Votre Bébé à 27 Semaines

A Closer Look at Week 27

Welcome to the final week of the second trimester! At 27 weeks, your baby is about the size of a cauliflower and is displaying increasingly complex behaviour. They now sleep and wake at regular intervals, sometimes synchronising with your own schedule and sometimes keeping their own hours (often most active when you are trying to sleep). During quiet periods, your baby may suck their thumb — a self-soothing behaviour that provides comfort and also strengthens the muscles needed for feeding after birth.

Brain development is proceeding at a remarkable pace. The surface of the brain, which was relatively smooth, is developing the characteristic grooves and folds (sulci and gyri) that dramatically increase its surface area and processing power. More neural connections are forming every second, building the intricate networks that will support thought, emotion, memory, and movement for a lifetime.

Shortness of breath is a common symptom in the late second and early third trimesters. As the uterus continues to expand upward, it pushes the diaphragm (the large flat muscle that controls breathing) into a higher position, reducing the space available for your lungs to fully expand. This can make catching your breath feel more difficult, particularly after climbing stairs or exerting yourself. The shortness of breath is usually harmless, but if it is sudden, severe, or accompanied by chest pain, seek medical attention.

If you haven't already looked into childbirth education classes, this is an excellent time to book one. Classes cover a range of topics including the stages of labour, breathing and relaxation techniques, pain management options, breastfeeding basics, and newborn care. Attending with a partner can help you both feel more prepared and connected as the big day approaches.