Support and information from NCT
NCT offers reliable support and information about the various stages of pregnancy, week by week.
Your developing baby
As well as getting bigger in size and weight, your baby is likely to have made some big developments this week.
At 27 weeks pregnant their nostrils have opened and their lungs are now capable of breathing. Their central nervous system can now control their breathing too.
Getting any sleep?
You may find getting to sleep difficult if your baby starts kicking at bedtime. In fact it may be difficult sleeping anyway, as you may be snoring more, feeling uncomfortable or dreaming more intensely than usual. If so, try taking naps during the day if you can, avoid drinking too much before bed and relax in the evening by doing something you enjoy, such as reading or having a bath.
Sleeping on your left side, with your knees and back supported with pillows, relieves the pressure on the blood vessels in your back, and can make sleep more comfortable.
Thinking about breastfeeding?
Breastmilk is a living fluid and your milk is tailor-made for your own baby. It contains many ingredients which help a baby stay healthy, such as antibodies to fight germs and hormones that help your baby’s development.
However, many women become parents without ever having seen breastfeeding first hand, and feel uncertain about what to do. If you are thinking about breastfeeding, you can meet other women who are breastfeeding through NCT, find lots of support and information on our website, as well as other feeding options.
Pregnancy cravings
As well as perhaps experiencing morning sickness and tiredness, you may also be developing cravings for some foods. This could be for foods you never liked before or random mixes of food you wouldn’t otherwise eat together.
The cause of these cravings is not well understood, though it’s sometimes suggested that they reflect the body’s needs for particular nutrients.
Checklist
Have you booked your TENS machine?
Some women find TENS helpful, especially in early labour.
Further information
NCT offers reliable support and information about the various stages of pregnancy, week by week. Our support line offers practical and emotional support in many areas of pregnancy, birth and early parenthood: 0300 330 0700.
We also offer antenatal courses which are a great way to find out more about birth, labour and life with a new baby.
Make friends with other parents-to-be and new parents in your local area for support and friendship by seeing what NCT activities are happening nearby.
