26 Weeks Pregnant

What Happens During the Twenty-Sixth Week of Pregnancy?

When you are in the twenty-sixth week of pregnancy, several changes happen to you and your little one. Hormonal changes and concerns start to return as you are moving closer to the 26th week of pregnancy. Here, we will look into the changes happening to you and your little one in detail.

Hormonal Changes or Pregnancy Symptoms

During this time of pregnancy, your body would get hotter than usual. It happens because of the hormonal changes taking place in you. Another reason for such a change is the increase in body weight and blood flow. Other than that, you might notice that there will be a rise in the frequency of the Braxton Hicks Contractions you have. It will get stronger than the previous weeks, but it isn't a concern. However, if you think it is essential, you can always seek advice from your medical professional.

Similar to the previous weeks, your little one will be growing and moving as it tries to attain a comfortable position. Due to these movements, you might feel pain, especially in your lower ribs. Other than that, you might feel difficulties in sleeping, which is known as pregnancy insomnia. It happens because of the pain and discomfort you have in your body. Under these circumstances, it is best to choose a comfortable sleeping position. Through this, you can reduce the problems that you might face while sleeping.

Due to the pregnancy hormones at play, there is a decrease in tear production, which will make your eyes feel irritated. It happens because of the dryness of your eyes. Apart from irritation of the eyes, migraine is an issue that can affect you. If you have had similar concerns previously, there is a high chance that the intensity would be higher. These are the main hormonal changes and pregnancy symptoms that can happen to you during the 26th week of pregnancy.

Bodily Changes

When you are in the 26th week of pregnancy, your body will be undergoing drastic changes. One of them is the increase in weight. Here, you will gain around nine to ten kilograms. Besides, it will depend on the number of babies you are carrying. Due to these changes happening in you, you might feel discomfort and difficulties. However, you have reached past the halfway mark, and only a few months are there for you to meet your little one.

You might notice that your belly button has popped out, and your skin will be getting tight. There will be the presence of stretch marks that pave the way for itchiness. During this time, you might notice that your teeth and gum have become more sensitive. Due to this, there is a chance of spotting blood while you brush.

Besides, during this time, you have to focus on your food intake. Usually, having 2000 calories per day will be sufficient for you. However, during this time, you need to increase your calorie intake by 500 calories per day. It is essential to ensure that your baby acquires the required energy and nutrients. These are the bodily changes happening to you during the twenty-sixth week of pregnancy.

Fetal Development

When you step into the twenty-sixth week of pregnancy, your little one will be 0.91 kg, and the length will be 36 cm. Other than that, your baby will start opening its eyes during this week. It is because previously, your baby's eyes were developing and under the eyelids. Your baby can blink as of now and will soon learn how to focus on things that your little one sees.

Besides, pigmentation processes will start to take place within a few weeks. When it comes to your baby's hands, your little one will be able to clasp and even suck thumbs. There is a chance that your baby might even start playing with toes.

Other than that, your baby's lips and mouth will be starting to take proper shape. They will become more sensitive in the passing days. Similar to the thumbs, your little one will try to put anything that comes close in their mouth. Development of teeth buds too will occur when you are in the 26th week of pregnancy. It is yet another significant change happening to your baby during this time. Your baby will be spending a lot of time sleeping while in the belly as well.

In the case of boys, the testicles will move into the scrotum, and the final stage of genital development will be happening. When it comes to girls, the different parts associated with the genitals will be in place.

If you have an ultrasound at this point, you can have a clear view of your little one and even see the face. Apart from that, you can distinguish your little one's gender with accuracy during the 26th week of pregnancy.

Things to Take Care of During the Twenty-Sixth Week

As you have read, several changes are happening to you during this time of pregnancy. Hence, you have to take the necessary steps to take care of yourself while you are in this week.

Maintaining a Healthy Diet

Similar to the previous weeks, you have to continue having a healthy diet. For that purpose, you should look into the food items you have during the time of pregnancy. It is best to avoid having processed and fast food in your diet. Here, you have to ensure that you stay hydrated as well. For that purpose, you should drink plenty of water. It has to be around eight to ten-ounce glasses of water per day. You can also include other forms of fluids in your diet, including fruit juices, smoothies, soups, etc. Through this, you can reduce the chances of being dehydrated. When you don't drink enough water, it can lead to a decrease in amniotic fluid. Other than that, it helps ensure that your little one doesn't suffer from fatigue or constipation.

If you include meat in your diet, ensure that you have cooked it properly. If it is not, it can lead to indigestion and similar issues. You must have fresh fruits and vegetables as well in your diet. Even though it may not be an issue to have cooked eggs, it is best to avoid having them raw. These are some of the aspects you have to look into when it comes to your diet.

Focus on Your Physical and Mental Health

It is beneficial to get light to moderate exercises while you are pregnant. However, it is best to avoid taking part in intense workouts and those that are risky.

Here, you have to ensure that you are avoiding workouts that can be harmful to your little one. Thus, it will be beneficial to speak to your doctor or training before starting a routine. As you start working out, you don't have to worry about having company. It is because your little one will also be enjoying the strolls that you take and the swims in the pool. You can also hit the gym and try out pregnancy-friendly workouts.

When it comes to your mental health, you might be feeling stressed and anxious. It is because you are approaching the third trimester, and you are nearing your date for delivery. You can try out massages and antenatal exercises.

Speaking with Your Doctor

You can ask your doctor about keeping track of the kicks and movements. Through this, you can gain clarity on how your little one feels while in the belly. You can also seek help from your doctor to relieve stress and anxiety. Here, your doctor might suggest you to a therapist or another professional, if required. Along with this, you can ask your doctor when you have to check if you experience bloating.

Other Tips

Here are a few other tips that you have to consider: