Week 26 of pregnancy: changes and baby movements

Mum, you are in week 26 of your pregnancy, a stage full of excitement and anticipation! Every day that passes brings you closer to the exciting moment when you will hold your little one in your arms.

At Happymami, we share your enthusiasm and we understand perfectly what you are going through. We are mums and midwives, and we are here to accompany you at every step of this incredible journey.

We know the joys, the challenges and the worries that arise during this middle stage of pregnancy. In this article, we will give you essential information backed by the latest scientific evidence. We want you to feel prepared and confident as you move towards the wonderful world of motherhood. At Happymami, we are always by your side, offering you support and guidance on this exciting adventure.

If you don't want to miss the exciting path of pregnancy, we invite you to follow our Happymami pregnancy calendar. We are here to help you on this adventure!

Baby development in week 26 of pregnancy

In week 26 of pregnancy, your little one keeps growing and developing by leaps and bounds inside your uterus. Every day that passes brings you a little closer to the moment when you will hold them in your arms. At this stage, the foetus measures around 35 centimetres and weighs around 760 grams, which is about the size of a pineapple. But what exactly is happening inside?

Your baby's development is astonishing, and at this point their senses are becoming sharper to prepare them for life outside the uterus. Their eyelids, which were previously fused, have now separated, and they can open and close their eyes. Although their vision is still quite limited due to the lack of light in the uterus, they can already tell the difference between light and darkness.

Their brain is growing rapidly, and the neurons are connecting at a surprising speed. Your baby is also developing their senses of taste and smell, as they are surrounded by amniotic fluid that can take on a distinctive flavour depending on what you have eaten.

In addition, your baby's lungs are maturing and producing an essential substance called surfactant, which helps the air sacs in the lungs to stay open and functional. This is a crucial step for their future ability to breathe independently.

It is exciting to watch your baby develop every week, and in week 26 you are one step closer to meeting that little person you have been waiting for with so much love and anticipation.

Symptoms in week 26 of pregnancy

As your pregnancy progresses and you enter week 26, you will probably experience a series of symptoms that are completely normal at this stage. Your body is working hard to nourish and house your little one, and this can lead to a variety of sensations and changes. Here are some of the most common symptoms you might experience:

A bigger bump: Your uterus keeps growing to make room for your growing baby, and your tummy becomes more prominent. As this happens, you may feel more pressure in the lower part of your abdomen.

Baby movements: By now, your baby's movements are more noticeable and frequent. You may feel kicks, turns and twists more regularly, which is usually reassuring and exciting.

Weight gain: During the second trimester, it is common to start gaining weight more steadily. Talk to your healthcare professional to make sure you are gaining the right amount of weight for your individual situation.

Back pain: As your uterus grows and you gain weight, you may experience discomfort in your lower back. Try to keep good posture and consider specific strengthening exercises to relieve the tension.

Heartburn: The growth of the uterus can also put pressure on the stomach, which can cause heartburn. Eating smaller portions and avoiding foods that trigger heartburn can help to relieve this symptom.

Skin changes: Some women may notice changes in skin pigmentation, such as the linea alba or the appearance of dark patches on the face, known as melasma. This is normal and usually disappears after the birth.

Difficulty sleeping: At this stage, finding a comfortable sleeping position can be a challenge. Try using pillows to support your body and relieve the pressure on your back and pelvis.

Remember that every pregnancy is unique, and symptoms can vary from one woman to another. It is always important to talk to your healthcare professional about any concern or symptom you experience during your pregnancy, to make sure that both you and your baby are healthy and well cared for.

If you don't want to miss the exciting path of pregnancy, we invite you to follow our Happymami pregnancy calendar. We are here to help you on this adventure!

Risks in week 26 of pregnancy

In week 26 of pregnancy, some common risks include:

1. Premature birth: Symptoms such as regular contractions, pelvic pressure or vaginal bleeding can be signs of an early birth.
2. Pre-eclampsia: Characterised by high blood pressure, severe swelling or proteinuria, it requires immediate medical attention.
3. Gestational diabetes: It can be detected through glucose tests and requires dietary control and medical supervision.
4. Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR): Slower-than-expected foetal development can be identified in ultrasound scans.
5. Infections: Urinary or vaginal infections are common and should be treated to avoid complications.

It is crucial to keep up regular medical check-ups and to address any unusual symptom to ensure the health of both mother and baby.

How does the mum-to-be feel in week 26?

In week 26 of pregnancy, the mental state of the mum-to-be can vary from one person to another due to individual factors, but in general, many women experience a mixture of emotions during this stage.

It is common to feel excited and anxious as the third trimester and the birth of their baby approach. They are closer to meeting their baby and seeing their face for the first time, which can create anticipation and happiness.

However, it is also normal to feel worry or anxiety. They may worry about the birth, the baby's health, or what life will be like after becoming mothers. These worries are usually natural and can be discussed with a healthcare professional. In any case, Happymami will accompany you so that the feeding process with our bottles is as simple and natural as possible.

What is more, weight gain, physical discomfort and difficulty sleeping can contribute to fatigue at this stage. Mums-to-be may feel exhausted, which can sometimes affect their mental state.

Many women become more aware of themselves and of their bodies during pregnancy. This can lead to deeper reflection on the role of motherhood in their lives and on how they are changing as individuals.

At the same time, some mums-to-be experience a sense of empowerment as they know that they are creating and nurturing a new life. This can lead to increased self-confidence and a sense of achievement.

Hormonal changes can also have a significant impact on mood during pregnancy, which can result in sudden emotional shifts.

Finally, having a strong support system, whether partners, family members or friends, can play a fundamental role in the mental wellbeing of the mum-to-be. Feeling supported and understood can help to ease stress and anxiety.

If you don't want to miss the exciting path of pregnancy, we invite you to follow our Happymami pregnancy calendar. We are here to help you on this adventure!

Week 26 of pregnancy: Happymami tips

In week 26 of pregnancy, it is essential that you continue to look after yourself both physically and emotionally as you approach the exciting moment of the birth and your baby's arrival. Here are some valuable tips to help you maintain a healthy pregnancy and feel ready for motherhood.

First of all, keep up with your regular antenatal care appointments. These visits are essential to make sure that both you and your baby are in good health. Your doctor or midwife will carry out important check-ups and answer any question or concern you may have.

When it comes to food, follow a balanced and nutritious diet. Make sure you get enough protein, calcium, iron and folic acid. Talk to your healthcare professional about your specific nutritional needs at this stage.

Keep up a routine of gentle exercise adapted to your physical condition. Regular exercise can help you to relieve stress and keep your body fit for the birth. In addition, do not underestimate the importance of proper rest. Sleep enough and find comfortable positions to rest, as sleep is essential for your physical and emotional wellbeing.

Remember to stay well hydrated, especially if you experience swelling or fluid retention. Drinking enough water is essential for your health and for your baby's. Managing stress is also crucial at this stage. Practise relaxation techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing, to keep your emotional balance.

Talk to your partner, family and friends about your emotions and worries, as emotional support plays a fundamental role during pregnancy.

Consider signing up for antenatal education classes to prepare for the birth and for caring for your newborn. These classes will provide you with valuable information and increase your confidence.

If your doctor recommends additional tests, such as an ultrasound scan or blood tests, make sure you have them to guarantee your baby's health.

Finally, identify trusted people who can help you after the birth, whether to look after the baby or to give you emotional support. Having a strong support network can make a big difference to your experience as a mum-to-be.

Frequently asked questions: week 26 of pregnancy

How much should my baby weigh in week 26 of pregnancy?

On average, the baby weighs around 760 grams at this stage, but the weight can vary considerably from one pregnancy to another.

How big is my baby at 26 weeks of gestation?

The baby usually measures around 35 centimetres from head to toe in week 26 of pregnancy.

What changes does my baby go through at this stage of gestation?

In week 26, the baby begins to open and close their eyes, their lungs continue to develop and their brain grows rapidly. They can also swallow and digest amniotic fluid.

What can I do to relieve back pain at this stage?

To relieve back pain, you can try to keep good posture, do strengthening exercises and use pillows to support your lower back while you sleep.

How can I manage heartburn during pregnancy?

Avoiding foods that trigger heartburn, eating smaller portions and staying upright after meals can help to manage heartburn.

How much exercise is safe in week 26 of pregnancy?

Gentle, regular exercise is beneficial during pregnancy. Talk to your healthcare professional for specific recommendations for your situation.