At 26 weeks pregnant, you’re nearing the third trimester. Your baby’s eyes may open, while symptoms like pregnancy insomnia and clumsiness may arise.
Establish a bedtime routine for better sleep and take precautions to prevent falls. Treasure these moments and prioritize self-care. Soon, you’ll embark on the next phase of this beautiful journey.
To know more about baby development, symptoms, and tips to follow during 26 weeks of pregnancy, continue reading.
Related Blog: 25 Week Pregnant: Symptoms, Tips, and Baby Development
In this Article
26 Week Pregnant – Baby Development
- At 26 weeks, your baby is about 14.02 inches long and weighs around 1.68 pounds, which is nearly the length of a zucchini.
- Baby practices breathing by inhaling and exhaling amniotic fluid, helping develop their respiratory muscles and lungs.
- The strong sucking reflex is evident as your baby may suck on their thumb or fingers, a common sight on ultrasounds.
- Your baby’s eyes have formed completely, with visible eyebrows and eyelashes, adding to their adorable features.
- Reflexes like the startle or moro reflex, palmer grasp, and plantar grasp begin to make appearances, preparing your baby for life outside the womb.
- If you’re carrying a boy, his testicles may begin to descend into the scrotum, a crucial step in his reproductive development.
- The intestines continue to grow and mature, absorbing nutrients from the amniotic fluid and producing necessary enzymes for digestion.
26 Weeks Pregnant Is How Many Months?
At 26 weeks pregnant, you are approximately 6 months and 2 weeks, or just over halfway through your pregnancy journey. This milestone marks the beginning of the third trimester, bringing you closer to meeting your little one.
At 26 weeks pregnant, you should continue to feel regular fetal kicks. The baby is more active and stronger now. While there’s no specific number of kicks expected, you still enjoy fetal movement counting for assurance.
Related Blog: 24 Week Pregnant: Symptoms, Tips and Baby Development
26 Weeks Pregnant Bump
At 26 weeks pregnant, your bump is likely to be noticeable and growing steadily. The size of your bump can vary depending on various factors, such as your body shape and the position of the baby. On average, your uterus is about 2.5 inches above your belly button.
Regarding weight gain, it’s important to note that every pregnancy is different. Generally, by 26 weeks, you can expect to have gained around 16 to 22 pounds (7 to 10 kilograms) if you start with a healthy weight.
26 Weeks Pregnant Symptoms
- Trouble Sleeping
As your discomfort increases, you may have difficulty sleeping. To manage this, limit caffeine intake, stay hydrated, and engage in light exercise.
- Swelling
Mild swelling is normal during pregnancy, but be vigilant for sudden or severe swelling, as it could indicate a condition called preeclampsia. Notify your doctor if you have concerns.
- Headaches
Hormone fluctuations, stress, hunger, or dehydration can contribute to headaches. It’s important to eat regularly, stay hydrated, and manage stress levels.
- Pregnancy Brain
Hormonal changes may affect memory and concentration. Taking care of yourself and implementing stress management techniques can help mitigate this symptom.
- Braxton Hicks Contractions
Occasional tightening sensations in the belly, known as Braxton Hicks contractions, are normal as your body prepares for labor. However, consult your doctor if the contractions become painful or continuous.
- Higher Blood Pressure
A slight increase in blood pressure is normal at this stage. However, elevated levels may require closer monitoring for preeclampsia or HELLP syndrome, serious pregnancy complications.
- Rib Pain
Rib pain can be caused by the pressure and movements of your growing baby, hormonal changes, weight gain, and symptoms like heartburn. It is a common discomfort during pregnancy.
- Stretch Marks
Stretch marks, appearing as streaks or lines on the skin, are common in pregnancy and can cause itchiness or burning but tend to fade over time.
Related Blog: 8 Surprising Things Unborn Babies Usually Do In The Womb
26 Weeks Pregnant – Tips to Follow
- Limit evening fluids to reduce night-time bathroom trips and promote better sleep.
- Ensure meat is fully cooked by checking internal temperatures to avoid any risks.
- Stay active during pregnancy but consult your doctor for appropriate intensity and fetal movement expectations.
- Practice good hygiene when handling food, including thorough handwashing and proper cleaning of utensils and surfaces.
- Maintain good posture to alleviate back pain and support your growing belly for a more comfortable stance.
- Begin talking to your baby by reading books, singing songs, or simply narrating your day to foster a bond.
- Carry around small, portable eatables like fruit or yogurt to ensure you have nutritious options readily available.
- Register for your forthcoming delivery at your local hospital or birth center to ensure a smooth admission process when the time comes.
- Stay informed and educated about your pregnancy by accessing week-by-week expert tips on prenatal care.
Related Blog: 23 Week Pregnant: Symptoms, Tips and Baby Development
Takeaway at Twenty-Six Weeks Pregnant
At twenty-six weeks pregnant, your baby is rapidly developing. Their eyes are opening, and they may even suck on their thumb. You may experience symptoms like insomnia, swelling, headaches, and rib pain. To manage these discomforts, establish a bedtime routine, watch for severe swelling, eat regularly, and practice good posture.
Additionally, ensure the meat is fully cooked, ask loved ones to get vaccinated, and conduct safety checks on baby gifts. Stay informed about your pregnancy journey and seek expert advice for a healthy and happy experience. For exceptional gynecological care, visit Queen’s Gynecology in Delhi. Call now to schedule an appointment.
Summary
At 26 weeks pregnant, your baby’s eyes may open, and symptoms like pregnancy insomnia and clumsiness may arise. Baby development includes practicing breathing and the emergence of reflexes. Common symptoms include trouble sleeping, swelling, headaches, and rib pain. Tips to follow include establishing a bedtime routine, practicing good hygiene, and maintaining good posture. Stay informed and register for delivery. Also, seek expert tips for a healthy pregnancy.
| Week | Pregnancy Symptoms | Tips and Advice | Baby Development |
| Week 1 | – Missed period | – Take a home pregnancy test | – Fertilization occurs |
| Week 2 | – Tender breasts | – Begin taking prenatal vitamins | – Blastocyst implants in the uterus |
| Week 3 | – Fatigue | – Schedule your first prenatal visit | – Embryonic development begins |
| Week 4 | – Morning sickness starts | – Avoid alcohol, smoking, and caffeine | – Neural tube forms |
| Week 5 | – Increased urination | – Eat a balanced diet | – Heart starts beating |
| Week 6 | – Mood swings | – Stay hydrated | – Brain and head development |
| Week 7 | – Constipation | – Start gentle exercise | – Limb buds form |
| Week 8 | – Food cravings | – Get plenty of rest | – Webbed fingers and toes develop |
| Week 9 | – Weight gain begins | – Avoid raw or undercooked foods | – Tail disappears, now considered a fetus |
| Week 10 | – Visible baby bump | – Wear comfortable clothing | – Organs continue to develop |
| Week 11 | – Darkened areolas | – Practice relaxation techniques | – Baby can swallow and produce urine |
| Week 12 | – Reduced nausea | – Consider prenatal classes | – Sex organs distinguishable |
| Week 13 | – Increased energy | – Continue regular check-ups | – Baby’s fingerprints form |
| Week 14 | – Less frequent urination | – Plan for maternity leave | – Baby’s facial muscles develop |
| Week 15 | – Quickening (baby moves) | – Do pelvic floor exercises | – Baby can make facial expressions |
| Week 16 | – Round ligament pain | – Stay active with low-impact exercises | – Develops sense of hearing |
| Week 17 | – Nasal congestion | – Consider a prenatal massage | – Baby’s skeleton starts hardening |
| Week 18 | – Belly button changes | – Stay well-hydrated | – Vernix caseosa covers the skin |
| Week 19 | – Braxton Hicks contractions | – Eat small, frequent meals | – Baby’s kicks become stronger |
| Week 20 | – Leg cramps | – Begin monitoring baby’s movements | – Baby is covered in lanugo (fine hair) |
| Week 21 | – Shortness of breath | – Sleep on your side | – Eyebrows and eyelashes appear |
| Week 22 | – Linea nigra (skin darkens) | – Practice relaxation techniques | – Rapid brain development |
| Week 23 | – Backache | – Consider prenatal yoga or swimming | – Baby can recognize your voice |
| Week 24 | – Swollen ankles | – Elevate feet when sitting or lying | – Lungs continue to mature |
| Week 25 | – Increased appetite | – Continue regular prenatal check-ups | – Baby may respond to loud noises |
| Week 26 | – Heartburn | – Sleep with extra pillows for support | – Eyes open for the first time |
| Week 27 | – Braxton Hicks intensify | – Pack your hospital bag | – Baby can hiccup |
| Week 28 | – Trouble sleeping | – Monitor blood pressure | – Baby’s kicks become more regular |
| Week 29 | – Shortness of breath | – Avoid lifting heavy objects | – Baby’s bones fully developed |
| Week 30 | – Swollen hands | – Stay hydrated and avoid salt | – Baby may be head-down in preparation for birth |
| Week 31 | – Increased vaginal discharge | – Take childbirth classes | – Baby’s immune system develops |
| Week 32 | – Hemorrhoids | – Practice perineal massage | – Baby’s toenails and fingernails grow |
| Week 33 | – Trouble finding a comfortable position to sleep | – Rest and nap when possible | – Baby’s bones start to harden further |
| Week 34 | – Frequent urination | – Prepare for maternity leave | – Baby’s central nervous system matures |
| Week 35 | – Braxton Hicks increase | – Avoid prolonged standing or sitting | – Baby’s skin becomes less wrinkled |
| Week 36 | – Pelvic pressure | – Finalize birth plan | – Baby continues to gain weight |
| Week 37 | – Lightening (baby drops) | – Stay active with walking | – Baby’s head positions for birth |
| Week 38 | – Fatigue increases | – Do pelvic exercises | – Baby’s lungs are fully mature |
| Week 39 | – Cervix effacement | – Rest and conserve energy | – Baby’s immune system continues to develop |
| Week 40 | – Contractions begin | – Monitor contractions | – Baby’s digestive system is ready for breast milk |
| Week 41 | – Dilation of cervix | – Stay calm and patient during labor | – Baby’s head molds to fit through the birth canal |
Please note that every pregnancy is unique, and symptoms and developments may vary from person to person. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and care during pregnancy.
