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27 Weeks Pregnant: Your Baby, Your Body and What to Do
The last week of the second trimester: your baby is developing regular sleep and wake patterns.
Before you use this guide: Pregnancy weeks are counted from the first day of your last period. Sizes are rough averages, and healthy babies vary. This is general information, not an individual medical assessment, so please confirm personal health decisions with your doctor or midwife.
How your baby is growing
Your baby's brain is very active. The lungs, though not fully mature, can work with help if a baby is born early. Sleep and wake cycles are becoming regular, although they may not match yours.
Your baby can open and close the eyes, responds to sounds and may suck a thumb. Hiccups and rolling are common, and you may feel them often.
How you may be feeling
You may feel tired again as the third trimester approaches. Leg cramps, restless legs and swollen ankles are common, and it can be hard to get comfortable at night. Practice contractions (Braxton Hicks) may become more noticeable.
Your to-do list for week 27
- Ask your midwife about the whooping cough vaccine if you have not had it. In the US it is recommended between 27 and 36 weeks, while in the UK it is usually offered from 16 weeks.
- Put a plan in place for your maternity leave.
- Pay attention to your baby's movements and when they are most active.
- Think about who you want with you at the birth.
When to ask for help
If your baby's movements change, slow down or stop, contact your maternity unit straight away and do not wait until the next day. Do not rely on a home Doppler or an app to check on your baby.
For heavy bleeding, severe pain, fluid leaking, a severe headache with vision changes, or a baby who is moving less than usual, do not wait for your next appointment. Contact your midwife, doctor or maternity unit straight away. Our guide to pregnancy warning signs has more detail.
Not sure which week you are in? Use the due-date calculator to estimate your due date and current week.
Useful at this stage: pregnancy weight gain calculator and baby shower planner.
Trusted resources to read next
These public health resources provide additional information. Guidance can vary by country, so prioritise advice from your own care team and local health service.
- NHS: Pregnancy — Pregnancy care, common symptoms, screening and complications.
- NHS: Week-by-week pregnancy guide — Pregnancy development and care by week.
This content is for general information only and is not medical advice. Every pregnancy and every baby is different. Always talk to your doctor, midwife or paediatrician about your own situation, and seek urgent care if you are worried.