Pregnant in week 27
Week 27 is the last week of the second trimester. Your baby is the size of a broccoli and can now get hiccups – the small rhythmic thumps are clearly felt. It is time to consider birth preparation in good time.
Your baby in week 27
Your baby measures around 36.6 centimetres and weighs about 875 grams. The brain grows quickly and forms the folds and grooves that make room for its many neural connections.
Your baby often gets hiccups now, as it practises breathing movements and swallows amniotic fluid. Hiccups feel like small, regular thumps and are completely normal and harmless.
The lungs continue to mature, and if your baby were born prematurely from now, the chances of doing well are good with modern care. Ideally, though, it keeps growing and maturing in the uterus.
Your body and symptoms in week 27
You are on the threshold of the third trimester, and the bump is large and clear. Many now experience more tiredness again, after the great energy of the second trimester.
Heartburn, breathlessness and frequent urination can increase, because the uterus presses upwards against the diaphragm and downwards against the bladder. Back and pelvic pain are also common.
The movements are strong and frequent. Hiccups, kicks and stretches are part of everyday life. Keep feeling for movements daily and react to clear changes.
Good advice for week 27
Sign up for birth classes
The third trimester is approaching. Birth and parenting classes give calm and knowledge – sign up now, while you have the energy to take part.
Take breaks in your day
Tiredness can return now. Plan rest into your day, and don't be afraid to ask for help with heavy tasks.
Enjoy the hiccups
The small rhythmic thumps are hiccups and a good sign your baby is practising breathing. They can come several times a day and are completely harmless.
Plan 3D/4D if you want it
Week 28 is the best time for a 3D/4D scan. If you want to see your baby's face, book next week's appointment now.
Checklists for this stage
Tick things off as you go – the list remembers where you got to, and you can share it with your partner.
Relevant with us in week 27
This is what we can offer you at this point in your pregnancy.
Frequently asked questions in week 27
Why does my baby get hiccups?
Hiccups happen when your baby practises breathing movements and swallows amniotic fluid. It is a good sign that the nervous system and diaphragm are working, and it doesn't bother your baby.
What are the chances if my baby is born now?
Born around week 27, the chances of doing well with modern intensive care are good, but there is still a risk of complications. Every extra week in the womb counts.
Why am I tired again?
Your body works hard, sleep is often disturbed, and you carry more weight. Renewed tiredness towards the end of pregnancy is completely normal – listen to your body.
Your pregnancy – week by week, in your inbox
Every time you enter a new week we send you what is happening with your baby and your body, good advice for the week – and when the different scans make sense. Unsubscribe with one click.
Read on in week 27
Feeling life – when and how do you feel the first fetal movements?
How do you prepare for birth? – A guide for expectant mothers
