26 Weeks Pregnant — Your Baby Is The Size Of A Stack Of Pancakes

Welcome to Scary Mommy’s pregnancy week by week guide! We’re here to give you all the info about what to expect when you’re expecting: be it week by week symptoms, your baby’s development, your changing body, or ultrasounds and appointments. Here’s everything you need to know about week 26.

Your Body at Week 26 Pregnant

Pregnancy Brain Is Real

You might notice you are even more forgetful than usual; this is called “pregnancy brain.” Welcome to one of the most persistently annoying things about being with child. Words elude you, items go missing, and you have the sneaking suspicion that you are becoming stupider as the days go on. Obviously, you’re thinking about a lot while preparing for your baby to make their grand debut, but you might also be experiencing hormone fluctuations. Don’t worry, “pregnancy brain” will soon be replaced with “Mom brain,” and you’ll never feel smart again!

Braxton Hicks Contractions

Braxton Hicks contractions might also be more noticeable. As long as contractions aren’t severe or consistent, you’re probably fine. If you find yourself in pain or notice that your contractions aren’t stopping, call your doctor — you might be in preterm labor.

Weight Gain

You’ll be putting on weight at the rate of about one pound per week now. Over the past few weeks, you may have noticed your belly button slowly pushing outwards. By week 26, it’s likely you are sporting an “outie.” Eventually, your belly-button will go back to normal — kind of. Just think of it like your favorite jeans—well-lived in.

Your Baby at Week 26 Pregnant

At 26 weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of a stack of pancakes, weighing in at about 2 pounds and measuring 14 inches long. Baby is still doing all sorts of acrobatics; see if you can catch a shot of a little fist or foot pressing through the skin on your belly.

Your baby’s eyes are beginning to open at 26 weeks. If you’re having a boy, his testicles are descending to the scrotum.

Baby’s Hearing Has Developed

Baby’s hearing is fully developed at this point, and they may even move around to certain sounds. You might feel like a moron, but try talking to your belly and playing music for your baby — this will get them ready for and more comfortable with their post-birth environment.

Your Symptoms and Health at Week 26 Pregnant

Week 26 often marks the moment when moms-to-be start feeling really uncomfortable. It might be harder to walk up stairs or do other basic activities. Don’t be afraid to ask for help—or demand a seat on public transportation.

Insomnia Strikes

Sleeping might become an issue as well. Insomnia and general sleeping discomfort often strikes around this time. Take care of your sleep health by limiting caffeine and going on walks. Invest in a pregnancy body pillow to help with tossing and turning—trust us, this is a game changer. If insomnia develops into a serious issue and not just a minor annoyance, talk to your doctor. If you’re not getting good sleep, it will affect your mood.

At 26 weeks, you might experience a slight boost in blood pressure. Make sure you discuss this with your doctor. If your blood pressure is too high, it could be a sign of preeclampsia or HELLP syndrome.

You Can’t Stop Farting

If you find yourself farting up a stink storm, that’s normal. Your uterus is expanding and exerting pressure on your stomach and intestines, and you might feel extra bloated and gassy.

If you’ve been experiencing headaches and migraines, they might be getting more intense. Make sure you are drinking lots of water and staying hydrated — this will also help with constipation.

Speaking of constipation, you might notice that it’s getting harder to go. This is because high levels of progesterone might be slowing your digestion. Try and eat high fiber foods such as fruit, vegetables, beans, whole grains, and bran.

Double Trouble

Your twins now weigh a little over or under two pounds and are inhaling and exhaling amniotic fluid. It won’t be long until they’re breathing air!

Braxton Hicks contractions are usually even more noticeable at this point when you’re having twins. If contractions aren’t severe, it’s probably nothing to worry about. But if you’re concerned and contractions persist, call your healthcare provider immediately. Premature birth is much more common with twins so the signs of preterm labour are something to watch out for.

The contents of this article have been medically reviewed by Ruth A. Tessler, M.D. in July, 2019.

Written by Patricia Grisafi.

Follow Preggo Nancy’s pregnancy journey week-by-week and share in her joy, her symptoms, and even her pregnancy cravings.

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