27th Week: Celebrating Life’s Little Surprises
Hello, inquisitive mommies! I can sense your curiosity and I’m thrilled to be here with your weekly dose of baby growth and development. This week is filled with surprises and I can hardly wait to dive in. So, let’s begin this exciting journey.
Our baby is growing, both inside and out, with dimensions now ranging from 34 cm to 36 cm – roughly the size of a fully grown cauliflower. However, there’s a special twist to this tale: even though your baby can hear you, their ears are still protected by a waxy substance known as vernix often called birthing custard. It’s this waxy white coating that wraps your baby’s delicate skin, providing them with protection and nourishment.
If you’ve been experiencing some peculiar or unusual movements from your baby lately, rest assured, it’s probably hiccups! This is actually a reassuring sign that your baby’s lungs are fully functional and continuing to develop. Our little one may even flash a tiny smile, especially while they’re sleeping. And if luck is on your side, you might just get a glimpse of this during an ultrasound – a moment of sheer joy!
Our little gymnast is diligently developing muscle tone, all thanks to those constant kicks, rolls and punches. So, dear mama, remember to nourish yourself with a diet rich in nutrients. Those tiny eyes that have been closed for over four months are now eagerly waiting to see the world. By this week, our baby can perceive light and shadows. It’s fascinating to know that they’ve accumulated nearly 50% of their body fat, though it will eventually settle at around 30% when they are born.
Now, let’s talk about some common symptoms you might encounter during this 27th week:
- Extra body hair: Pregnancy often brings hormonal changes, including increased estrogen and androgen levels. These changes can lead to various transformations in your body, including thicker and darker body hair. Some women may notice this increase in hair growth on areas like the face, arms, legs and even the stomach, a condition known as hirsutism.
- Restless legs: Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a condition characterised by an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations like tingling, crawling, or aching. It’s more common during pregnancy and can cause discomfort and sleep disturbances. While its exact cause during pregnancy is unknown, factors such as hormonal changes, iron deficiencies and pressure on leg nerves due to the growing uterus may contribute.
- Swelling: Swelling in the feet and ankles is another common symptom in pregnancy. Maintaining a balanced posture and following a restricted diet can help manage issues arising from swelling.
- Leaky breasts: Leaking breasts, or colostrum leakage, is a normal physiological change during pregnancy. Colostrum is the early milk produced by the breasts before mature breast milk. It’s often thick and yellowish. While it can occur as early as the second trimester, it’s more common in the third. Increased levels of the hormone prolactin, responsible for milk production, lead to the secretion of colostrum.
- Vivid dreams: Vivid dreams are a common experience for many pregnant women. These dreams can be particularly detailed, intense, or emotionally charged compared to usual dreams. The prevalence and intensity of vivid dreams during pregnancy can vary among women and at different stages of pregnancy.
- Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS): CTS is a condition that affects the nerves in the wrist, causing numbness, tingling and pain in the hand and fingers. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can lead to fluid retention, which can increase pressure on nerves, including the median nerve, potentially contributing to CTS symptoms.
During the 27th week of pregnancy, there are certain routine tests and screenings that may be recommended by your healthcare provider.
- Blood tests
- Urine tests
- Group B Streptococcus screening
- Electronic foetal heart rate monitoring
- Ultrasound scan
In conclusion, this week has provided insights into your baby’s well-being and your symptomatic development. There’s no need to stress. Your baby is ready to hear you and can even respond, so keep sharing good vibes with them. May the best continue to bless you and your little one. Until we meet again next week, goodbye!
Recipe for the 27th week – Mixed Fruit Salad
INGREDIENTS
- Guava – 100 gms
- Kiwi – 1 no
- Muskmelon – 100 gms
- Banana – 1 small
- Chia seed – 10 gms
- Pumpkin seed – 10 gms
METHOD
1.Begin by soaking chia seeds for 1 hour, allowing them to absorb liquid and expand.
2.While the chia seeds soak, roast pumpkin seeds over medium heat until they become fragrant, then set them aside.
3.Next, prepare the fruits by cutting them into small, bite-sized pieces.
4.In a mixing bowl, combine all the fresh, vibrant fruits. Add the soaked chia seeds and the roasted pumpkin seeds for a delightful blend of flavours and textures.
5.Gently mix the ingredients to ensure an even distribution of the seeds among the fruits.
6.For a refreshing twist, serve the fruit salad chilled, allowing the flavours to meld together.
NUTRITIONAL VALUE
- Guava – 36 mg of magnesium, 2.6 gms of protein
- Kiwi – 31 mg of magnesium, 23.5 mg of calcium
- Muskmelon – 5% of vitamin b6
- Banana – 450 mg of potassium, 1 gm of protein.
- Chia seeds – 8 gms of heart healthy fats.
- Pumpkin seeds – 8.5 gms of protein, 15 mg of calcium.
NUTRITIONAL BENEFITS
Chia seeds: These tiny seeds are a powerhouse of nutrients, offering fibre, omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. They absorb liquid, creating a gel-like consistency that can help with digestion and keep you feeling full.
Pumpkin seeds: Roasted pumpkin seeds add a satisfying crunch to the salad. They are a source of protein, healthy fats and essential minerals like magnesium and zinc.
Vitamins and minerals: A mixed fruit salad provides a wide range of essential vitamins (such as vitamin C, vitamin A and various B vitamins) and minerals (like potassium, magnesium and folate). These nutrients are vital for both maternal health and foetal development.
Fibre-rich: Fruits are naturally high in dietary fibre, which aids digestion and helps prevent constipation, a common issue during pregnancy.
Hydration: Many fruits have a high water content, contributing to overall hydration, which is crucial during pregnancy to support increased blood volume and amniotic fluid.
Antioxidants: Fruits are rich in antioxidants, including vitamins C and E, which help protect cells from oxidative stress and may reduce the risk of certain pregnancy complications.
Folate: Some fruits, such as oranges, contain folate (or folic acid), a crucial nutrient for preventing neural tube defects and supporting proper foetal development.
Energy source: The natural sugars in fruits provide a quick source of energy, helping combat pregnancy-related fatigue.
Healthy snacking: A mixed fruit salad makes for a convenient and healthy snack option, satisfying cravings for something sweet and nutritious.
Weight management: Fruits are generally low in calories and high in nutrients, making them suitable for those who want to manage their weight during pregnancy.
Immune support: The vitamin C in fruits boosts the immune system, which can be beneficial during pregnancy when immunity is somewhat compromised.
Digestive comfort: The fibre in fruits can help alleviate digestive discomfort, such as bloating and gas, which can be common during pregnancy.
Reduced risk of gestational diabetes: A diet rich in fruits has been associated with a lower risk of developing gestational diabetes.
Customizable: You can customise this salad by using your favourite fruits, adding a drizzle of honey or a squeeze of citrus for extra flavour if desired.
Overall, this fruit salad is a nutritious and refreshing option that can be enjoyed as a snack, breakfast, or dessert. It’s an excellent way to increase your fruit and seed intake.A mixed fruit salad is a highly beneficial addition to a pregnancy diet. It provides essential nutrients, supports hydration, aids digestion and offers a range of health benefits. However, it’s important to be mindful of food safety during pregnancy, ensuring that fruits are properly washed and prepared to reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses.
Additionally, individuals with specific dietary restrictions or gestational diabetes should consult with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for personalised dietary guidance. Overall, incorporating a variety of fruits into your diet can contribute to a healthy and enjoyable pregnancy.
Wishing you a joyous and healthy pregnancy journey!
Always only speak to a health care service provider for all pregnancy related queries and diet recommendations.
