Pregnancy week 26

Your baby’s development

At 26 weeks your baby is about the size of a head of lettuce. The headline this week is the eyes: the eyelids, previously fused, begin to open. Your baby can now open and close the eyes and may react to light that seeps through. Vision is not sharp yet, but the baby can sense the difference between light and dark. The lungs continue to develop and surfactant production is rising. Your baby moves a lot and may react more clearly to your voice or sounds from outside. The hearing system is largely working. A sleep and wake pattern is becoming clearer, and the baby may show dream-like eye movements during sleep. The brain develops rapidly and nerve connections multiply. These measurements are averages; every baby moves at its own speed. Development moves at its own pace in every pregnancy; your doctor interprets ultrasound measurements, and small differences are usually ordinary.

Changes in the mother

Noticing your baby's regular movements is a way to connect with your baby and to sense that all is well at this stage. How often a baby moves differs from one baby to another, so getting to know your own baby's usual pattern matters. If you notice a clear decrease in movements or a change in the pattern, contact your doctor without waiting. As the belly grows, back and groin aches, breathlessness and heartburn may continue. For gas and bloating, eating slowly and avoiding fizzy drinks can help. Numbness or tingling in the hands is seen in some people and may be linked to pressure at the wrist. If it disturbs your sleep, tell your doctor. Make enough time for rest and listen to what your body tells you.

To do this week

• Try to notice your baby's movements through the day and get to know the usual pattern.
• Remember to tell your doctor about any clear decrease in movements.
• Talk with your doctor about the date of the glucose tolerance test (usually weeks 24–28).
• Start a first list for your hospital bag.

Tip for the partner

Rest a hand on her belly to feel the kicks, and set aside a quiet moment for it.

Nutrition tip

Eating slowly and choosing small meals through the day may help reduce gas.