27 Weeks Pregnant: Symptoms, Belly Size & Ultrasound

27 weeks pregnant is a milestone to celebrate and savor. Find out what to expect when you’re 27 weeks pregnant, find out whether you can feel baby yet and what your uterus looks like. What size is a 12-week-pregnant uterus? What are the 8th week symptoms? When does baby start to move?

Your baby at week 27 of pregnancy

In this stage of development, your baby’s brain and lungs are making great strides. He would have a fair chance of survival if he were born right now, but he still needs a little bit of time to develop. It appears like new layers of fat are being deposited. The extra layers will also make it easier for your kid to maintain a comfortable temperature as he adjusts to life outside the womb.

Keep track of your baby’s kicks. It’s common knowledge that your fetus is most active at night, when you’re attempting to get some rest. Baby should be moving around 10 times each hour during his active periods. Pick an hour and write down every action you take during that time. You should have a glass of juice and try counting again in an hour if your baby hasn’t moved 10 times. If the baby hasn’t moved ten times during a two-hour period, you should contact your doctor.

27 weeks pregnant is how many months?

When you are 27 weeks pregnant, you are officially in 6 months of your pregnancy, just another 4 months to go! Congratulations, you’ve already made great progress!

How big is your baby at 27 weeks pregnant?

Your newborn measures roughly 14 and a half inches in length and almost 2 pounds in weight, which is about the same as a head of cauliflower or head of kale. Babies at this age have established regular sleep and waking times, during which they may or may not open and close their eyes or gnaw on their fingers.

27 weeks pregnant baby position

The baby’s head gets heavier because of the quick development. Gravity will have an effect on the infant, and it will cause the baby to shift its spatial orientation. By the end of the 27th week, the baby’s head is almost certainly pointing straight down.

27 weeks pregnant: baby’s development

26-29 weeks baby developments

By the time a woman is seven months along in her pregnancy, doctors have access to a wide range of diagnostic techniques that allow them to learn a great deal about the developing fetus. It is now possible to use neuroimaging techniques such as functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and magnetoencephalography to detect brain activity in the fetus outside of the abdomen (MEG). These methods analyze neuronal electrical activity or blood flow to determine mental state.

Using these methods, scientists have learned that a fetus’s brain responds to sound and light at 27 weeks of gestation in a manner similar to an adult’s. Scientists studying preterm newborns at these ages might also evaluate how their brains reacted to touch and discomfort.

Ultrasound technology allows doctors to discriminate between REM sleep and non-REM sleep in fetuses as early as 27 weeks postconception. Eyelid movements are rapid during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. Remembering things requires this amount of rest. As a general rule, people sleep more deeply during non-REM states. A baby’s REM sleep time increases with his gestational age.

Impressive brain growth

A fetus during 27 weeks of gestation has more neurons than he would ever have again. At this stage, the fetus is thought to have around 100 billion neurons. There are between 60 and 85 billion neurons in an adult’s brain since those that don’t make it into functional circuits die off.

Myelination starts at the seven month mark. The process of myelination encases neurons in a fatty sheath to enhance their signaling speed. Myelination improves the efficacy of each connection within a brain circuit, yet neural circuits can nonetheless function without myelination. Myelination occurs in three stages beginning around 9 months after birth, beginning with the sensory systems, progressing through the motor systems, and ending in the association areas. Before the age of 25, myelination continued.

Your body at 27 weeks pregnant

Along with your increasing appetite, you can also feel heartburn. To avoid heartburn, eat softer foods that are less spicy. Ask your doctor about prescribing medications to assist relieve the symptoms if your heartburn is so bad that it interferes with your ability to sleep or eat correctly.

Getting enough rest is crucial at 27 weeks and moving ahead. Fatigue, a possibility of losing consciousness, falling, and an increase in blood pressure can all result from overexertion.

Avoid exposing yourself to extreme heat. Although the summer is an uncomfortable time to be 27 weeks pregnant, you should also exercise caution in the cooler months. Showering in blazing hot water may seem comforting, but be careful not to let it get too hot. Your blood pressure may increase as a result of being in intense heat, which could further result in exhaustion or nosebleeds.

Fear of Labor

You’re not the only one who finds the thought of labor terrifying. Perhaps you are concerned that you won’t recognize the signs of labor, that the agony will be unbearable, or that you’ll need an urgent C-section. These worries are normal, but you’ll feel less anxious on birth day if you find out more about what worries you.

Worried about knowing you’re in labor

In the weeks leading up to the birth of your child, you may have frequent Braxton Hicks contractions. These fake contractions, which feel like abdominal constriction, provide a light workout for the uterus. Typically, these contractions will cease after you slow down, put your feet up, and drink a glass of water.

Dr. William Camann, MD, director of obstetric anesthesia at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts, and coauthor of Easy Labor: Every Woman’s Guide to Choosing Less Pain and More Joy During Childbirth, explains that there is a helpful method for determining whether your contractions are false or labor-inducing.

Feel the resistance when touching your nose? Place your index finger on your forehead. It feels tighter, harder. The difference in touch is comparable to that between Braxton Hicks and actual contractions. Dr. Camann notes that your forehead resembles true contractions in that it is tight and firm, but your nose resembles fake contractions in that it is hard but slightly pliable.

Although Braxton Hicks contractions may cause anxiety, they are typical. Inform your healthcare practitioner if you are experiencing frequent fake labor pains. Keep in mind that when your due date approaches, your healthcare professional will be able to determine whether you may enter labor earlier than anticipated. Your once-monthly appointments will now be biweekly, and eventually weekly.

Many women have gone to the hospital believing they are in labor, only to find that their contractions have stopped. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your healthcare provider.

Worried about the pain of labor

Are you worried that labor will be painful? Many women are. When it comes to pain management on delivery day, you have several options. Now is the time to discuss your birth plan with your healthcare provider.

Birth plans are simply what you have in mind for your delivery. You can type up a document to give to your healthcare provider or go over your preferences in the doctor’s office. Before you prepare this plan, discuss with your healthcare provider what pain medications may interest you.

Understanding your options and preparing a birth plan can help you cope with childbirth pain. Remember that you may change your mind once in labor: maybe you’ll decide to go without medications; maybe you’ll choose stronger pain medications than you planned on.

If you are afraid of labor, you may also find it helpful to take childbirth classes. If you know what to expect on delivery day, you won’t have to worry about any surprises.

Worried your baby will have problems

Your fear of labor might be tied into worries your baby may have problems, or your delivery will be fraught with complications. While there are no guarantees everything with your delivery will go smoothly, complications are the exception, not the rule, reminds Dr. Camann.

27 weeks pregnant tips and advice

Drink plenty of water

Staying hydrated is important. Your body uses more water during your pregnancy to fuel your increased blood supply (necessary to get your baby-to-be plenty of nutrients) and other body functions. Taken to extremes, dehydration can lead to preterm labor pains. So bring a water bottle to work with you—and drink it.

Use the bathroom—often

Drinking more water means more trips to the bathroom. Add to that, your kidneys are working overtime to filter impurities from your increased blood supply. To avoid stares from coworkers, plan discrete potty breaks. Go when you first get to the office and take a break on the way from meetings or other times when you’re already up so your trips will be less noticeable. Putting off a trip to the bathroom is a bad idea—it makes you uncomfortable and puts stress on your bladder, which can lead to bladder infections.

Bring light snacks

Food may not be appealing, especially if you’re experiencing nausea. Skip a full-blown lunch and opt for lighter fare throughout the day. Keep in mind that some pregnancy comfort foods are dead giveaways, such as crackers. If you’re trying to keep your pregnancy a secret, try less notorious foods that still comfort nausea but that don’t shout, “I’m pregnant!” Opt for foods high in protein, such as string cheese, almonds, or milk.

Wear comfortable clothes

You’ve probably packed away your tight-fitting pants already. If you haven’t, now’s probably the time to say goodbye to your hip-hugging ensembles until after your baby’s arrival. Avoiding tight clothes isn’t just about hiding your baby bump. Your body may be retaining water to fuel your increased blood supply, and constricting clothes are not only tight on your skin, but the blood that’s trying to flow underneath.

Watch your posture

Take time to get off your feet and walk around. Staying in the same position for too long allows the blood to pool in the lower part of your body, potentially making you light-headed. Put your feet up whenever possible to keep your blood flowing properly.

Having Trouble Sleeping at 27 weeks Pregnant

Having difficulties sleeping is a common pregnant symptom, and it’s especially common in the second and third trimesters, when other pregnancy symptoms peak and a growing belly makes it difficult to find a comfortable sleeping position.

When you’re 27 weeks pregnant, it could hurt to sleep on your stomach, but studies indicates that lying on your back puts more strain on the vena cava, the main blood vessel that returns blood to the heart.

Your blood circulation will increase if you sleep on your left side, which will also be good for your uterus, kidneys, and fetus. If you’re having trouble falling asleep, try placing a pillow between your knees and another under your stomach. If the problem persists, consult your doctor.

27 weeks Pregnant: Wellness and Nutrition

What should you avoid during pregnancy? Doctors agree that you should avoid the following:

Activities that may cause you to fall, or that place pressure or force on your belly
Intense, overly vigorous exercise – if you’re too out of breath to talk, you’re probably exercising too hard.

Drinking alcohol, smoking, and caffeine (ask your doctor how much caffeine you should consume each day)
Sweeteners such as saccharine and herbal sweeteners (ask your doctor if artificial sweeteners are appropriate)
Prescription and over-the-counter medications (check with your doctor about what’s safe during pregnancy)
Paint, cleaning products, and solvents can expose you to chemicals and fumes. Acrylic and latex paints are generally considered safe. However, you should consult your doctor before helping around the house or in the nursery.
Saunas and hot tubs

Chemical treatments for your hair, such as dye and perms

27 weeks pregnancy symptoms

Your body undergoes many changes to give your baby-to-be enough room to grow. Some of these changes are comforting—your rounded belly and your full breasts, for example—while other signs can be troubling. Keep in mind that many of these physical changes will last only until your baby arrives.

Upper abdominal pain

The uterus is growing rapidly, putting pressure on organs like the bladder, intestines, and stomach. This can cause mild pain in the upper abdomen that may extend to the lower abdomen or sides of your stomach. The pressure on your abdomen can also cause pain when you cough or sneeze.

Lower abdominal pain

The uterus is growing rapidly and putting pressure on your bladder, intestines, and stomach. This can cause lower abdominal pain that may feel like mild cramping or a dull ache in the pelvic region. Back pain. The growing weight of your uterus on your spine can cause back pain that typically becomes worse as pregnancy progresses.

Leg cramps

The weight of your uterus can put pressure on your veins and cause leg cramps or swelling. You may also experience varicose veins in your legs due to increased blood flow. Neck pain. As the baby grows, it puts more pressure on the spinal cord, which runs down through your neck and back. This can cause mild pain in the neck area that may extend into your shoulders and arms.

Back pain

Your growing uterus can put pressure on your spine and cause back pain. The weight of the baby can also cause sciatica, which is when pain shoots down the back of one leg due to compression in the spinal cord. Backache. Your growing uterus may cause you to experience mild to moderate lower back pain or stiffness in your lower abdomen around this time.

Sleeping difficulties

You may find it harder to get comfortable when you’re pregnant. Your growing abdomen can make it more difficult for you to find a position that feels good, and your joints may be sore from carrying extra weight. You might also experience restless leg syndrome, which is when you feel like your legs are moving even though they aren’t. This happens because the joints in the body release chemicals that cause itching or tingling sensations when they are irritated by things like pregnancy hormones.

Swollen Ankels

You may be experiencing swollen ankles, which is common during pregnancy. This happens because the increased levels of hormones in your body cause fluid to accumulate in your tissues, including those that line the walls of your veins and arteries. It’s usually not a cause for concern unless you have swelling in both legs or it lasts longer than two weeks.

Breast changes and tenderness

Tenderness and slight alterations in the shape of your breasts are common pregnancy symptoms around the 27th week. The hormones estrogen and progesterone are responsible for these alterations, which help your body get ready for breastfeeding after giving birth. You might find that your breasts are more sensitive to touch and feel fuller than usual.

Fatigue (constant tiredness or weakness)

One of the most typical symptoms of early pregnancy is fatigue, which frequently starts at this point. Although there are many causes of exhaustion during pregnancy (including changes in hormone levels), some research indicates that inadequate sleep brought on by nighttime awakenings from unpleasant sleeping positions may also be a role.

Heartburn or gas

There may be a rise in heartburn and flatulence during the 27th week of pregnancy. This is because progesterone produces a decrease in the tone of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) muscle, which typically prevents stomach acid from entering the esophagus. This can cause heartburn and discomfort by allowing stomach acid to flow back up into the esophagus. Try spreading your meals out more, staying away from items that are known to cause heartburn (such spicy foods), and drinking lots of water.

Mood swings and crying spells

The 27th week of pregnancy is a vulnerable time for women, when they are more likely to experience mood swings and crying spells. Until your hormone levels settle, this will have an impact on your mental and emotional well-being. This is a common occurrence for pregnant women; one study indicated that 75% of women felt emotional shifts like irritability or depression in the first trimester.

Pregnant stretch marks

In the 27th week of pregnancy, stretch marks, sometimes called striae gravidarum, may occur on the belly. Stretch marks form when the skin is forced apart and then stretched beyond its natural elasticity, as happens during rapid growth or weight gain (like pregnancy)

Indigestion, or constipation

During the 27th week of pregnancy, you may suffer gastrointestinal issues like indigestion or constipation. Pregnancy hormones like progesterone and estrogen might increase the likelihood of gastrointestinal issues including indigestion. These hormones slow down digestion by relaxing the digestive tract, preventing food from being swallowed whole. You can reduce the frequency and severity of indigestion during pregnancy by cutting out on high-fat and sugary foods and eating more often, smaller meals (like sweets or fried foods).

Swelling (edema)

Your body retains water to provide the necessary fluids for your growing baby-to-be. You can prevent much of this swelling from drinking plenty of fluids and keeping your legs up. You may also want to purchase socks designed to improve the circulation in your feet.

Skin spots

The skin’s pigmentation may deepen around certain parts of your body during pregnancy, such as your nipples and freckles. You may also notice spots of color on your face, called the mask of pregnancy or chloasma. These pigmentation changes will fade after your baby’s born.

27 weeks pregnant belly size (baby bumb)

At 27 weeks, you should give your skin even more TLC as your tummy grows. Lotions and olive oil can help feed the stretched skin, increasing its flexibility and decreasing the risk of stretch marks. Pregnancy stretch marks are inevitable, but proper skin care can help minimize their appearance. Having properly moisturized skin means that it will be more resilient and less prone to tears.

Your belly button is likely totally exposed at this stage and may even be showing through your clothing. Linea Nigra, which literally translates to “a black line,” may run vertically across your belly. The health of the mother or the unborn child is not in risk in any way because of this.

Braxton Hicks at 27 weeks Pregnant

At 27 weeks pregnant, you may find that your Braxton Hicks contractions are becoming more frequent and intense. You may feel them in your back or lower abdomen, and they may last anywhere from 30 seconds to two minutes. If you’re having regular contractions, it’s important to talk with your doctor about any pain or discomfort you experience during them.

Braxton Hicks are common during the third trimester. You may not even notice them because they feel like mild discomfort or a dull ache in your lower abdomen. They’re also called practice contractions because they prepare your body for real labor by getting it ready to push out a baby when the time comes.

27 weeks pregnant ultrasound

If you’re in your 27th week of pregnancy, you probably shouldn’t get an ultrasound unless there are serious concerns. If your doctor notices any of the following signs, he or she will order an ultrasound. Baby hiccups too much. Absence or reduction in fetal movement.

The importance of prenatal vitamins during pregnancy

During pregnancy, you need a greater amount of folic acid and iron. Why? Here are some reasons:

Folic acid prevents neural tube defects

These defects affect the fetal brain and spinal cord in a significant way. Preferably, you should begin taking extra folic acid three months before you become pregnant.

The placenta and baby require iron to develop

The body uses iron to make blood to supply oxygen to the baby. Additionally, iron helps prevent anemia, a condition in which the blood lacks healthy red blood cells

It’s important to consult your doctor or healthcare provider to find out which are the best prenatal vitamins to take before pregnancy, and how to calculate your expected delivery date.