Week 27
Your Baby's Development
By this first week of the third trimester, your baby looks similar to what he or
she will look like at birth, just thinner and smaller. The lungs, liver, and
immune system still need to fully mature, but if born now, your baby would have a
very good chance of surviving.
As hearing continues to develop, your baby may start to recognize your voice as well as your partner's. Sounds may be muffled, though, because the ears are still covered with vernix, the thick waxy coating that protects the skin from becoming chapped by the amniotic fluid.
Your Body
Your body continues to protect and nourish your baby. But what happens
when it's time to meet your little one? Consider signing up for childbirth classes
through your local community center or hospital to learn about labor, options for
pain relief, and what to expect after delivery. You'll also learn about common
newborn problems, babyproofing,
breastfeeding and formula
feeding, and infant CPR. Learning
all you can about birth and babies will help you feel more confident, especially if
you're a first-time parent.