Week 27 of pregnancy

Your baby this week

About 1039 g (estimated weight; Source: WHO fetal growth charts (Kiserud et al., PLoS Med 2017)) — about as heavy as a medium patta gobi (cabbage) (Source: USDA SR Legacy (FoodData Central) FDC 169975 'Cabbage, raw': portion '1 head, medium (about 5-3/4" dia)' = 908 g edible portion; SR28 FOOD_DES refuse 20% (Outer leaves and core). As-purchased weight = 908 / (1 - 0.2) = 1135.0 g.). Every baby grows a little differently.

How your baby is developing

• Brain tissue is growing rapidly, and early sleep–wake patterns may be developing.UNSW Embryology (CC-BY)
• This week typically marks the end of the second trimester.ACOG

How you may feel

• Restless legs and continued fatigue are common as the second trimester ends.NHS
• Swelling in the hands and feet may increase.ACOG

Nutrition this week

• Iron — blood volume rises ~50% — iron demand climbs (Red meat)
• Calcium — fetal skeleton mineralising (Dairy)
• Vitamin D — calcium absorption + bone (Fatty fish)

When to reach out

• Heavy vaginal bleeding or passing clots.ACOG
• Severe or persistent abdominal or pelvic pain.ACOG
• Severe, persistent nausea or vomiting that prevents keeping any fluids down (possible hyperemesis gravidarum).NHS
• Fever of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher, or chills.WHO
• Severe dizziness, fainting, or a racing/irregular heartbeat.NHS
• Pain or burning when urinating (possible urinary tract infection).NHS
• A severe or persistent headache that doesn't improve.ACOG
• Sudden swelling of the face, hands, or feet.ACOG
• Visual disturbances — blurring, flashing lights, or spots.ACOG
• Regular contractions, pelvic pressure, or low back pain before 37 weeks (possible signs of preterm labor).ACOG
• Fluid leaking or gushing from the vagina (possible ruptured membranes).NHS
• Persistent pain in the upper abdomen, especially under the ribs on the right side.ACOG

These apply to this week specifically. See the full list of urgent warning signs the CDC publishes for pregnancy and the year after birth.