27 Weeks Pregnant: Baby Development & Position

What is baby doing in the womb as you enter your third trimester around 27 weeks of pregnancy? It can be hard to tell, but here are some clues!

How do I know so much about pregnancy development?

Hi — I’m Hilary — The Pregnancy Nurse 👩‍⚕️. I have been a nurse since 1997 and I have 20 years of labor and delivery nursing experience, I am also the curly head behind Pulling Curls. I have seen thousands of women as their pregnancy progresses, and I’m a good expert on what baby is doing and what you might be feeling at this point!

Week 27 Pregnancy: Baby’s Position

The majority of babies at 27 weeks are head down, simply because gravity is pulling them that way.  However, lots of babies will be in other positions in the womb as well — it is not time to worry yet.

Your baby may actually still be changing position quite often.  There is still a good amount of room in the uterus with lots of amniotic fluid around them. Some babies may already be in the head-down position, which is the ideal position for a safe delivery at the end of pregnancy. However, some babies might still be in the breech position, which means their feet or bottom is down instead of their head.

Your doctor or midwife may be able to tell baby’s position by feeling your abdomen in your office (called Leopold’s maneuvers), however at this point baby can still change position really easily.  They likely won’t check with an ultrasound until you are a bit further along (or they need the ultrasound for something else).

If the baby is still in the breech position closer to 36 weeks, they may recommend different methods to turn the baby. However, many babies do turn on their own.

Nonetheless, don’t worry too much, as there is still plenty of time for the baby to move into the right position, but it’s essential to keep attending your prenatal appointments to monitor the baby’s progress. I have a whole post on when babies turn head down. 

Note: ACOG (The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists) does not recommend routine ultrasounds at 27 weeks unless there is another reason.

Pregnancy Week 27: How big is your baby?

At this point in your pregnancy, as you close out your second trimester, your little one weighs around 2 pounds and measures about 14 1/2 inches long. Your baby is continuing to grow rapidly, and their lungs are developing, producing surfactant that will help them breathe after birth. Their skin, liver and immune system are also maturing. At this stage, your uterus is about 2 1/2 inches above your belly button, and your baby is kicking and changing position frequently.  

Your caregiver should recommend regular kick counts to help monitor your baby’s movements.

Week by week coming up, your baby will undergo even more growth, adding layers of fat, and their brain will continue to develop as they prepare for life outside the womb. As your pregnancy progresses, it’s important to continue taking care of yourself, getting plenty of rest, and staying hydrated to support your baby’s development. 

What’s going on inside you at 27 weeks pregnant?

At 27 weeks pregnant, you might be feeling the weight of your growing little one as they continue to put on pounds and inches.  This may also result in weight gain for you as well. Your growing uterus is expanding to accommodate this baby development, which means you may be experiencing some discomfort in your pregnant belly as baby is growing.

Your baby is becoming more active and you may be able to feel some of their movements, including kicks and flips. This can be an exciting time as you begin to bond with your little one on a more tangible level. However, the physical toll of pregnancy can also be taxing, as you may be feeling more fatigued and experiencing new aches and pains.  Baby moving more predictably is an important pregnancy symptoms at 27 weeks.

It’s important to prioritize self-care during this time, including adequate rest, proper nutrition, and regular check-ups with your healthcare provider. With each passing week, you’re one step closer to meeting your little one and beginning the next chapter of your life as a parent. 

It is more important to keep an eye out for any symptoms of preterm labor.  If you’re feeling abdominal pain or cramping you’ll want to talk to your doctor and make sure everything is OK.  Many pregnant women experience some contractions now and then at this point but if they become regular it can be an issue. I have a whole post on the signs of labor you might find helpful.

What should I be doing at 27 weeks pregnant?

 At 27 weeks pregnant, you should make sure you are taking care of yourself and your growing baby. You will be entering the third trimester soon, with just one week until 28 weeks. It is important to continue with your prenatal care and attend all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider especially as you get closer to your due date.

Continue to eat a balanced diet and drink plenty of water to ensure the proper growth and development of your baby. You may experience some discomfort or pressure in your pelvic area and back, so it is important to rest when you need to and practice gentle stretches and exercises. 

Avoid high-risk activities and consult with your healthcare provider before taking any medications or starting any new exercises.

You may be looking for the things you’ll need for baby including diapers, clothing and baby gear like a car seat.

I have an Organizing for baby pregnancy checklist you might like here:

It is also a good idea to begin researching and preparing for childbirth classes and considering your birth preferences.

Remember to stay positive (with things like positive affirmations) and take each day at a time, as the final stretch of pregnancy can be exciting, but also tiring.   

Week 27 Pregnancy: Find Your Childbirth Class

At week 27 of your pregnancy, it’s important to start thinking about childbirth classes.

These courses can provide valuable information and support for soon-to-be parents, helping them to feel confident and prepared for the birth of their baby.

Look for pregnancy and childbirth classes that are taught by licensed or certified experts and cover a range of topics, including labor and delivery, pain management, breastfeeding, and newborn care. 

Depending on your preferences, you can choose from classes that are offered in-person or online, and some programs may even offer options for spouses or partners to attend. With so many options available, taking the time to find the right childbirth class for you and your family can make a big difference in the birth experience. 

I recommend this class. The reviews are fantastic and I like the two price points.

And, if you’re not quite sure you’re ready for that whole thing, check out my free prenatal class. It’s your first step toward getting in the driver’s seat of your birth.