Week 27: End of the Second Trimester
The twenty-seventh week marks the end of the second trimester. Your baby is ready for the final stage.
Baby size: Cauliflower (105-110 mm)
Baby development
Active Brain and First Hiccups
Your baby is becoming increasingly developed. His brain, which was previously smooth, now has characteristic folds and grooves, increasing the surface area for neurons.
What’s happening this week:
- Brain: Active development of the cerebral cortex.
- Lungs: Continuing to mature, preparing for the first breath.
- Hiccups: You may start feeling rhythmic, barely noticeable twitches in the belly. Your baby is hiccupping – a completely normal phenomenon.
- Taste receptors: They are so developed that he can distinguish sweet from bitter.
Your fetus weighs about 875 grams, and its length is over 36 centimeters.
Changes for mom
Back Pain and Maternity Leave Preparation
The load on your back and legs increases each day. At this stage, many women also begin preparing for maternity leave.
What you may notice:
- Sciatic nerve pain: The uterus may press on the sciatic nerve, causing sharp pain that radiates down the leg.
- Leg cramps: May intensify, especially at night.
- Restless legs syndrome: An irresistible urge to move the legs to relieve uncomfortable sensations.
- Thoughts about upcoming labor: You may feel excitement or anxiety, and that is completely normal.
Taking care of your physical condition now is very important. Learn more about how to manage discomfort in the article "Physical Changes of the Body During Pregnancy".
Overview
Week 27: Welcome, Third Trimester!
The twenty-seventh week is the home stretch of the second trimester and your ticket to the final stage of pregnancy. You’ve done great, and only three months remain until you meet your little one.
He is now the size of a romaine lettuce head. His brain is extremely active, and the lungs continue to mature. He already has a regular sleep‑wake cycle and may even be dreaming!
For you, this is a week where you may feel a bit tired yet full of anticipation. Your belly is growing, and you become increasingly aware of the approaching most important day. It’s time for final preparations and self‑care.
The end of the second trimester is a significant milestone. You are entering a period of active preparation for labor and motherhood. Focus on your comfort and a positive mindset.
Ahead lies the third trimester with its particularities. Find out what to expect in our detailed overview "Third Trimester: What You Need to Know".
Tips for mom
Maternity Leave Planning and Discomfort Management
This is a great time to wrap up all work tasks and focus on preparing for your new role.
What you should do:
- Plan your maternity leave. Discuss the start date with your manager and hand over tasks to colleagues.
- Do stretching exercises. Light stretching of the leg and back muscles can help alleviate pain.
- Eat enough magnesium and calcium. These minerals help prevent cramps. They are found in nuts, bananas, leafy greens, and dairy products.
- Discuss your fears. Share your concerns about labor with your partner, a friend, or a psychologist.
It is important to prepare not only physically but also psychologically for upcoming changes. Read the article about psychological readiness to find useful tips.
Tips for partner
Logistics Lead and Moral Support
Your role during this transitional period is to help with practical matters and be a reliable support.
Your contribution to the joint effort:
- Help her with work tasks. She may need assistance printing documents or simply your advice.
- Be her “massage therapist”. A gentle foot and lower‑back massage before bedtime can greatly improve her comfort.
- Compile a contact list together. Write down the doctor’s, birthing center’s, taxi’s phone numbers so everything is at hand.
- Listen to her fears. Don’t dismiss her concerns. Just be there and say that you’ll get through it together.
Your support during labor will be priceless. Learn more about your role in the article "Partner Births".
Checklist
Your Action Plan for Week 27
We’re wrapping up the second trimester and preparing for the final stage.
- ✅ Finish main work tasks and plan handover of duties.
- 🍌 Add magnesium‑rich foods to your diet (bananas, avocado, nuts).
- 🧘♀️ Learn a few stretching exercises for the back and legs.
- 👜 Start packing the birthing bag. Don’t postpone this to the last minute.
- ☎️ Create a list of important contacts and keep it in a visible place.
- 📚 Get inspired for preparation by reading the article "Packing the Birthing Bag".