Pregnancy Week 27
Welcome to the third trimester! Your baby is growing stronger and continuing to mature rapidly. The brain, lungs, and nervous system are developing, movements are becoming stronger, and your body is preparing for the final stage of pregnancy.
Your Baby This Week
Welcome to the Third Trimester
Week 27 marks the beginning of the third trimester in the pregnancy timeline used on this website.
Your baby continues to grow and mature rapidly as the final weeks of pregnancy approach. The brain, lungs, nervous system, and other organs will continue developing throughout the third trimester.
Brain & Nervous System
Your baby’s brain continues developing rapidly. The nervous system is becoming increasingly organized and is helping your baby coordinate movements and respond to different sensations.
Brain development will continue throughout the remainder of pregnancy and after birth.
Developing Lungs
The lungs continue maturing and preparing for breathing after birth. The airways and tiny structures inside the lungs continue developing, while surfactant production increases.
The lungs are still immature and need additional time to develop.
Stronger Movements
Your baby is becoming stronger and more active. Kicks, stretches, rolls, and other movements may become easier to recognize.
Your baby also has periods of activity and rest, although these may not match your own sleep schedule.
Welcome to the Third Trimester
Your baby is about the size of a rutabaga. The brain, lungs, and nervous system continue maturing as your baby grows stronger and prepares for the final weeks of pregnancy.
Your Body This Week
Entering the third trimester brings new physical changes as your baby continues growing.
Growing Belly
Your uterus continues expanding, and your growing belly may affect your posture, balance, and comfort.
Stronger Baby Movements
You may notice your baby's kicks and movements becoming more pronounced. Your baby's activity may vary throughout the day.
Back & Pelvic Discomfort
The growing uterus and changes in your center of gravity can contribute to lower-back, hip, or pelvic discomfort.
Braxton Hicks Contractions
You may experience occasional irregular tightening of the uterus known as Braxton Hicks contractions. These contractions are generally irregular and do not progressively become stronger or closer together like true labor contractions.
Tips for week 27
- Continue taking your prenatal vitamin every day.
- Eat a varied and balanced diet.
- Include protein rich foods in your meals.
- Choose iron rich foods regularly.
- Include calcium-rich foods to support your baby's developing bones.
- Include healthy sources of omega-3 fatty acids.
- Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Continue pregnancy-safe physical activity if approved by your healthcare professional.
- Use supportive pillows to improve sleeping comfort.
- Rest when you feel tired.
- Avoid alcohol, smoking, and recreational drugs.
- Limit caffeine to 200 mg or less per day during pregnancy.
- Keep your prenatal appointments and recommended screenings.
- Ask your healthcare professional about any tests or vaccinations recommended during the third trimester.
Nutrition This Week
Although pregnancy has not yet begun, this is the perfect time to prepare your body for a healthy pregnancy. Eating a balanced diet now helps support ovulation, hormone production, and overall reproductive health.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Iron Rich Foods
Calcium Sources
Protein Rich Foods
Folate Rich Foods
Healthy Fats
Fruits & Vegetables
Whole Grains
Stay Hydrated
Nutrition Tip
Focus on nutrient-dense meals as you enter the third trimester. Combine protein, vegetables or fruit, whole grains, and healthy fats to create balanced meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Week 27 the beginning of the third trimester?
Yes. For the pregnancy timeline used on this website, the third trimester begins at Week 27 and continues through Week 40.
How big is my baby at Week 27?
Your baby is approximately the size of a rutabaga. Exact measurements vary depending on the timing of development.
What is developing during Week 27?
Your baby’s brain, nervous system, lungs, and muscles continue developing. Your baby is also gaining more weight and becoming stronger.
Can my baby hear me at Week 27?
Yes. Your baby’s hearing is increasingly developed, and your baby can detect sounds from inside and outside the womb.
Are my baby's movements supposed to be stronger?
As your baby grows and becomes stronger, movements may become easier to recognize. You may notice kicks, stretches, rolls, and periods of activity.
What are Braxton Hicks contractions?
Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular tightenings of the uterus that can occur during pregnancy. They generally do not follow a regular pattern and often ease with rest or a change in activity.
When should I contact my healthcare professional?
Contact your healthcare professional promptly if you experience regular or painful contractions, vaginal bleeding, leaking fluid, significant pelvic pressure, severe pain, or a noticeable change in your baby’s usual movement pattern.
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