27 Weeks Pregnant: What to Expect, Baby Development & End of Second Trimester
27 weeks pregnant: what to know right now
Baby: Size of a head of cauliflower (~14.4 inches, ~1.9 lbs) · Eyes open and close, sleep cycles distinct, brain growing rapidly · Body: Last week of second trimester — round ligament pain, leg cramps, Braxton Hicks · Key milestone: Third trimester begins next week (week 28) · Coming up: Glucose tolerance test if not done
Here's everything happening with your baby and your body this week.
Kick counts: starting now, track fetal movement daily. After 28 weeks, 10 movements in 2 hours is typical. Call your doctor if you notice decreased movement.
🌱 Baby's development this week
- Third trimester begins
- Brain developing billions of neurons
- Hiccupping frequently as diaphragm practices
- Tasting amniotic fluid — studies show flavor preferences formed now
The third trimester is when the baby
🤰 Your symptoms this week
💛 Changes in your body
- Shortness of breath as uterus presses on diaphragm
- Frequent urination intensifies
- Leg cramps and restless legs common at night
- Sleep becoming difficult — try different positions and pillows
Third trimester anxiety is universal. Sleep deprivation, physical discomfort, and approaching labor create a perfect storm of anxiety. Midwife or therapist support is appropriate and encouraged.
Preparing for the Third Trimester: What Changes at Week 28
Week 27 is the final week of the second trimester. The transition to the third trimester at week 28 is medically meaningful — your appointment schedule typically intensifies, kick counting becomes standard practice, and new symptoms accelerate.
What changes at week 28:
- Appointments become more frequent: From week 28, most providers schedule check-ups every 2–3 weeks rather than monthly
- Kick counting begins: 10 movements in 2 hours becomes the standard daily check from 28 weeks
- Third trimester symptoms ramp up: Shortness of breath, pelvic girdle pain, heartburn, and Braxton Hicks will likely intensify
- Glucose test deadline: If you haven't had the gestational diabetes screen (GTT) yet, it must happen by 28 weeks. Contact your provider this week if you haven't scheduled it
- Anti-D injection: If you are Rh negative, you'll receive an anti-D injection at 28 weeks
At 27 weeks, start mentally preparing for the physical demands ahead. The third trimester is when many women find pregnancy most challenging — not because anything is wrong, but because the physical load is genuinely heavier. Rest is not optional at this stage. See week 28 for the full third-trimester entry guide.
🥗 Nutrition focus
- Protein needs are highest in the third trimester — aim for 100g/day
- Calcium 1200mg/day — baby is calcifying bones rapidly and will take from yours if you
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Appointments now every 2–4 weeks. Discuss third trimester schedule and any questions about labor and delivery.
✅ This week's checklist
Frequently Asked Questions: 27 Weeks Pregnant
How big is baby at 27 weeks?+
At 27 weeks, your baby is approximately 14.4 inches (36.6 cm) long and weighs about 1.9 lbs (875 g) — roughly the size of a head of cauliflower. Brain development is accelerating rapidly; the folds and grooves of the brain's surface are forming.
What trimester is 27 weeks?+
27 weeks is the final week of the second trimester. The third trimester officially begins at week 28. You have approximately 13 weeks until your due date.
What are common symptoms at 27 weeks pregnant?+
Common symptoms at 27 weeks: round ligament pain, leg cramps (especially at night), Braxton Hicks contractions, lower back pain, shortness of breath, heartburn, swollen ankles by evening, and vivid or disturbing dreams.
What is the glucose tolerance test and when should I have it?+
The GTT screens for gestational diabetes and is scheduled between weeks 24–28. If you're at 27 weeks and haven't had it, contact your provider immediately to schedule it before the window closes. The 1-hour glucose challenge test doesn't require fasting; an elevated result triggers a 3-hour fasting test.
Should I be feeling baby kick at 27 weeks?+
Yes — by 27 weeks, fetal movement should be regular and noticeable. You'll likely recognize your baby's active times (often after meals and in the evening). Formal kick counting (10 movements in 2 hours) begins at 28 weeks, but decreased movement compared to your normal pattern at any gestation warrants a call to your provider.
Track your pregnancy week by week
Interactive guide · 40 weeks · Fruit size visualizations · Personalized tips
Explore Week 27 in the Interactive Guide →