27 Weeks Pregnant

This week is all about your baby becoming active. If you haven’t already, you’ll likely be feeling her/him move very soon. Here’s what else you can expect in pregnancy at 27 weeks:

• Your baby weighs almost 1 kilogram and is about the length of a head of broccoli.
• He/She may be as much as 4 times longer than he/she was during the 12th week of pregnancy.
• Her lungs, liver, and immune system continue to mature.
• She might begin to recognize you and your partner’s voice.

As you approach the end of your 2nd trimester, remember to keep your weight gain in check. Consider tracking everything you eat in a food diary. This will help you see exactly what you’re eating and when.

Be sure to keep accurate records. Write as you eat, as it can be easy to forget by the end of the day. Be specific about everything, including snacks and condiments.

After one week, review what you’ve written and ask yourself: Are my food choices providing me and my developing baby with the right nutrients? Where can I make some adjustments? You can also share your food diary at your next doctor’s appointment and ask for recommendations.

Remember: Don’t be hard on yourself if you cave to a craving. It’s fine to indulge occasionally, and if you do, do so in moderation.

Make exercise fun and social.

By now, you may have met other pregnant women at the childbirth preparation class, or at work. Invite other expectant moms to meet up for a walk or another activity you enjoy. Always consult with your health care professional before adding anything new to your exercise regimen.

Preterm labor is when you experience contractions before your 37th week of pregnancy. Some signs of preterm labor include:

• Contractions that feel different than true contractions, which are medically classified as Braxton Hicks Contractions
  
  
  • Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular, weak contractions that vary in length and intensity and typically stop when you rest, walk, or change positions.
• Contractions that occur at regular intervals, that are consistent, or that become more intense
• Contractions with lower back pain, cramps, or other pain
• Changes in your vaginal discharge that include spotting or bleeding
• Water that is excreting from your vagina

If you experience symptoms of preterm labor, call your healthcare professional or your local emergency number.