Pregnancy week 27
Week 27 of pregnancy marks the beginning of the third trimester. At barely 2 pounds and 15 inches long, the baby, in week 27of pregnancy, begins to advance the retinol details that will enable sight once it opens it’s eyes at week 28. The growing uterus, the pressure on the organs, and the increasing bulk during these later weeks tend to drain the mother’s energy. The pressure on the mother’s heart can cause excessive perspiration. Moodiness is also a common symptom of week 27. An increase in Braxton hicks contractions is not uncommon for week 27. At this point, a physician might recommend home uterine monitoring, especially if there are signs that point to the risk of preterm labor such as previous preterm births, premature rupture of the membranes, multiple fetuses or even pre-elcampsia. This is also a good time to consider and find out about maternity leave policies at work. During this week, the baby is also acquiring immunities to infections as the mother’s antibodies cross over the placenta. Breastfeeding also increases the baby’s immunities after birth. The uterus continues to climb on the belly and has now reached almost 3 inches from your belly button. The expanding stomach can increase fatigue so it is very important to get enough rest as the pregnancy progresses.
Current guidance (today's medical sources): Week twenty-seven closes the second trimester. The baby has regular sleep and wake cycles, may hiccup, and its brain is developing rapidly. As the third trimester approaches, visits typically become more frequent and attention to the baby's movement patterns grows more important.
Contact your healthcare provider promptly about heavy vaginal bleeding, severe or persistent abdominal pain, a high fever, severe or sudden headache, vision changes, or fainting. Seek urgent care if you are worried — these can be signs that need medical attention.
Sources: NHS — 27 weeks pregnant; Mayo Clinic — Fetal development: The 3rd trimester; ACOG — Special Tests for Monitoring Fetal Health. Informational only. See our sources & medical-review policy.
Frequently asked questions
How many months is 27 weeks pregnant?
Week 27 falls in the second trimester. Pregnancy is usually counted in weeks (about 40 in total) rather than months, because weeks are more precise.
What is happening to the baby at 27 weeks?
The baby has regular sleep cycles, may hiccup, and the brain develops rapidly.
What symptoms are common at week 27?
The end of the second trimester; the third trimester begins next week. Symptoms vary a lot from person to person; discuss anything that worries you with your healthcare provider.
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See the week-by-week guide →Informational only — not medical advice. Pregnancy Week to Week is a general educational reference. It is not a substitute for professional medical care, diagnosis, or treatment. Every pregnancy is different: always consult your doctor, midwife, or other qualified healthcare provider about your own pregnancy, and never disregard or delay professional advice because of something you read here. In an emergency, contact your maternity unit or local emergency number immediately.