You and Your Baby at Week 27 of Your Pregnancy
Lucy Woodbridge
Reading Time: | Word Count:
How Big is Baby at 27 Weeks?
At 27 weeks, your baby will be about as big as a head of cauliflower, measuring approximately 36.6cm from head to heel and weighing around 1.9 pounds, or 860g. However, these measurements can vary.
The lungs are also progressing, preparing for breathing outside the womb. Although they are not fully mature, the baby begins to practice breathing movements. In fact, all the organs are in the process of maturing, and getting ready for life in the outside world.
Your baby is also putting on weight every day. No longer looking like a wrinkled prune, the skin is being filled out by fat.
The baby’s senses are becoming more refined. The eyes can now open and close, and they are sensitive to light. The sense of hearing is also developing, and the baby can hear your voice, heartbeat, and even external sounds. The brain is continuing to grow and develop rapidly.
Movements become more pronounced at this stage. You might feel kicks, jabs, and rolls more frequently. These movements are essential indicators of the baby’s well-being and activity.
Physical Changes to Your Body at 27 Weeks
As you enter the third trimester, your body continues to adapt to accommodate the growing baby. By the 27th week, you would likely have gained 1 to 2 stone, though this can vary based on your pre-pregnancy weight and other factors.
Your uterus is now about the size of a basketball, and this expansion can lead to visible changes like stretch marks and an enlarging bump.
Hormonal Changes
Hormonal fluctuations continue to play a significant role. Increased levels of hormones like oestrogen, progesterone, and relaxin lead to various physical and emotional changes. These hormones prepare your body for childbirth and breastfeeding but can also contribute to symptoms like mood swings and discomfort.
Pregnancy Symptoms at Week 27
Common Symptoms
During the 27th week, you may experience a range of symptoms, including:
- Tiredness: Take frequent naps whenever you can.
- Round Ligament Pains: Due to your expanding uterus, you will experience pains on the sides of your bump.
- Loose Hips: As you have been gaining weight, your ligaments will be loosening off in preparation for giving birth. This will give you some pain in your hips. Be careful as you move around.
- Lapses in Concentration and Loss of Memory: These are caused by hormonal changes and also having lots on your mind.
- Backaches: As your belly grows, it puts more strain on your back, leading to discomfort.
- Leg Cramps: These are common in the second and third trimesters, often occurring at night.
- Shortness of Breath: The expanding uterus puts pressure on your diaphragm, making it harder to breathe deeply.
- Heartburn and Indigestion: Hormonal changes and the pressure from the growing uterus can cause digestive discomfort.
- Water Retention: Swelling in the feet and ankles is common due to increased fluid retention and reduced blood circulation.
Less Common Symptoms
Some women may experience other symptoms like:
- Gestational Diabetes: This form of diabetes occurs only during pregnancy and can develop around this time. Regular screenings are crucial for early detection and management.
- Preeclampsia: A condition characterised by high blood pressure and signs of damage to another organ system. It’s essential to monitor blood pressure and report any concerns to your doctor.
Tips for Managing Symptoms
- Stay Active: Gentle exercises like walking or prenatal yoga can help alleviate backaches and improve circulation.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps reduce swelling and prevents dehydration.
- Eat Small, Frequent Meals: This can help with heartburn and indigestion.
- Rest and Relaxation: Getting enough rest is crucial as fatigue can worsen other symptoms.
As your baby continues to grow and develop, your body also continues to adapt and change. Understanding these changes and knowing how to manage the accompanying symptoms can help ensure a more comfortable and healthy pregnancy.
Remember, every pregnancy is unique, and it’s always best to consult with your doctor or midwife regarding any concerns or symptoms you may experience. As you approach the final trimester, you will be preparing for the exciting journey of welcoming your baby into the world.