26 Weeks Pregnant: What To Expect?
26 weeks pregnant is five months and about three weeks pregnant. You are now making your way through the sixth month of pregnancy.
Baby’s Growth During Pregnancy – Week 26
At 26 weeks pregnant, your baby’s nostrils are starting to open up, which gives them the chance to practice breathing using those newly developed muscles and lungs. There’s no air to take in, of course, so instead they “inhale” and “exhale” amniotic fluid.
Your baby’s sucking reflex is so strong that if their hand floats by their face, they might suck on their thumb or fingers. Ultrasounds often show babies in utero sucking their thumbs.
You must have noticed the strong grip a baby has when you let them hold your finger. Those skills are getting ready right now inside you. Your baby is practicing their killer clutch right now. Their favorite pull toy is their umbilical cord, but you don’t have to worry because the cord is built to take it.
Your baby’s response to sound is also growing more consistent as their brain becomes more developed. They are able to hear more distinctly now and may be able to pick out the distinct voices of you and your partner. This early recognition will help them to bond with you and your partner once the baby is born.
What is the Baby’s Size?
At 26 weeks pregnant, a baby is as big as a cabbage. Your 26-week fetus measures about 14 inches and weighs about 1.7 pounds. He or she is developing senses and even features now.
26-week Symptoms of Pregnancy
- Higher blood pressure
A slight boost in blood pressure is normal at 26 weeks pregnant. If your doctor sees too high of a boost though, they might have you monitored more closely. Always inform your doctor about the changes you feel in your body.
As your uterus grows, the round ligaments supporting it have to stretch. Occasionally, these stretched-out ligaments will cause a sharp pain or a dull ache in your lower abdomen, usually on one side or the other. It’s probably most noticeable when you change positions or get up suddenly. Rest usually offers the best relief.
- Swollen feet and/or hands
Swelling can be an annoying pregnancy symptom. It’s nothing to worry about as long as the swelling isn’t sudden or severe. If does look severe, tell your doctor right away.
As your uterus expands, it pushes against your lungs, causing you to feel short of breath. Don’t push yourself too hard, and sit down and rest if you feel yourself gasping for air.
- Pregnancy brain
Forgetting things too often? Well, there is no sure reason to what causes pregnant women to become more forgetful. It could be biological or it just could be a result of having lots on your mind.
- Braxton Hicks contractions
You may have noticed your belly occasionally feeling really tight and that’s actually a contraction. Braxton Hicks might be more noticeable for women who are 26 weeks pregnant with twins. It’s nothing to worry about. It is just your muscles flexing to practice for labor. Tell your doctor if the contractions are painful or don’t stop as those can be signs of preterm labor.
26 weeks pregnant belly
Your belly will keep growing about a half inch each week for the rest of your pregnancy. When you touch your 26 weeks pregnant belly, you will notice the top of your uterus is about 2.5 inches above your belly button. It is time for maternity clothing!
26 Weeks Ultrasound
Typically, there is no 26-week ultrasound. This will make you anxious for all that is happening inside your body. Few activities going inside you are-
Baby is taking breaths and inhaling of amniotic fluid, not air. Baby is just getting their immune system ready for life on the outside by soaking up your antibodies. And also, the baby’s eyes are forming, and their eyes will soon start to open. The cutest things are when baby bat their eyelashes and guess what? Your baby has already grown eyelashes and soon they will start batting them.
PREGNANCY CHECKLIST AT 26-WEEKS PREGNANCY
- Communicate with your baby
- Spend time with your partner
- Find out some easy yoga poses that will help you build strength in your back and pelvis.
- Carry around small, portable snacks like fruit or yogurt
Also Read: 25 Weeks Pregnant: What To Expect?
