchial tree, though breathing practice is still important
- •Baby can hear and respond to familiar voices and sounds
- •Sleep-wake cycles are becoming more regular and predictable
You this week
- •Increased swelling in feet, ankles, and hands (edema) from fluid retention
- •Braxton Hicks contractions becoming more noticeable and frequent
- •Lower back pain and pelvic discomfort from weight shift and relaxin hormone
- •Shortness of breath as uterus takes up more space
- •Heartburn and indigestion continuing or intensifying
- •Vivid dreams and potential sleep disruptions
This week's tips
- •Elevate your feet whenever possible and reduce salt intake to help manage swelling
- •Practice pelvic floor exercises (Kegels) to strengthen muscles for labor and postpartum recovery
- •Wear supportive, flat shoes and consider a pregnancy pillow to ease back pain at night
- •Stay hydrated—dehydration can worsen Braxton Hicks contractions
- •Start discussing birth preferences and labor plans with your healthcare provider
- •Take a childbirth education class if you haven't already; it's never too early to prepare
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! Soon you'll be in the third trimester, where baby's development will focus on growth and building reserves for life outside the womb. The next few weeks are a great time to finalize your birth plan and start preparing your home for baby's arrival.
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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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