26 Weeks Pregnant: What to Expect

An important milestone, the 26th week of pregnancy is marked by several important changes in the baby’s development Read on for more information on what to expect at this stage in pregnancy.

Your Baby’s Growth During Pregnancy Week 26

By the 26th week the following developments will have taken place in your baby

• Development of the immune system – By this time the baby’s immune system has developed.

• Development of the sensory organs – During this time the baby’s eyes and ears have developed and she can hear you and your partner.

• Growing brain activity – At the 26th week the baby will start responding to noises outside which causes an increase in the activity level. She may even respond to sudden noises with a kick.

What is the Size of the Baby?

At 26 weeks pregnant, the baby’s size is about 35 cms, and she weighs approximately 900 grams.

Common Body Changes

As you as your pregnancy advances, the changes in your body continue- some obvious, and others more subtle. Here are some of the body changes that take place during pregnancy.

• The uterus will have grown more than 2 inches above your belly button.

• Some women may experience pain under the ribs because the baby starts kicking and stretching inside the uterus. Change your position when sitting standing or lying down can help you get some relief from this pain. You may also experience back pain because of the weight gain.

• You may have gained about 14 to 28 pounds by the 26th week of pregnancy. You should avoid weighing yourself frequently as the body weight will keep fluctuating due to water retention.

Symptoms of Pregnancy at Week 26

The 26th week of pregnancy can be an uncomfortable phase as the baby starts to grow and your body starts making changes for childbirth.

• Trouble sleeping – As you approach the final day, it may become tougher to rest. You should watch your caffeine intake, consume enough fluids and exercise or take walks, which will help the body rest at night.

• Swelling – You become slightly bloated during this time Mild swelling around this point is normal, but you should be watchful of any sudden changes in weight. The reason could be a condition named preeclampsia which is marked by a spike in blood pressure.

• Headache – You may experience headaches due to hormonal fluctuations or stress. However, there could be other reasons for the headache like hunger or dehydration, so it important that you take care of your baby and yourself by eating at short intervals and consuming fluids.

• Forgetfulness or issues in remembering – This is an extremely stressful time for any woman because of all the hormonal changes as well as the rapid changes taking place. The rush of hormones may cause forgetfulness, and you may struggle to remember stuff.

• Braxton Hicks contractions – These contractions are experienced more frequently during the 26th week especially if you are expecting twins. There is no cause for worry as long as they are not steady or severe. In case your contractions have become painful and non-stop then you should consult the doctor immediately.

• High blood pressure – A slightly high blood pressure during this time is normal. However, if your doctor observes too much fluctuation then you may be kept under observation. The reason could be hypertension, which could a sign of preeclampsia or HELLP syndrome. Both of these are complications which require immediate treatment.

• Round ligament pain – This is a jabbing pain which is felt in the groin or lower abdomen.

• Difficulty in breathing – This is caused by the growing baby takes up more space, pushing against your diaphragm.

• Symphysis pubis dysfunction – This is caused when the hormone relaxin, loosens the ligaments which hold the pelvic bones, too early.

• Cramping in the legs – Caused by the increase in weight and the pressure of the baby on the blood vessels, cramps are a symptom which may become more frequent at this stage.

• Pain in the jaw, knees and other joints – As the body prepares for delivery, the joints loosen up, causing aches and pains.

• Swelling or puffiness – This is caused in the different body parts due to the retention of water.

• Formation of gas, bloating and constipation – Like your lungs, your digestive system is cramped too, leading to these issues.

• Acidity and heartburn due to indigestion – Heartburn is caused as the stomach acids flow back into the gut because of the relaxing of valves.

• Itchiness – As the belly grows, the skin on it stretches, causing itchiness and dry skin especially around the belly, thighs and breasts.

• Stretch marks – Also caused by the growing baby, these marks can be reduced by application of moisturising lotions.

• Insomnia and restlessness – The increase in weight and the size of your belly may make it difficult for you to find a comfortable position to sleep in.

Belly at 26th Week of Pregnancy

By the 26th week of pregnancy, you will have gained some weight. As you touch the 3rd trimester the top of your uterus will be around 2 inches above your belly button. The belly will keep growing for about 1.5 inches per week for the rest of your pregnancy.

26 Weeks Ultrasound

At 26 weeks you have reached the sixth month of pregnancy. The small changes taking place in the baby during this time are essential for her to develop her reflexes. Babies born prematurely during the 26th week have a 50% rate of survival.

This is also the week when you will get another peek at your baby as an ultrasound is conducted. In addition, glucose screening, blood tests and screening of antibodies will be performed to rule out the chances of gestational diabetes and check the Rh factor. If the result of the glucose screening is positive then the glucose tolerance test is conducted to confirm gestational diabetes.

What to Eat

Here are some suggestions for 26th week pregnancy food which will ensure a healthy intake of nutrients at this important juncture-

• Eggs and lean meats – These are a source of choline which is good for the brain development of the baby.

• Romaine lettuce – Consumption of romaine lettuce helps maintain a rich supply of vitamins B, folate, potassium, calcium.

• Fruits and vegetables – Eating fresh fruits, vegetables and high-fibre food which are high in vitamin B and fibres.

• Water – Drinking a lot of water makes sure the blood circulation is maintained, and also addresses persistent pregnancy symptoms like constipation.

• Juices – Having a glass of fresh orange juice in your breakfast every day as it is an excellent source of vitamin C.

• Green leafy vegetables – Including a lot of green leafy vegetable in the diet rich in lutein, a natural carotenoid which promotes eye-development.

Remember that eating small meals helps fight heartburn while keeping controlling the blood pressure.

Warning signs: All through your pregnancy you should always consult your doctor in case of the below-mentioned symptoms-

• Pain in the chest
• Reduced foetal movements
• Difficulty during walking

Tips & Care

By this time you will find it inconvenient to move around because of the big belly. Here are a few tips that will help you make the most of this period

Dos

• It is important that you continue to keep exercising.
• You should increase the potassium intake because the weight gain will cause stress on your body. Potassium helps in muscle cramps especially during the night. It is advisable that you join a prenatal class by the 26th week pregnancy.
• Your baby will rely on your body’s iron content so it is important to consume foods which are rich in iron.
• Try and get lots of sleep
• Have sex during pregnancy as it adds to your sense of well-being

Don’ts

• You should not smoke as smoking will result in a lower birth weight of the baby leading to greater risk of disabilities in the baby after birth.
• Do not drink alcohol as it could cause Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
• Do not consume raw uncooked meat and deli meat. These can cause listeriosis, toxoplasmosis and food poisoning.
• Do not eat unpasteurized milk products as they could cause illness and lead to miscarriage.

What You Need to Shop for

If you have not yet started shopping then you can start shopping for baby clothes, essentials and setting up the nursery by the 26th week. Since these are the final days of your pregnancy you should involve your spouse in the planning as well

Conclusion: The 26th week of pregnancy is a time when there are a lot of crucial developments taking place. It is important that you are informed and proceed through the remaining journey with confidence.

Read this article in Arabic: الأسبوع 26 من الحمل