Day 190 of 280, second trimester
You are 27 weeks and 1 day
Do all you can to stay involved in medium- and long-term plans at work, so you still feel part of the team.
90 days until your due date
The challenge of balancing motherhood and a career can start even before the birth. Depending on your job, you may be left out of long-term planning because colleagues assume you won't be around or won't come back. Some may treat you differently simply because you're pregnant, assuming you can't do your job the same way. You may feel your views are ignored because you won't be there to act on them, and it can be hard to stay motivated on a project you won't see through.
No one can be sure they'll have a job in six months or a year, but you know how much longer you'll work and may have a good idea of when you plan to return. Keep doing your job, and show through your actions that you want to contribute to every project, even those you won't see finished. If you plan to return after the baby, make that clear to anyone doubting your commitment.
You can also plan for your leave by dividing up your workload or helping find a replacement. Being organized now will make the countdown to maternity leave much easier.
Ask a Mum
Should we buy a baby bath, or can the baby use ours?
I thought a baby bath was optional, but once I had one, I found it really useful. You can use it in any room (although you'll need to carry water if there's no tap). I was nervous the first few times, and experienced parents told me even they find it tricky to hold a wriggling baby safely in water. A smaller baby bath is less daunting and helps build confidence.
But babies outgrow them by about six months, and they take up a lot of storage space (unless you pass it on to a pregnant friend). Many parents use a newborn bath seat in the family bath instead, or bathe with the baby, although the water must be tepid for the baby, which you may find too cold.
As a matter of fact
Breathing for two
As your uterus grows, it squashes your diaphragm, so you may find it hard to breathe deeply.
In fact, you're taking in more air than before. Don't fight the natural tendency to hollow your back; it opens your rib cage to let in more air and helps balance the extra weight of your belly.
Appointments and key dates around now
- Whooping cough vaccineUsually around 20 weeks, best before 32 weeks
Read the full 27 weeks pregnant guide
This is general information based on NHS guidance, not medical advice, and every pregnancy is different. Talk to your midwife or GP about anything that worries you. If your baby's movements slow down or change, or you have bleeding, severe pain or leaking fluid, call your maternity unit straight away. In an emergency, call 999.