Congratulations! You’ve reached the final week of your second trimester, meaning you are now two-thirds of the way through your pregnancy. As you prepare to enter the last leg of your journey, your body and baby continue to undergo significant changes. Here’s what you need to know about Week 27 of pregnancy and how to navigate this stage smoothly.
What's Happening in My Body?
At 27 weeks, you might notice some weight gain, bloating, and constipation. This is due to the increasing size of your baby pressing against your stomach and intestines, combined with the effects of pregnancy hormones like progesterone, which slow digestion.
To ease discomfort, make sure to drink plenty of water, opt for high-fiber foods like whole grains and fresh vegetables, and engage in light physical activity.
Whooping Cough Vaccination
If you haven’t had your whooping cough vaccine yet, now is the time to speak with your doctor or midwife. The vaccine is recommended between week 16 and week 32 to protect your baby from this serious illness after birth.
Best Sleeping Positions During Pregnancy
As your bump grows, finding a comfortable sleeping position can become challenging. Experts recommend sleeping on your side, as sleeping on your back after week 28 may increase the risk of complications.
Here are some tips to improve your sleep quality:
- If you roll onto your back during sleep, don’t worry—just shift back to your side when you wake up.
- Use a pillow under your belly for support.
- Keep your knees slightly bent and place a pillow between your legs.
