Week 27 of your pregnancy is likely to be a rollercoaster of emotions. You may be feeling down and out, and it's normal to be feeling impatient and irritable at this stage. You may be experiencing bloating and other uncomfortable sensations.
Your body
What to expect in Week 27
You are feeling tired and need naps during the day. You could also be feeling quite short-tempered and outspoken. Worrying a lot more about what’s best for you and your baby. Your feet are swelling up and you will find putting on your shoes difficult. Your skin around your belly feels stretched, dry and itchy. For more tips on what to expect in the second trimester click here.
Baby size
What to expect
Your baby is the size of a Cabbage (roughly 36 cm long and 840 gms in weight).
Your baby
What to expect
Many developments have taken place. Baby’s lungs are capable of breathing. Baby’s organs are maturing and his or her skin is not as wrinkly. Baby is nearly a foot long and two pounds in weight – double what it was four weeks ago. Baby can now recognise your husband’s voice. Ask him to speak to the baby. Baby responds to your eating too spicy food by hiccupping!
Taking care of yourself
Tips
- Sleep on your sides and not on your back. Some recommend sleeping on your left side. Sleeping on the back can double the risk of stillbirth.
- Sleep with your feet elevated.
- Avoid sitting or standing for a long time. If your feet are swelling excessively consult your doctor.
- Use a cool damp compress to relieve heat rash.
- Place cool cucumber slices under your eyes for puffiness under the eyes, especially when you wake up in the morning.
- Look on the bright side of things – most of the discomfort you are experiencing will pass off after delivery!
Ask your doctor
- During any activity, I feel quite breathless and can’t talk at the same time. I feel my heart pounding too. Is that normal?
- My feet are swollen to the point that I can’t squeeze my feet into my shoes. Is that normal?
- Have I gained enough weight? Should I be doing anything more for a healthy pregnancy?
- Should I be attending special classes in preparation for delivery?
Actions
To do list
- Make sure you sleep on your sides.
- Support your bump with a pillow and another pillow between your knees when you go to sleep.
- Record your weight and blood pressure.
- Learn some soothing yoga-based relaxation techniques.
- Ask your husband to put his ears against my belly to hear the baby’s heartbeat.
Kushal workshops are conducted once a week to help pregnant women learn how to stay physically and mentally healthy.
Your Concerns
I feel like I have indigestion all the time. How do I stop that?
“Changing my diet helped. I stopped Cabbage, Raddish and such had more Spinach and carrots. I was also asked to drink plenty of water and opt for smaller meals.”
If you are pregnant and experiencing indigestion, you are not alone! Hormonal changes and the pressure of the growing uterus can cause indigestion, but there are some steps you can take to help alleviate your symptoms.
Try eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day instead of three large meals, and avoid spicy, fatty, and acidic foods. Drink plenty of water to help flush out toxins and aid digestion, and stay upright after eating.
Wear loose-fitting clothes, and consider trying natural remedies like ginger tea or peppermint oil to soothe your stomach.
Additionally, talk to your healthcare provider about safe antacids or other medications that can help. Remember, indigestion during pregnancy is usually temporary and will resolve on its own after delivery. However, if your symptoms persist or worsen, be sure to speak to your healthcare provider to rule out any other underlying conditions.
I am short-tempered and lose my temper easily. This is not me!
“You act out intuitively when pregnant. After all, you have to take care of yourself and your baby. Setting boundaries is good. It’ll help later too.”
These are common symptoms of hormonal changes. Here are some tips to help you manage your mood swings and feel more like yourself: Practice self-care, get enough sleep, stay active, talk to someone, practice mindfulness, and don't be afraid to ask for help. If your symptoms are getting in the way of your daily life, it's important to talk to your healthcare provider for additional support and resources. Don't forget, you're not alone!
Pregnancy Stress Management
Stress and pregnancy
Department of Health, Australia
Disclaimer
Kushal's website provides health, fitness, and nutrition recommendations for informational purposes only. The information provided is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any health concerns, you should always check with your healthcare provider.