Source: bing.comTable of Contents
What’s Happening Inside
At 26 weeks pregnant, your baby is the size of an eggplant and weighs around two pounds. Your baby’s hearing is now fully developed, and they can hear your voice and other sounds outside the womb. Their eyes are also opening, and they are starting to blink. Your baby’s lungs are starting to produce surfactant, a substance that helps them breathe. Their brain is continuing to develop, and they are starting to make more complex movements.
Your Baby’s Movements
At 26 weeks pregnant, your baby is very active. You may feel them kicking, punching, and even turning somersaults. You may also notice patterns in their movements, like being more active after you eat or when you’re sitting still. If you’re having a particularly active day, it’s a good idea to keep track of your baby’s movements. If you notice any decrease in their movements, contact your healthcare provider right away.
Your Body Changes
At 26 weeks pregnant, you may be experiencing some discomforts. You may have back pain, leg cramps, and heartburn. You may also be feeling more tired than usual. Your healthcare provider may recommend some exercises or stretches to help relieve these discomforts. You may also need to start sleeping with a pillow between your legs to help take pressure off your back.
What You Need to Do
At 26 weeks pregnant, you may need to start thinking about childbirth education classes. These classes can help you prepare for labor and delivery and teach you different coping techniques for pain management. You’ll also need to start thinking about your birth plan and discussing it with your healthcare provider. Your birth plan should include things like who you want in the delivery room with you, whether you want pain medication, and what kind of delivery you prefer.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is it normal to feel Braxton Hicks contractions at 26 weeks pregnant?
Yes, it’s normal to feel Braxton Hicks contractions at 26 weeks pregnant. These are mild contractions that help your uterus prepare for labor. If you’re experiencing more than four contractions in an hour or if they become painful, contact your healthcare provider.
2. How much weight should I have gained at 26 weeks pregnant?
By 26 weeks pregnant, you should have gained between 16 and 22 pounds. If you’re gaining more or less than this, talk to your healthcare provider.
3. Can I still exercise at 26 weeks pregnant?
Yes, you can still exercise at 26 weeks pregnant. However, you may need to modify your workouts to accommodate your changing body. Talk to your healthcare provider about what exercises are safe for you and your baby.
4. When should I start shopping for baby supplies?
You can start shopping for baby supplies at any time during your pregnancy, but many parents wait until the third trimester to start. This gives you time to research different products and create a baby registry.
5. What should I pack in my hospital bag?
You should pack comfortable clothes, toiletries, and any items you’ll need for labor and delivery, like a robe or slippers. You should also pack clothes and supplies for your baby, like diapers and a going-home outfit. Check with your hospital for a complete list of what to pack.