Pregnancy Week 26
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- 26 Weeks Pregnant
Now that you're 26 weeks pregnant, your baby is becoming more stable. Learn more about her development as well as how to deal with several pregnancy-related discomforts including sleep positions, Braxton Hicks contractions, and uncomfortable intercourse.
How big is baby?
Your baby is nearly as long as a zucchini. Her eyebrows and eyelashes are well-defined; plus, she has more hair on her head this week.
Baby's Development
Once baby reaches 26 weeks, she will settle into a distinct sleep-wake pattern. You may notice that sometimes she's very active and kicking or punching, and other times she sleeps. If you're lucky, these patterns will mimic yours.
Baby Week 26
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Week 26 Ultrasound
Hi, Mom! This image reveals a close-up look at your unborn baby's nose and mouth. It's almost as if her face is pressed up against a window.
Read MoreWatch Baby's Growth
What Week 26 of Your Pregnancy is Really Like
Mom's changing body
By now, you've probably gained around 15 pounds, and possibly even more, depending on your pre-pregnancy weight. It may sound like a lot and you may not be loving your pregnancy size, but remember it's a necessity. Also, much of the weight can be attributed to the weight of your baby, an increase of blood and fluid volume, your expanded uterus, larger breasts, the placenta, and amniotic fluid.
Weekly Tip
Edema -- aka the swelling of your hands and feet -- may make it hard to get your rings on and your shoes off these days. In fact, 75 percent of pregnant women experience this side effect. The excess fluid in your body often causes your hands, legs, ankles, and feet to swell. Be sure to drink lots of water to try to flush everything through your system. Support stockings can also help prevent swelling.
Pregnancy Confidential Podcast
Is Breast Always Best?
If pregnancy felt a little like a dream in the early days, at 26 Weeks it definitely feels like reality: you're sporting the belly to prove it and you're probably well aware of there being a real, live baby inside with every somersault you feel. This real baby has gotta eat when he comes out, so now's a good time to think seriously about how and what you'll feed him. You've heard it a million times: breast is best. But is it always? In this week's podcast, we take a look at the formula/breast milk debate to help you think ahead about your little bub's nutrition.
Must-Reads
32 Ways to Save Money When You Have a Baby
Your little bundle can cost you big. Here's how to avoid blowing your budget.
Your Ultimate Pumping Guide
Thanks to pumping, your baby can benefit from your breast milk when you're not around. Here's how to get the hang of this handy technique.
Sleep Cycles: Weeks 26 to 30 of Pregnancy
At this point, your baby is awake and asleep at very specific times of the day. Find out about his sleep patterns, and what they mean.
Your Preeclampsia Risks, Explained
Could you be in danger of developing preeclampsia? We asked experts how you can determine your risk for this serious pregnancy condition.
Week 26 Ultrasound: What It Would Look Like
What's going on with your baby when you're 26 weeks pregnant? Find out all about the new things you can detect on an ultrasound at this stage.
Pregnancy in Your 20s, 30s, and 40s
There's no 'right time' to have a baby -- but there are simple steps you can take to stay happy and healthy at every age.