At 26 weeks pregnant, you’re nearing the end of your second trimester and you can’t wait for you due date.
But there’s still more in store for you at this stage, for both you and your baby.
Here’s what you can expect at 26 weeks of pregnancy.
Your Baby at 26 Weeks of Pregnancy
At 26 weeks, your baby is now about the size of a squash, weighing almost 900 grams and measuring approximately 23 centimetres from crown to rump.
She’s a quarter of her expected birth weight, and her body is rapidly developing.
Her wrinkly skin is beginning to smooth out as fat deposits increase, and her spine is growing stronger to support her tiny frame.
Here’s what’s going on with your baby at 26 weeks of pregnancy:
- Fingernails: Fingernails have fully formed and are extending near her fingertips, meaning your baby might need a manicure soon after birth!
- Sense of taste: Taste buds are also functional now, and studies suggest that even unborn babies show a preference for sweet flavours when their mothers eat something sugary.
- Movement: Your baby’s movements are more robust, so those ‘flutters’ you felt weeks ago have become noticeable kicks, which your partner can now feel, too.
- Brain and spine: Significant strengthening and maturation continue.
- Heartbeat: Your baby may experience arrhythmias, or irregular heartbeats. Your doctor will be able to detect this during your next prenatal visit. They are usually harmless and will resolve without treatment.
If your baby were to be born now, she would have an 80% chance of survival with medical support, thanks to the rapid development of her lungs and other vital organs.
However, your baby will still be considered premature and will need to be monitored closely by doctors to ensure they have everything they need.
Every week now is a step closer to a strong and healthy birth.
Your Body at 26 Weeks of Pregnancy
As your baby grows, so does your body. It may be harder and harder for you to move around.
In fact you may be extra clumsy now that you are 26 weeks pregnant. And as we learned from the previous week, preventing accidents and falls are important going forward.
Other symptoms we discussed previous will still be lingering and this is normal: sleep disturbances, itchiness, dry skin, cravings, backache, incontinence, nasal congestion, shortness of breath, and heartburn and pelvic discomfort.
Aside from that, here’s what else is happening with your body at 26 weeks of pregnancy:
- Braxton Hicks contractions: These ‘practice contractions’ are normal and typically painless, lasting 30 seconds to 2 minutes. They’re not a sign of labour but rather your body’s way of preparing for the big day.
- Pregnancy brain: Forgetfulness, clumsiness, and vivid dreams are all part of what’s affectionately called ‘pregnancy brain’.
- Fatigue: Fatigue may start to creep in again as your metabolic rate increases, your body adjusts to carrying extra weight, and hormonal changes intensify.
The mental and emotional changes of pregnancy can also take you by surprise. You may still be going through intense mood swings.
It’s important to be kind to yourself during these episodes and recognise that it’s normal to experience periods of extreme highs and lows.
Take this time to listen to your body. Rest when you can, stay hydrated, and try to embrace the changes as your body continues to nurture your growing baby.
Sleeping Positions
Finding a comfortable sleeping position becomes increasingly challenging as your belly grows.
Sleeping on your stomach is nearly impossible at this stage, and lying on your back for extended periods can compress the inferior vena cava, a large blood vessel, potentially causing nausea and dizziness.
Here’s how you can ensure that both you and your baby are comfortable while you sleep through the night:
- Side-sleeping: Lying on your left side is ideal, as it allows blood to flow more freely through the major blood vessels near your spine.
- Pillows for support: Place a pillow between your legs and one under your belly for added comfort.
- Pregnancy body pillows: These specially designed pillows can make sleeping easier, though they might take up some extra space in bed.
Experiment with what works best for you to ensure you get the rest your body needs.
If you find yourself inadvertently sleeping on your back, don’t panic. Turn to your side and continue sleeping in that position.
Sex During Pregnancy
Pregnancy doesn’t mean putting your love life on hold, though you and your partner may need to adapt to your changing body.
You may still be able to do things the regular way just a few weeks before, but at 26 weeks pregnant, not so much.
Many familiar positions might become uncomfortable, least of all, lying on your back, as explained previously.
Experimenting with alternatives that accommodate your growing belly is key.
Here are some tips to make your sex life a bit more comfortable now that you’re expecting:
- Communication: Discuss what feels comfortable and what doesn’t.
- Experiment: Explore new positions that offer support and comfort.
- Babymoon: Consider a relaxing getaway to reconnect before the baby arrives.
A babymoon—which is an actual honeymoon trip that you take with your spouse before your baby’s arrival—can also provide an opportunity to relax and strengthen your bond as a couple.
Whether it’s a weekend staycation or a more adventurous trip, focus on enjoying each other’s company (there may not be many opportunities for that anymore once the baby comes).
Going with the Flow
At 26 weeks pregnant, you’re moving closer to the final trimester, with your baby growing stronger and your body continuing to adapt.
Embrace the journey by staying attuned to your needs and cherishing the moments of connection with your baby and partner.
Every week brings new milestones and memories, making this phase of your pregnancy truly remarkable.
References
- Curtis, G. B., & Schuler, J. (2016). Your Pregnancy Week by Week (8th ed.). Hachette Books.
- Kaye, P. (2021). Your Pregnancy: Week by Week. SPCK Publishing.
- Riley, L. (2006). You and Your Pregnancy: Your Ultimate Week-by-Week Pregnancy Guide. Meredith Books.
- Shanahan, M. K. (2002). Your Over-35 Week-by-Week Pregnancy Guide. Da Capo Press
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
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