26 Weeks Pregnant
As you enter your 26th week of pregnancy and draw closer to the end of the second trimester, you might be feeling great one day and terrible the next. This is normal and due to the many different changes happening within your body, as well as with the baby. If you have not had your glucose testing or anemia tests done yet, you should consider it, as this could help prevent and help you to understand certain ways you are feeling.
Your Baby’s Development
Your baby is growing quite gradually at this point, weighing about 2 lbs, and averaging close to 14 inches in length. During the 26th week your baby’s eyelids (which have been sealed shut) begin to open and blink on their own. The color of the eyes is blue, however this will usually change after birth, unless blue is the predestined color. The development of your baby’s eyes is almost complete, and although he or she seems very lean still, fat is definitely building underneath the skin and will continue to do so until birth. The heart is pumping blood, the lungs are developing blood vessels and the circulation system has become fully functional. The umbilical cord continues to grow stronger and thicker and is providing your baby with all of its nutrients. If you are having a boy, the testicles will move into the scrotum during this week.
Changes in Your Body
Resembling the feeling of menstrual cramps, Braxton Hicks contractions are probably becoming more frequent, as is the need to use the restroom and the need to lie down. Many women begin to experience pain in their ribs as the baby kicks and pokes between them more often while exploring inside the womb. Try changing positions to relieve the pain. You may also feel much more back pain due to the amount of weight gain, which should be about 20-23 lbs at this point. Also, try to avoid weighing yourself daily or more than once a day, as weight fluctuates due to water retention and being bloated at different points of the day.
Week 26 Tips
If you’re experiencing severe pains, try resting as much as possible. Leg, foot, pelvic, back and chest pains, as well as headaches are happening more often than not. A little R&R can really go a long way at this stage. Drinking plenty of fluids and exercising can help with the negative symptoms of being pregnant, such as dehydration, fatigue, constipation, dizziness and swelling. Also, if you haven’t bought a stethoscope, maybe you should consider it. Hearing the baby’s movements versus feeling them, as well as hearing their heartbeat can help you bond before the birth.
