27 weeks pregnant: baby's development, your pelvic floor and trusting your instincts

Your baby’s development this week 

You’re coming to the end of the second trimester now, and your family might find it easier to feel your baby’s movements. If you feel comfortable, you could hold their hand to your tummy when your baby is kicking. This can help them to bond. If you have other children, they might want to get join in too.

Your pregnancy symptoms in week 27

Thrush

Thrush is a yeast infection that can cause a white discharge, which doesn’t usually smell. You may also feel itching or irritation. 

Thrush is common during pregnancy, especially going into the third trimester. Try not to worry too much as there’s no evidence that thrush can harm an unborn baby.

Speak to your GP or midwife before using any treatments for thrush as some are not recommended during pregnancy.

Suffering from cramps, constipation, heartburn, indigestion or headaches?

Here’s our guide to 10 common pregnancy complaints (and how to avoid them).

Your emotional wellbeing

Pregnancy hormones, as well as everyday life can make it harder to deal with stressful situations. If you feel overwhelmed, talk to your midwife or doctor about it. This might help relieve some of the anxiety and stress. You may also want to make a pregnancy and post-birth plan to help you think about how you’re feeling.

Read our guide to dealing with your emotions in pregnancy.

Trust your instincts

It’s important to tell your midwife or doctor if you have any symptoms you are concerned about. Don’t worry if you've talked about it before and don't be concerned about whether you're wasting anyone's time. It’s always best to get checked out. 

What to do in week 27

Don’t forget your pelvic floor

You’re probably tired of hearing this, but toning up your pelvic floor muscles is worth it.

It can be helpful to link your pelvic floor exercises to something you do a couple of times a day, such as waiting for the train or waiting for the kettle to boil. This will make it easy to remember to do them.

Premature labour

Premature labour is labour that happens before the 37th week of pregnancy. About 8 out of 100 babies will be born prematurely.

Call your midwife or maternity unit if you're less than 37 weeks pregnant and you have:

• regular contractions or tightenings 
• period-type pains
• a gush or trickle of fluid from your vagina – this could be your waters breaking
• backache that's not usual for you.

Some people have Braxton Hicks at this point in pregnancy. It’s always best to contact your midwife or maternity unit for advice if you are not sure whether you are having Braxton Hicks or labour contractions.