At 26 weeks of pregnancy, you are at the end of the second trimester and almost at the third. Learn about how your baby is developing and what symptoms you may experience during this stage of pregnancy.
What is happening with your baby at 26 weeks of pregnancy?
Your baby is continuing to grow during this stage of pregnancy:
- Organ systems have fully formed
- Weight continues to increase
- Eyes have fully developed
- Eyebrows and eyelashes begin to develop
- Nostrils start to open, allowing them to breathe via amniotic fluid using new muscles
- Sucking reflex becomes stronger (ultrasounds around week 26 often show babies sucking their thumbs)
- Umbilical cord gets stronger and thicker, intestines continue to develop, and more nutrients are absorbed by the baby
What changes are happening to your baby at 26 weeks of pregnancy?
For many women, the second trimester of pregnancy is the most enjoyable. You may be over some of the more uncomfortable symptoms of pregnancy and feeling pretty good.
However, you may experience symptoms such as Braxton Hicks contractions (false labor pains), leg cramps, mild ankle swelling, and back pain. Other symptoms may include rib pain and stretch marks:
- Rib pain: Depending on the baby's position, you may feel pressure in different areas of your abdomen, including your ribs. Hormones, weight gain, and other symptoms such as heartburn can contribute to rib pain. You can relieve rib pain by shifting positions, practicing prenatal yoga or stretching, maintaining a healthy weight, and wearing supportive bras or bands.
- Stretch marks: As your pregnancy bump grows, you may start to notice stretch marks. Stretch marks are very common and affect 55%-90% of pregnant women. While they are no cause for concern, they can cause itchiness or burning. Typical areas that may be affected include the breasts, abdomen, hips, and thighs. You can reduce your risk of developing stretch marks by eating healthy and keeping your skin hydrated and moisturized.
At 26 weeks of pregnancy, it is important to be monitored for signs of raised blood sugar levels, raised blood pressure, and thyroid abnormalities.
SLIDESHOW
Conception: The Amazing Journey from Egg to Embryo See SlideshowHealth Solutions From Our Sponsors
Medically Reviewed on 5/5/2022
References
Image Source: iStock Image
American Pregnancy Association. Pregnancy Week 26. https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/week-by-week/26-weeks-pregnant/
American Pregnancy Association. Pregnancy Week 26. https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/week-by-week/26-weeks-pregnant/
Complete List
Top What Stage of Pregnancy Is 26 Weeks Related Articles
How Much Sleep Should a Pregnant Woman Get in Second Trimester Pregnancy?
On average, you will get seven and a half hours of sleep per night during the second trimester of pregnancy.
Is Week 26 the Third Trimester?
At week 26 of pregnancy, you are at the end of your second trimester and nearing the start of your third trimester. Learn about what to expect at 26 weeks.
Is It Normal to Have Headaches in Second Trimester Pregnancy?
Many women experience headaches during pregnancy. Headaches tend to be worse during the first trimester and they get better in the second and third trimesters although some women still experience headaches during the second trimester.
What Foods Should I Eat During My First Trimester of Pregnancy?
What to know about diet during the first trimester. Learn more about how to protect and fuel your body and baby during this exciting time.
Prenatal Vitamins
Prenatal vitamins are recommended by most doctors prior to getting pregnant, throughout your pregnancy, and after you have your baby. The developing embryo and fetus need extra vitamins for healthy development. Prenatal vitamins contain iron, calcium and vitamin D, folic acid (to prevent birth defects), zinc, iodine, and vitamin A. Some prenatal multivitamins also contain other minerals and supplements like vitamin B 12 and omega-3 fatty acids.
Second Trimester (16 Weeks) Picture
The Baby at 16 Weeks. Muscle tissue and bone continue to form, creating a more complete skeleton. See a picture of Second Trimester (16 Weeks) and learn more about the health topic.
What Are the Dos and Don'ts During the Second Trimester of Pregnancy?
2nd trimester pregnancy - Learn what you should and shouldn't do during the second trimester of pregnancy to protect you and your baby's health. Prenatal vitamins, exercise, sleep, no alcohol or smoking and more.
Pregnancy: 7 Common Third Trimester Tests
Testing is often recommended during the third trimester of pregnancy. These tests are designed to ensure the health and safety of both the child and mother. Common tests during the third trimester of a woman's pregnancy include:- group B streptococcus screening,
- electronic fetal heart monitoring,
- nonstress test,
- contraction stress test, and
- a biophysical profile.
What Are the 3 Prenatal Tests?
Prenatal tests are medical procedures performed during pregnancy to assess the health and development of the fetus and to help identify any potential problems or abnormalities. The three most common prenatal tests include ultrasound, amniocentesis, and chorionic villus sampling (CVS). Other prenatal tests include pregnancy test, first trimester screening, second trimester screening, noninvasive prenatal testing, fetal ultrasound, genetic counseling, biophysical profile, Group B streptococcus (GBS) test, glucose tolerance test, anomaly scan, and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) test.
What Happens in the 2nd Trimester Pregnancy?
The second trimester of pregnancy is often the most comfortable for women. In the second trimester of pregnancy, a woman experiences a growing belly, body pains, melasma, bleeding gums, dizziness, carpel tunnel syndrome, swelling and other changes.
Which Fruit is Best in the Second Trimester?
When you are pregnant, it is important to have a well-balanced diet, with variable nutritious foods that include fruit and vegetables. Fruits that are the most important to eat during the second trimester include bananas, apples, berries and other fruits.