Week 26 of Pregnancy
Second trimester
For informational purposes only. This page is not medical advice. Every pregnancy is different — always consult your doctor, midwife, or healthcare provider for guidance specific to your situation. In an emergency, call your provider or 911 immediately.
Baby is
about the size of an eggplant
9 inches · 1.7 lbs
Baby this week
- •Eyes are opening and closing, though eyelids are still mostly fused
- •Brain is developing rapidly with increased neural connections
- •Lungs are beginning to produce surfactant, a substance needed for breathing after birth
- •Hearing is well-developed; baby can recognize your voice
- •Fingerprints and footprints are fully formed
You this week
- •Increased energy levels (the second trimester energy boost)
- •Back pain and pelvic pressure as the baby grows
- •Braxton Hicks contractions (practice contractions)
- •Swelling in hands, feet, and face
- •Increased appetite and thirst
- •Possible round ligament pain on the sides of your belly
This week's tips
- •Consider taking a childbirth class if you haven't already—knowledge is empowering
- •Invest in a pregnancy pillow to support your growing belly and ease back pain
- •Keep hydrated and monitor for signs of gestational diabetes if you haven't had screening yet
- •Start thinking about labor preferences and creating a birth plan
- •Continue prenatal vitamins and attend all scheduled appointments
Informational only — always check with your doctor or midwife for advice specific to you and your baby.
Looking ahead
Your third trimester is just around the corner. Over the next two weeks, you'll likely feel a shift as your body prepares for the home stretch, and many parents start getting the nursery ready and finalizing childcare plans.
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For informational purposes only. This page is not medical advice. Every pregnancy is different — always consult your doctor, midwife, or healthcare provider for guidance specific to your situation. In an emergency, call your provider or 911 immediately.
This content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Every pregnancy and baby is different. Always consult your doctor, midwife, or pediatrician for guidance specific to your situation.
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