Welcome to week 27 of your pregnancy, your baby is approximately the size of a cauliflower!

At 27 weeks, your baby's heart rate has slowed to around 140 beats per minute, which is still considerably faster than your own heart rate. This rapid heartbeat is a sign of their growing strength and vitality as they continue to develop in the womb.

While your baby's brain, lungs and digestive system are now formed, they're not fully mature and are still busy developing. Each day brings them closer to being ready for life outside the womb, but there's still a little fine-tuning to do.

Nosebleeds are quite common in pregnancy due to hormonal changes, and while they can be a nuisance, they're usually nothing to worry about. Simple treatments that you can do at home, such as applying gentle pressure to the nose, can help stop the bleeding and provide relief.

While not everyone gets them, stretch marks a natural part of pregnancy for some women. They may appear on your tummy, thighs or breasts as your body expands to accommodate your growing baby. Some creams claim to remove stretch marks once they've appeared, but there is no reliable evidence that they work. It's important to know they're not harmful, they don't cause medical problems. They typically fade with time and become less noticeable over the months following your baby's arrival.

You're almost in your third trimester now - did you know that sleeping on your side during your third trimester can reduce the risk of stillbirth? Learn more about why you should sleep on your side.

Remember to stay attuned to your baby's movements during this time - their regular movement is a reassuring indicator of their wellbeing. If you notice any changes, such as a decrease in movements, call your maternity unit for guidance straight away. You might find a Kicks Count wristband helpful for getting to know what's normal for your baby.

If your labour begins before 37 weeks, it's considered premature, and your baby may need special care in the hospital. It's essential to familiarise yourself with the signs of premature labour and know when to seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms.

While it may be tempting to use a home doppler to check on your baby's heartbeat, these devices are not always reliable. Trust your instincts and seek professional medical advice if you have any concerns about your baby's wellbeing. 

⬅️  YOUR PREGNANCY: WEEK 28

➡️  YOUR PREGNANCY: WEEK 26

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