Week 27 Pregnancy

Third Trimester

Last reviewed: July 2026

27 weeks pregnant at a glance

You are in the third trimester.
Your baby is roughly the size of a cauliflower.
Midwife appointment (28 weeks).
Every pregnancy is different, so don't worry if your experience varies slightly.

You are 27 weeks pregnant and in your third trimester. Your baby is about the size of a cauliflower. This week's key development: Closing the Second Trimester. NHS note: Midwife appointment (28 weeks).

This page is for general pregnancy planning and date guidance only. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Pregnancy dates are estimates and can change after a scan or advice from your midwife, GP, or maternity team. Always speak to a qualified healthcare professional if you have symptoms, concerns, or questions about your pregnancy.

Week 26

Week 28

Baby's Development

Your baby is about the size of a cauliflower.

Closing the Second Trimester — The brain is developing more complex folds and grooves, increasing surface area at a remarkable rate. Your baby's lungs are maturing, and they're practising rhythmic breathing movements. The second trimester is drawing to a close — you're two-thirds of the way there.

Cauliflower

Approx. 36.6cm

Your Symptoms

Shortness of breath
Swelling
Vivid dreams

Every pregnancy is different. You may experience all, some, or none of these symptoms — and that's completely normal. If anything concerns you, speak to your midwife.

NHS Appointments

Midwife appointment (28 weeks). You'll have blood tests for anaemia and antibodies.

Practical Advice for Week 27

Nutrition

Continue vitamin D daily.
Your calorie needs increase slightly in the third trimester — about 200 extra calories per day.
Eat iron-rich foods — your blood volume peaks around week 28.
Protein is essential for your baby's growth — include it at every meal.

Exercise

Keep up gentle exercise — it helps with sleep, mood, and labour preparation.
Swimming is particularly helpful for relieving swelling and back pain.
Practise birth positions — squatting, kneeling, and using a birth ball.
If you feel short of breath during exercise, slow down — your lungs are competing for space.

Wellbeing

Vivid dreams may return as the third trimester begins.
Swelling in your feet and ankles is normal — elevate them when you can.
Shortness of breath improves when the baby drops later in pregnancy.
Pack your hospital bag — being prepared reduces anxiety.

Preparation

Your midwife appointment around 28 weeks includes blood tests for anaemia and antibodies.
If you're Rhesus negative, you'll be offered an anti-D injection.
Write your birth plan if you haven't started yet.
Tour the delivery suite at your hospital if tours are available.

Tip of the Week

Pack your hospital bag! It's better to be prepared early.

Frequently Asked Questions for Week 27

How many months is 27 weeks pregnant?

At 27 weeks pregnant, you are roughly 6 months pregnant. Remember that pregnancy is typically measured in weeks rather than months for clinical accuracy.

What size is the baby at 27 weeks?

At 27 weeks, your baby is roughly the size of a cauliflower (about 36.6cm). The brain is developing more complex folds and grooves, increasing surface area at a remarkable rate. Your baby's lungs are maturing, and they're practising rhythmic breathing movements. The second trimester is drawing to a close

What are the common symptoms at 27 weeks pregnant?

Common symptoms at this stage include shortness of breath, swelling, vivid dreams. Remember that every pregnancy is unique, and it's normal to experience different symptoms.

Is 27 weeks in the third trimester?

Yes, 27 weeks falls within the third trimester.

Are there any NHS appointments at 27 weeks?

Midwife appointment (28 weeks). You'll have blood tests for anaemia and antibodies.