Week 27 of Pregnancy: The Final Stretch of the Second Trimester
Last updated: January 2026
Quick Answer
Congratulations! At 27 weeks pregnant, you're at the final week of your second trimester - you're now two-thirds through your pregnancy journey! Your baby is about the size of a cauliflower head (36.6 cm), weighs around 875g, and is developing rapidly with lungs preparing for life outside. Next week marks the beginning of the third trimester - the home stretch!
Your Baby at 27 Weeks
Watch: How to boost your baby's brain development. Here are list of foods one should give the baby
Size and Development
Measurement
Details
**Length**
About 36.6 cm (14.4 inches)
**Weight**
Approximately 875 grams
**Size comparison**
Like a head of cauliflower
Baby's Development This Week
Lungs:
Now capable of breathing air (if born early)
Producing surfactant
Practice breathing movements
Still developing, but more prepared
Skin and Body:
Filling out with fat
Less wrinkled appearance
Skin becoming thicker
Baby looks more like newborn now
Brain:
Developing rapidly
More active brain waves
Distinct sleep cycles
Dreaming may be happening!
Movement:
Very active
Respond to sounds
May get hiccups
Regular patterns emerging
What's Happening to Your Body
Common Symptoms at 27 Weeks
Symptom
Why It Happens
What Helps
Constipation & bloating
Hormones slow digestion
Fiber, water, movement
Weight gain
Baby growing
Normal and healthy
Feeling hot
Increased blood volume
Light clothes, cool drinks
Sleeping difficulties
Belly size, discomfort
Side sleeping, pillows
Snoring
Swollen nasal passages
Humidifier, propped pillows
More Symptoms You May Experience
Tiredness
Stretch marks
Swollen and bleeding gums
Round ligament pain
Hemorrhoids
Headaches and backaches
Nosebleeds
Heartburn and indigestion
Leg cramps
Dizziness
Swollen hands and feet
Urinary infections
Vaginal discharge
Chloasma (mask of pregnancy)
Greasier skin and acne
Thicker, shinier hair
Sleeping Positions
Best Position: On your side (especially left side)
Why It Matters:
After 28 weeks, sleeping on back may reduce blood flow
Left side improves blood flow to baby
Better for kidney function and reduces swelling
Tips for Side Sleeping:
Use pillow under belly
Pillow between knees
Don't worry if you roll onto back - just shift when you wake
Special pregnancy pillows can help
Travel Considerations
Flying at 27 Weeks
This may be your last chance to fly without a medical note!
After Week
Airline Requirements
28-36 weeks
Usually need "fit to fly" letter
After 36 weeks
Most airlines won't allow travel
Before Travel:
Check airline policy
Get doctor's approval
Carry medical records
Stay hydrated during flight
Walk during flight (prevent blood clots)
Wear comfortable clothes
Wear compression stockings
Step-by-Step Guide for Week 27
Step 1: Get Whooping Cough Vaccine (If Not Done)
Ideal window: Weeks 16-32
Best time: Before 28 weeks
Why: Protects baby in first months of life
Action: Talk to doctor if you haven't received it
Step 2: Prepare for Third Trimester
What Changes:
More frequent prenatal visits
Possibly more tired
Need to finalize birth plans
Hospital bag preparation
Start Thinking About:
Birth preferences
Pediatrician selection
Baby essentials
Postpartum support
Step 3: Focus on Sleep Quality
Create a Sleep Routine:
Go to bed at same time
Limit fluids before bed (reduces bathroom trips)
Use pregnancy pillow
Keep room cool
Relaxation techniques before bed
Step 4: Manage Digestive Issues
For Constipation and Bloating:
Drink 8-10 glasses water daily
Eat high-fiber foods
Walk daily
Small, frequent meals
Avoid gas-causing foods if bothered
For Heartburn:
Small, frequent meals
Don't lie down after eating
Avoid spicy, acidic foods
Sleep slightly propped up
Ask doctor about safe antacids
Step 5: Continue Healthy Habits
Nutrition Focus:
Iron-rich foods (dates, green vegetables)
Calcium (milk, curd, ragi)
Protein (dal, paneer, eggs)
Omega-3 (walnuts, fish)
Continue prenatal vitamins
Exercise:
Walking
Prenatal yoga
Swimming
Avoid lying flat on back for exercises
Tips for Success
Sleep on your side - Especially important from now on
Stay active - Gentle exercise helps many symptoms
Monitor movements - Know your baby's pattern
Prepare for third trimester - It starts next week!
Get vaccinated - Whooping cough vaccine if not done
Rest when tired - Listen to your body
Stay hydrated - Water helps with multiple symptoms
Connect with baby - Talk, sing, play music
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Sleeping on back regularly - Try side sleeping
Ignoring heartburn triggers - Identify and avoid them
Skipping exercise - Movement helps, even when tired
Not drinking enough water - Worsens constipation, headaches
Waiting too long for vaccines - Get whooping cough by 32 weeks
Planning long flights - May need medical clearance soon
Ignoring unusual symptoms - Always check with doctor
When to Seek Help
Contact Doctor Immediately If:
Decreased baby movements
Severe, persistent headache
Vision changes
Sudden severe swelling
Vaginal bleeding or leaking fluid
Regular contractions before 37 weeks
Severe abdominal pain
High fever
Signs of UTI
Schedule Appointment For:
Questions about third trimester
Birth plan discussions
Concerns about symptoms
Any worries about baby
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: 27 weeks mein baby bahut hiccups karta hai - normal hai kya?
A: Yes, very normal! Baby hiccups happen as they practice breathing movements. You might feel rhythmic, jerky movements that last several minutes. This is actually a good sign - means respiratory system is developing. They're not uncomfortable for baby.
Q: Kaun sa side sona chahiye - left ya right?
A: Left side is considered best because it improves blood flow to baby and helps your kidneys work better. However, either side is fine - the key is to avoid sleeping flat on your back. Don't stress if you wake up on your back - just roll to your side.
Q: Third trimester mein kya changes expect karun?
A: Third trimester (starts next week at 28 weeks) brings: more frequent prenatal visits, possibly more tiredness, bigger belly, Braxton Hicks contractions, preparation for birth, nesting instinct. Baby will be gaining weight rapidly. It's the final stretch!
Q: Ab tak kitna weight gain hona chahiye?
A: By 27 weeks, typical weight gain is 7-10 kg for women who started at normal weight. However, healthy weight gain varies based on starting weight. More important is steady gain and nutritious diet. Discuss with your doctor about what's right for you.
Q: Baby ki movements ki counting kab shuru karni chahiye?
A: You can start noting movement patterns now. By 28 weeks, many doctors recommend formal kick counting. After a meal, lie down and count movements - aim for 10 movements in 2 hours. What matters most is knowing YOUR baby's normal pattern and noticing any changes.
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This article was reviewed by a healthcare provider. Week 27 marks the end of your second trimester - you're entering the home stretch!
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