26 Weeks Pregnant 

The third trimester is winding down at 26 weeks pregnant. If you haven’t felt like the “honeymoon” is about over, you will soon. Though still physically able to do a lot, it is becoming evident that this will not last.

MOM

You will be noticing that discomfort and tiredness aren’t so easy to ignore. Your body is working hard to create a human being and you should follow your body’s lead and be sure to get adequate rest so it can do its job efficiently. Exercise and stretching will continue to help relieve discomfort.

As the baby’s growth accelerates, be sure you are paying attention to nutrition. Getting rid of a few extra pounds after the baby is born will be easier than caring for a baby that has developmental delays or health problems because the mom restricted her weight gain at the expense of adequate nutrition.

An increased vaginal discharge is common and you don’t need to be concerned. If you get a yeast infection, though, consult your doctor instead of self-treating with over-the-counter medications during your pregnancy. Increased trips to the bathroom will be noticed due to the pressure of the baby on the bladder. Temporary incontinences can occur during the pregnancy.

With the hormonal changes there may be headaches. If they become unmanageable consult your health care professional before taking migraine medications or other strong headache medications.

Blood pressure may rise slightly and it is normal during this time. Pre-eclampsia isn’t usually a risk until the third trimester.

BABY

The baby is about 2 pounds now and 9-10 inches long. Fat is beginning to accumulate on the baby. Air sacks begin to develop in the lungs during week 26 of the pregnancy. Though the baby’s eyes are sealed shut, the retina completes its development. The baby’s organs are maturing and you may notice the baby respond to loud noises in the environment. Reading to the baby will help the baby recognize family member’s voices when outside of the womb. Male babies often go through a growing spurt and their testicles will descend from the scrotum.

LIFE

An infant CPR class for you, your partner, and anyone else who you know will be caring for the baby should be considered. People don’t regret taking a CPR class, but may regret not taking one.

Continue to make time for one on one with those you love and care about. Even if it is just an hour alone walking in the park without the cell phones, it will become special times of connecting.

It is normal to feel completely ready for the upcoming arrival one minute and then totally unprepared the next. Mood swings are common and should be seen as such, so keep in mind it is not everyone around you that is causing the distress. Take a deep breath and practice relaxation techniques.

Enjoy the last of the second trimester because things are about to change.

Also check out our due date calculator