Everything you need to know about week 27 of pregnancy

27th Week of Pregnancy (Week 27)

Your baby has put on a lot of size and weight in the past weeks – measuring now about 36–38 cm, so roughly the length of a courgette. The head is also becoming more proportionate. In week 27, your body is working at full speed: your child’s movements are getting stronger, and you can feel it preparing for life outside – from sucking to swallowing.

You might notice practice contractions, back pain or tender breasts – all normal signs that your body is getting ready for birth. Your blood volume, metabolism and digestion are also working hard now to optimally support you and your baby.

In your baby’s lungs, the air sacs are forming – they’re starting to unfold and are preparing to close for the first time after birth. At the same time, new cells are growing daily, helping your baby’s body to mature further.

Many mums-to-be experience a mix of calm, anticipation and the desire for structure this week – perhaps you feel the urge to organise something at home or to focus more on birth preparation.

The next ultrasound or a look at current development information can give you additional reassurance and confidence – after all, a little human is growing inside you, getting ready for life.

Development of the Baby in the 27th Week of Pregnancy

Your baby is about 36 to 38 cm long and weighs around 1000 to 1200 grams this week – roughly like a small cauliflower. It now looks more and more like a newborn: the body is filling out with fat, the skin is becoming smoother and the proportions more balanced.

The lungs are developing further and practising their first breathing movements – even though all supply still comes from the placenta. Your baby can now have hiccups, which you might feel as rhythmic twitching in your belly.

The brain is growing rapidly and forming new connections. Especially exciting: your baby's senses are becoming more refined. It can now perceive bright light through the abdominal wall, respond to loud sounds, and tell the difference between the mother’s or partner’s voice.

The eyes are also opening more often. The retina is beginning to develop – your child is increasingly responding to stimuli from the surroundings. This phase marks the transition from the second to the third trimester – a real milestone!

Your Body in the 27th Week of Pregnancy

At 27 weeks, your body is just before the third trimester – and you can really feel it. Your uterus now reaches about halfway between your breastbone and belly button, and your bump is impossible to miss.

Many pregnant women report back pain, heartburn, increasing pelvic pressure or night-time leg cramps at this stage. These symptoms mainly arise due to your baby’s growth and the hormonal loosening of your ligaments.

Water retention in your hands, legs or feet is also quite common – take breaks, put your feet up, and make sure you keep moving enough.

Another common issue is shortness of breath: your baby needs more room, which causes your organs to shift – including your diaphragm, which is responsible for breathing.

Your blood sugar levels may also fluctuate more now. So make sure to eat regular, balanced meals to keep your energy stable. Many women also find this week more emotionally intense – a good moment to consciously pay attention to your inner balance.