Your Pregnancy at Week 27

Congratulations! You are officially at the end of your second trimester.

Muscle cramps in your legs may become more and more common as your pregnancy progresses. This isn't just caused by the extra weight your body is carrying around; alas, your slowed circulation and compressed nerves are adding to this particular problem too. Stretching your legs, calves, ankles, and feet, or booking in for a pregnancy massage are two great ways to deal with these annoying leg cramps!

Iron Intake

Did you know... the average woman needs 15mg of iron a day. But the average pregnant woman needs twice that amount, about 30 mg, per day. Iron is essential in the production of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells, which carry oxygen to other cells. While you're pregnant, your body holds about 50 percent more blood volume than it normally does. Ergo, your body needs more iron to produce more haemoglobin. You also need extra iron for your baby and the placenta. 

You can always ask your midwife or doctor for a complete list of foods rich in iron, but some high-iron foods include red meat, eggs, peas, dried fruit, dark leafy greens, and legumes. Liver can be a good source of iron, but it contains high levels of vitamin A. You should avoid liver until after labour and delivery.

It may be hard to get enough iron from your diet alone. If you are worried about your iron levels and aren't able to fit more into your daily diet, ask your midwife or GP about an iron supplement, if one is right for you.

>Are you feeling overly stressed? If you are unable to manage your pregnancy emotions, you may need to talk with a professional and learn healthy ways to manage your stress (an any out-of-control anxiety you might feel, as well). Various studies throughout the years have shown that pregnancy is one of the top ranked causes of stress, and stress is unhealthy for your baby. To help you cope, try different breathing techniques, meditation styles, yoga classes, talk therapies, or go for a simple girls night out!

You are officially at the end of your second trimester, and might start to be spotting some new symptoms emerge as you reach the final stretch of your pregnancy. Below is a list of pregnancy symptoms commonly experienced during week 27.

Unwanted hair growth: Some women may experience unwanted hair growth in areas such as the face, abdomen, or back. These changes are normal and often return to normal after childbirth.

Sweating: Hormonal fluctuations can lead to increased sweating during pregnancy, especially in the second trimester. This is the body's way of regulating its temperature. Wearing breathable clothing and staying hydrated before bed can help manage sweating. Here’s how to keep cool during pregnancy.

Heartburn: As your uterus expands, it can put a lot of pressure on your stomach, leading to acid reflux and heartburn. Eating smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding trigger foods like spicy or greasy dishes can help alleviate discomfort. Here’s more on heartburn during pregnancy.

Stronger nails: Pregnancy hormones can sometimes lead to stronger nails! Enjoy this perk of pregnancy, but keep in mind that these changes may not be permanent.

Thicker hair: Many pregnant women experience thicker, fuller hair during pregnancy due to hormonal changes. This is often attributed to increased levels of oestrogen, which prolongs the growth phase of hair.

Tingling, numbness, or pain in your hands and wrists: Carpal tunnel syndrome, characterised by tingling, numbness, or pain in the hands and wrists, is common during this stage of pregnancy due to fluid retention and swelling. Wearing a wrist splint and practicing gentle exercises may provide relief.
Foetal hiccups: You may start to feel your baby experiencing hiccups, which are a normal part and exciting of foetal development. These rhythmic movements, typically felt as a repetitive, rhythmic tapping sensation, occur as your baby practices breathing and swallowing amniotic fluid. It's a lovely reminder of your little one's presence…unless it’s at 3am!

Backaches and/or leg cramps: The additional weight and shift in your centre of gravity during pregnancy can strain your back muscles, leading to backaches. Gentle stretching and prenatal yoga can provide relief. Here’s how to ease pregnancy aches and pains.

Crazy dreams: Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy can result in vivid and sometimes unusual dreams. This is a common phenomenon and is usually harmless. Here’s a guide to pregnancy dreams.

Remember, every pregnancy is different, and not everyone will experience the same symptoms. If you have any concerns about your symptoms, don't hesitate to reach out to your midwife or GP.

As you approach your third trimester, you may want to consider getting registered for a birthing class, if you haven't already. If you have any interest in a specific method, such as the hypnobirthing, you may want to ask your midwife, obstetrician, or experienced friends, for some recommendations. 

If you haven't already, now is also the time to put together a birth plan. This doesn't have to be anything formal. It can be as simple as discussing your options with your doctor ensuring your preferences are known. 

Have a clear understanding of the experience you want for your labour and delivery. As you prepare, keep in mind that you can't control every aspect of the delivery. The best you can do is plan for what you want and be prepared for the unknown.