What is colostrum and is it normal to leak?

Colostrum is the first milk your body produces for your baby. It is thick, yellowish, and rich in antibodies and nutrients. Some women begin leaking colostrum during pregnancy, which is completely normal. If you do not leak, that is also normal and does not affect your ability to breastfeed.

How is the third trimester different from the second?

The third trimester brings more physical discomfort as your baby grows larger. You may experience more back pain, swelling, heartburn, and difficulty sleeping. However, you are also getting closer to meeting your baby! Prenatal visits become more frequent, and you will focus on preparing for labor and delivery.

Third Trimester 27 weeks pregnant

Pregnancy Week 27 - Welcome to the Third Trimester!

Welcome to the third trimester! At 27 weeks, your baby is about the size of a rutabaga. Your baby is practicing breathing movements, can open their eyes, and is becoming more responsive to sounds and light. The brain is developing rapidly, forming more neural connections every day.

Rutabaga

Baby Size

36.6 cm (head to heel)

Length

875 grams

Weight

Week 27

of 42

Baby Development This Week

Your baby is practicing breathing movements regularly, inhaling and exhaling small amounts of amniotic fluid. The eyes can open and close, and your baby may respond to light by turning toward or away from it. The brain is developing rapidly, with more neural connections forming each day. The immune system is continuing to mature, and your baby is receiving antibodies from you through the placenta. Your baby now has a regular sleep-wake cycle and may be more active at certain times of day.

Changes in Your Body

The third trimester often brings new challenges. You may feel more tired as your body works harder to carry the extra weight. Shortness of breath is common as your growing uterus presses against your diaphragm. You might experience leg cramps, especially at night. Some women develop itchy skin on their abdomen. Your breasts may begin producing colostrum, the first milk for your baby. You may be feeling Braxton Hicks contractions more frequently.

Common Symptoms at Week 27

Shortness of breathLeg crampsBraxton HicksItchy skinColostrum leakageFatigue

Tips for Week 27

Start doing kick counts every day at the same time.
Consider wearing a maternity support belt for back and belly support.
Stay hydrated — aim for at least 8-10 glasses of water per day.
Begin your hospital bag packing and birth plan discussions.

When to Call Your Doctor

Contact your provider for signs of preterm labor, preeclampsia, severe headache, vision changes, painful contractions, or significantly decreased fetal movement.

Frequently Asked Questions — Week 27

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