Week 26 Pregnancy: Brain Development in Full Swing

Congratulations on reaching Week 26! You’re making wonderful progress, and your baby is growing and changing right along with you. As you move closer to your third trimester, you’ll likely notice more changes in your body and even stronger connections with your little one inside.

By this week, your baby is about the size of a zucchini and weighs nearly 2 pounds. Their eyes are beginning to open, and they can respond to light and sound. You might even catch your baby having the hiccups — those gentle little jumps you feel in your belly mean their tiny lungs are practicing for life outside.

You may also find certain symptoms picking up. It can be common to feel more tired at times, or to experience swelling in your feet and hands, known as edema. If you notice your rings getting tight or your shoes feeling snug, try to put your feet up when you can and drink plenty of water. Your body is doing important work, so be gentle and give yourself permission to rest when needed.

Some moms find their minds wandering to labor, birth, or newborn care classes around now. This is a fantastic time to look into birthing classes or parenting resources in your community, or even join an online support group. Learning with others can make this time feel less overwhelming and much more joyful.

Your emotions may be on a bit of a rollercoaster, too. Changing hormones and excitement about your baby’s arrival can lead to mood shifts. That’s perfectly normal. Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, family, or your healthcare provider if you need some extra comfort or support.

• Notice how your baby responds to gentle music or your voice.
• Keep healthy snacks nearby for steady energy.
• Wear comfortable shoes and clothes as your body changes.

You are doing an incredible job, week by week. Try to savor these special moments and take care of yourself as you continue to nurture the amazing life growing within you.

Your Baby’s Development This Week

At 26 weeks, your growing baby is busy getting ready for the world in many amazing ways. Right now, your little one is about the size of a cucumber, stretching close to 14 inches long and weighing around 1.7 pounds. Each day, your baby is gaining weight and building the skills and features they’ll need after birth—and you may feel them becoming more active than ever!

Eyes and Senses: This week is especially exciting for your baby’s eyes. The eyelids, which have been fused shut, are now starting to open, and tiny eyelashes are taking shape. Your baby can sense light through your belly and might even turn away from a bright source. Their eyes still won’t show their final color yet; it’s common for babies’ eye color to change after birth.

Listening to the World: A special part of this week is your baby’s ability to hear sounds more clearly. The developing brain is now processing noises inside and outside your belly. Your baby can pick up on your heartbeat, the rumblings of your stomach, and most wonderfully—your voice. Some studies even suggest that babies may begin to recognize—and prefer—the voices they hear most, especially yours!

Lung Growth: In these weeks, your baby’s lungs are getting ready for their first breaths. They’re starting to produce a substance called surfactant, which helps the air sacs stay open once they’re breathing air. For now, your little one is “practicing” breathing by taking tiny gulps of amniotic fluid—a sign of growing strength and control.

Activity and Reflexes: Movements will likely feel more frequent now, as your baby is quite active, stretching, twisting, and sometimes even having fun with a finger or thumb! Many moms notice gentle hiccups too, which are brief, rhythmic movements as your baby’s lungs develop. These twitches are completely normal and can feel like little flutters.

• Developing Senses: Along with hearing, your baby’s sense of touch is getting more refined. Soft stroking of your belly may prompt a response, as your baby becomes more aware of their surroundings inside the womb.
• Immune System Boost: At this stage, important antibodies begin passing from you to your baby, helping to build their early immune system and prepare them for life outside.
• Boys’ Development: If you’re having a boy, his testicles may begin to move down into the scrotum around this time—a noteworthy step in male development.
• Skin and Hair: Your baby’s skin still appears a bit red and see-through, but more fat is being stored now to help them look rounder over the coming weeks. Fine hair (called lanugo) still covers the skin, and eyebrows and hair are continuing to grow.

These milestones mean your little one is getting stronger and more ready to meet you! Every flutter, hiccup, and growing heartbeat is a reminder of the incredible changes happening this week. Embrace these moments and know that by supporting your own health and well-being, you’re giving your baby the very best start.

Changes in the Mother’s Body

Welcome to week 26! At this stage, your baby bump is growing right along with your excitement—and your body is working hard to nurture your little one. Every pregnancy is unique, but many moms notice some new sensations and shifts around this week.

Here’s what you might experience as you reach the end of your second trimester:

• Growing Belly and Skin Stretches: Your belly is probably more prominent than ever. As your uterus expands, you might see your belly button poking out or notice your skin feels tight. Some women see new stretch marks, which are completely normal and happen when the skin stretches quickly. Using a mild, fragrance-free moisturizer can help soothe any itchiness.
• Noticeable Movements: Your baby is getting stronger and more active! Many moms say they feel bumps, rolls, and even hiccups from their baby. Sometimes these wiggles can even keep you up at night. Lying quietly or gently rubbing your belly is a great way to connect—your little one often responds to touch or sound at this stage.
• Backaches and Body Aches: With your belly growing and your posture changing, back pain is a common complaint. Gentle stretching, warm (not hot) baths, and supportive pillows can bring some relief. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help carrying things or to take breaks during the day.
• Leg Cramps and Swelling: You might notice your feet and ankles swelling, especially after standing or sitting for a long time. Some moms get nighttime leg cramps as well. Resting with your feet up, staying active, and drinking plenty of water can help keep you comfortable. Don’t hesitate to let your doctor know if swelling becomes sudden or severe.
• Changes in Sleep: Finding a comfortable position to sleep gets trickier as your belly grows. Many women sleep best on their side with a pillow between their knees. Pregnancy can also bring vivid dreams or frequent trips to the bathroom at night. Try to keep a relaxing routine before bed to encourage better rest.
• Emotional and Mental Shifts: Hormone changes can bring mood swings or leave you feeling a bit forgetful, sometimes called “pregnancy brain.” If you feel anxious or teary, you’re not alone. Make time for self-care and lean on loved ones for support. It’s okay to share your feelings with your care team, too.
• Breast Changes: Your breasts may feel fuller or more sensitive as they prep for breastfeeding. It’s also common to notice a little leakage of a yellowish fluid called colostrum—this is your body getting ready to nourish your newborn after birth.

Every change—big or small—is a sign that your body is caring for your baby. Try to embrace the journey, celebrate the progress, and remember to care for yourself along the way. If you ever have questions or something doesn’t feel right, reach out to your provider. You’re doing an amazing job!

Your Week 26 Pregnancy Checkups: What to Expect

At 26 weeks, your regular prenatal care is focused on making sure both you and your baby are staying healthy during this exciting stage of pregnancy. Here’s what you can look forward to—and what important check-ins your care team may recommend—during this week.

• Measuring Baby’s Growth: Your provider will likely measure your belly to check how your baby is growing. They’ll use a soft tape measure from the top of your uterus down to your pubic bone (fundal height). Around this time, it’s normal for this measurement in centimeters to match up closely with how many weeks pregnant you are.
• Checking Your Health: Blood pressure and weight gain are watched closely. They help spot things like preeclampsia (a type of high blood pressure in pregnancy) or unexpected changes in your health.
• Urine Testing: A quick urine test can show early warning signs of conditions like gestational diabetes or infections, even before you feel any symptoms. It checks for sugar or protein in your urine, both of which can be important signals.
• Listening to Baby’s Heartbeat: You’ll usually get to hear your baby’s heartbeat at every prenatal visit. It’s a simple way for your provider to keep tabs on your baby’s well-being—and it’s always a special moment for moms too!
• Gestational Diabetes Screening: This is a big milestone: most women are screened for gestational diabetes between week 24 and 28. You’ll drink a sweet liquid and have your blood drawn to see how your body handles sugar. If your results are high, you might have a longer follow-up test to make sure your blood sugar levels are in a healthy range.
• Blood Tests for Anemia: Your provider may check your iron levels with a simple blood test. This helps spot anemia, which is common in pregnancy and can make you feel extra tired or weak. If needed, your doctor can recommend ways to boost your iron, often with food or supplements.
• Receiving the Rh Immunoglobulin Shot (if Needed): If your blood type is Rh-negative, you may be offered a special shot (called RhoGAM or anti-D) around this time. This helps protect your baby from possible complications if your blood types don’t match.

Every checkup is a chance to ask questions and share any new symptoms you notice, like headaches, vision changes, feeling dizzy, or swelling. Your care team is there to listen and help you feel your best.

As you continue through your second trimester, routine visits and these screenings are some of the best ways to support both your health and your baby’s. Try to keep your appointments and speak up about anything on your mind—you and your little one are worth it!

Nutritional Tips and Physical Exercise

Reaching week 26 is a wonderful milestone! As your baby grows stronger every day, giving your body the best care through what you eat and how you move can make a real difference in your energy, comfort, and health.

Here are some gentle, practical tips just for you this week:

• Stay Fueled with Small, Frequent Meals: Your growing uterus may leave less room for your stomach, and you might find that eating large meals can be uncomfortable. Try having 5 to 6 small, nutritious meals or snacks spread throughout the day. This can help keep your blood sugar steady and reduce heartburn, which is common around this time.
• Snack Smart: Keep simple snacks like unsalted nuts, sliced fruit, Greek yogurt, or whole-grain crackers on hand. These are easy to grab and full of nutrients your baby needs, plus they help keep your hunger at bay between meals.
• Boost Your Fiber Intake: Many moms experience constipation during pregnancy. Adding more fiber-rich foods—like oatmeal, pears, berries, beans, and steamed broccoli—can keep your digestion running smoothly. Don’t forget to pair this with water, since fiber works best when you’re well-hydrated!
• Choose Healthy Fats: Avocado, olive oil, chia seeds, and fatty fish like salmon are excellent sources of healthy fats that support your baby’s brain development. If you’re vegetarian, walnuts and flaxseeds are great plant-based options.
• Flavor with Herbs: To reduce your salt intake (which helps keep swelling down), try seasoning your food with fresh herbs or lemon for extra flavor.
• Mindful Hydration: Keep a water bottle nearby and sip throughout the day. Aim for at least eight cups (about two liters) daily, and add a splash of fruit or cucumber slices for a refreshing twist.
• Limit Caffeine and Sugary Drinks: Try to keep caffeine under 200 mg per day (about one 12-oz cup of coffee) and choose water or milk over soda or sweetened drinks. Too much sugar can cause energy crashes and affect your blood sugar.

Alongside healthy eating, gentle physical activity can help you stay comfortable, sleep better, and prepare for delivery. Always check with your healthcare provider before starting a new routine, but most moms can enjoy these options:

• Walking: A daily stroll—even just 20–30 minutes—keeps your body moving without straining your joints. It’s a simple way to boost your mood too!
• Prenatal Yoga or Stretching: Specially designed prenatal yoga or gentle stretching can relieve aches in your back, hips, and legs. These movements also help you connect with your breath and relax, which is useful for both pregnancy and labor.
• Strengthening Exercises: Simple strength work, like squats or using light weights, helps your muscles support your growing belly. You can even do gentle pelvic floor exercises anywhere—these reduce the risk of leakage and prepare you for birth.
• Swimming or Water Aerobics: If you have access to a pool, being in the water eases pressure on your joints and can be wonderfully soothing as your belly grows.

Listen to your body and rest as needed. If you feel dizzy, uncomfortable, or notice any warning signs (pain, contractions, or bleeding), stop right away and reach out to your healthcare team. Remember, every mom and pregnancy is unique—celebrate the progress you’ve made and take things one day at a time. You’re doing an amazing job nourishing both yourself and your baby!

Weekly Checklist

Congratulations on reaching 26 weeks! You and your baby have made wonderful progress so far. Here’s your gentle, week-specific checklist to help you take care of yourself and your little one as you enter the final weeks of your second trimester:

• Schedule your glucose screening. Most moms have their gestational diabetes test between 24 and 28 weeks. Ask your provider about the timing if you haven’t already scheduled it.
• Keep track of your baby’s movemen​ts. Around this time, you may feel more kicks, rolls, or even little hiccups! Try to notice patterns—your baby is getting stronger and more active each day.
• Stay on top of hydration. As your blood volume increases, aim for steady sips of water throughout the day. Keep a water bottle handy to help prevent cramps and support healthy circulation.
• Include plenty of iron-rich foods. Add beans, lentils, spinach, eggs, or fortified cereals to your meals. This helps boost your energy and supports your baby’s growth while lowering your risk of anemia.
• Practice gentle stretching and movement. Simple stretches or prenatal yoga can ease back pain and leg cramps, and may even help you sleep better. Take breaks if you’re sitting or standing for long periods.
• Take time for rest as needed. With your belly expanding and sleep getting trickier, brief daytime rests or short naps can be a huge help—listen to what your body tells you.
• Watch for new or changing symptoms. It’s normal to notice more frequent trips to the bathroom, skin changes like darkening or new stretch marks, or your belly button “popping”—all signs your body is making room for baby. If you experience headaches that are severe or accompanied by vision changes, let your provider know.
• Read up on third trimester changes. Now is a great time to prepare for what’s next. Learn about signs of preterm labor, what to expect at upcoming appointments, and how your baby will continue developing in the weeks ahead.
• Continue taking your daily prenatal vitamin. Look for one with DHA for baby’s growing brain, along with iron and folic acid.
• Focus on calcium and vitamin D. Snack on low-sugar yogurt, enjoy a glass of milk (or fortified almond/soy milk), or munch on leafy greens to support your baby’s bones and teeth.
• Consider starting a bedtime routine. Relaxing activities like reading, listening to calm music, or gentle foot massages may help if you’re experiencing trouble falling asleep.
• Choose healthy, easy snacks. Keep handy snacks like fresh fruit, trail mix, or hard-boiled eggs nearby to fight fatigue and support steady energy between meals.
• Ask your healthcare provider about any vaccines you might need. For example, the Tdap vaccine is often recommended in the third trimester—it protects both you and your baby from whooping cough.
• Make note of any swelling. Mild swelling in your feet and ankles can be normal as pregnancy advances, especially if you’ve been on your feet. Put your feet up when possible, and wear comfortable shoes.

Every pregnancy is unique—be proud of your progress so far and reach out to your provider about any concerns, no matter how small they may seem. Take care of yourself this week, both body and mind!

When to Call Your Provider 

Most changes during week 26 are expected, but sometimes new symptoms signal the need for extra care. If you’re ever unsure, it’s always better to check in. Your peace of mind matters!

Here are moments when you should reach out to your healthcare provider:

• Bleeding or Leaking Fluid: If you notice any vaginal bleeding or a sudden gush or steady trickle of fluid from your vagina, call your pregnancy care team. This could mean your water has broken early or there’s another issue that needs attention.
• Sharp or Persistent Abdominal Pain: Mild aches are common, but if you experience severe pain that doesn’t go away, or if the pain feels different from usual pregnancy discomfort, don’t ignore it.
• Regular, Painful Contractions: If you feel tightening or cramping in your belly that happens every 10 minutes or more often—especially if these don’t ease up with rest—contact your provider right away. This could be a sign of preterm labor.
• Decreased Baby Movement: Now that you’re feeling your baby’s kicks every day, a noticeable decrease in movement should be reported. If your baby seems much less active than usual, or you haven’t felt any movement for several hours, give your provider a call for reassurance and advice.
• High Fever or Chills: If you develop a temperature over 100.4°F (38°C), or experience chills and body aches, it could be a sign of infection and may be harmful if not checked.
• Severe or Sudden Swelling: While some swelling in your feet and ankles is expected, sudden puffiness in your hands, face, or around your eyes—especially when paired with headaches or vision changes—should be taken seriously.
• Vision Changes: Any blurring, seeing spots, or flashes of light could signal high blood pressure and should be reported immediately.
• Severe Headache: If you have a headache that won’t go away even after resting or taking Tylenol (if approved by your doctor), let your healthcare provider know.
• Painful or Burning Urination: If it stings to pee, or you notice cloudy, smelly, or bloody urine, let your doctor know, as urinary tract infections are common and treatable—but can become serious if ignored.
• Shortness of Breath or Chest Pain: If you have trouble catching your breath even when resting, feel chest pain, or notice your heart is pounding in an unusual way, seek help right away.
• Unusual Itching: Itching on your hands or feet, especially if it’s intense and keeping you awake at night, could point to a liver condition that needs attention.

Your instincts matter. If you ever feel something isn’t quite right, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare team. It’s always better to get things checked early for your well-being and your baby’s health.

Preparations for Baby

Week 26 is an exciting time to start imagining daily life with your baby and to prepare both your heart and your home. Taking small steps now can help you feel more confident and ready for your little one’s arrival in the months ahead.

• Create a calming space: Think about where your baby will sleep—whether it’s a nursery, your bedroom, or another cozy corner. Start with simple touches like choosing soft bedding, hanging up a mobile, or setting up a nightlight. You don’t need fancy décor; focus on comfort and what feels peaceful to you.
• Plan for feeding: Look into your feeding options—breastfeeding, formula, or a combination. If you plan to breastfeed, consider getting a comfortable chair or a small pillow to support your arms. You can also research breast pumps or bottles if needed.
• Think about baby gear: Now is a great time to compare car seats, strollers, and safe sleep spaces like cribs or bassinets. Many stores have models on display so you can try before you buy. Ask friends or family for advice if you feel unsure.
• Stock up on baby basics: Start a small stash of newborn diapers, wipes, gentle baby wash, and a few soft outfits. You don’t need to have everything just yet—focus on essentials for the first few days.
• Begin washing baby clothes and linens: Use fragrance-free detergent to wash some onesies, swaddles, and burp cloths. This helps remove any irritants and gets you thinking ahead to cuddling your little one.
• Think about your support network: Talk with your partner, family, or close friends about how they might support you in those first few weeks. It could be as simple as having someone lined up to walk your dog, grab groceries, or just listen when you need to talk.
• Take care of yourself emotionally: It’s normal to feel a mix of excitement and worry. If you have concerns or big feelings, don’t hesitate to share them at your prenatal appointments, or talk with loved ones. You’re not alone in this new chapter.
• Start thinking about childcare options: If you’ll need care after maternity leave, research local caregivers or daycare centers now—many have waitlists, and looking early helps you feel more prepared.
• Gather important paperwork: Begin a folder or file for insurance information, hospital registration forms, and any other documents you may need around delivery time.

Remember, you don’t have to do everything at once. Taking one step at a time is just right. Trust yourself—you’re already doing so much to welcome your baby with love and care.