WeMoms
9 Apr 2024

Your body at 26 weeks of pregnancy

Pregnancy
Pregnancy week by week
Your Body at 26 Weeks
As you advance through your pregnancy, each week brings its own set of changes and challenges. 

Here's a concise breakdown of what to expect in week 26, along with some targeted advice to help you manage these developments effectively.
Juliette
Midwife for 8+ years
Symptoms of the week
Lower Back Pain

Feeling gorgeous

Headache

Lower Back Pain & Headaches: Common as your body adjusts to increased weight.

Skin Changes: Hormonal fluctuations may lead to breakouts or enhanced beauty.

Congestion: Increased blood flow can cause nasal swelling.

Edema (Swelling): Normal in hands, feet, and ankles due to extra fluid retention.

Shortness of Breath & Heartburn: Your growing uterus impacts lung capacity and digestion.
Breathing practice leads to strong kicks. Physically, you might notice increased tightness. It's a mix of anticipation and readiness.
International Journal of Gynecology and Obstetrics
Is it normal?
Weight Gain: Gaining about 1lb per week now is standard for supporting fetal development.

Skin Variability: Estrogen increases can cause oily skin or a radiant appearance.

Congestion & Edema: Both are typical due to hormonal changes and increased blood volume.

Breathing & Digestive Changes: Result from physical adjustments as your baby grows.
Top Asked Questions
Top 5 questions answered
What can I do to prepare for postpartum recovery?

Stock up on essentials like pads, nursing bras, and comfortable clothing, and create a postpartum recovery plan with your healthcare provider.

How much weight should I gain during the third trimester?

You should aim to gain 1-2 pounds per week during the third trimester, or a total of 25-35 pounds if you started at a healthy weight.

What are some common discomforts during the third trimester?

Common discomforts include back pain, Braxton Hicks contractions, heartburn, and shortness of breath.

How often should I be feeling my baby move?

You should feel your baby move at least 10 times in a two-hour period. If you're not feeling enough movement, contact your healthcare provider.

What can I do to relieve swollen feet and ankles?

Elevating your feet, drinking plenty of water, and wearing comfortable shoes can help relieve swollen feet and ankles.

What is a birth plan, and should I have one?

A birth plan outlines your preferences for labor and delivery, and can help you communicate with your healthcare provider. It's optional, but can be helpful.

Taking care of yourself
Healthy Eating & Hydration: Essential for managing weight and reducing edema.

Skin Care: Use gentle products to manage breakouts; avoid harsh chemicals.

Congestion Relief: Humidifiers and saline drops can alleviate nasal congestion.

Swelling Management: Elevate feet and limit standing/sitting periods.

Breath Easy Tips: Practice deep breathing; elevate your head while sleeping.

Heartburn Mitigation: Eat smaller, frequent meals; avoid spicy/acidic foods.
Tips of the week
Plan for potential maternity leave or work accommodations
Research potential child care options and decide on a plan
Stay up-to-date with regular prenatal appointments and recommended tests
Invest in a comfortable and supportive pregnancy pillow for better sleep
Consider taking a breastfeeding class or researching nursing resources
Teaser for next week
Stay tuned for insights on managing new symptoms like sciatica pain and navigating vivid dreams.
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K
Kimberly
29 Nov 2023

I had another ultrasound the other day at 26W,5d but I'm measuring at 28 W, 5d. Is anyone else's baby measuring bigger? Does it sound normal?

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
4 comments
C
Carly
One of my baby’s are measuring 33 weeks & im 31 weeks. It’s normal
27 Mar 2024

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Jessii
It’s normal. I was 30 weeks measuring 34 weeks. I’m 37 now and he’s only a a few days or so ahead now.
27 Mar 2024

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Kayla
21 Oct 2023

Was told I was measuring small for 26w and 2days at my growth scan today. After my last growth scan they said they looked perfect and measuring correctly, they are now both 1lb and 11oz and slightly freaked out 🥲

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
2 comments
M
MusiQ
Don't get freaked out by any of that. Take a deep breath and focus on healthy beautiful babies. Thought is the cause of it all so don't allow any fear in your heart. Much Love
27 Mar 2024

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Nicole 🩷
When I was at 25 weeks, they measured my baby, 1 lb, and 15 oz. I think it is ok to be a little bit small, but they will grow out in no time. Twin pregnancy should be have an exceptional because they tend to grow smaller than a singleton pregnancy, but don't worry!
27 Mar 2024

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Alondra
30 Sep 2023

Anyone else with big babies? My son was measuring in the 95th percentile at 20 weeks currently 26w never had babies on the bigger side. What was y’all experience?

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
1 comments
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Taylor R
My baby was in the 93rd at 19 weeks and then she was in the 90th percentile at 28 weeks. This is my first big baby my other two were 7lbs & 5lbs….
27 Mar 2024

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A
Alexandria
22 Sep 2023

Anyone have any pics of 26w 3D ultrasound? It’s been 2 years since I’ve been prego and we go Saturday at 26.2!

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
8 comments
L
Lara
Here’s mine at 24 weeks
27 Mar 2024

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Alexandria
Omg how cuteeee
27 Mar 2024

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Beth
17 Feb 2023

I had a slight pink discharge this morning and a little possibly later not sure what's happening any advice I'm 26w

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
2 comments
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Melissa
I had light pink spotting and ob wasnt concern
27 Mar 2024

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Kenzi
Normal. You’re only supposed to worry when it’s like period blood!
27 Mar 2024

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Briana
31 May 2022

Starting maybe week 24ish I wanna say I started getting round ligament pain it’s worse at night. Today I’ve had it almost the whole day. I’m 26w is that normal? I just took a really warm shower and it helped a ton. But does round ligament pain last for hours how was everyone else’s experience and when did it seem to decrease?

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
2 comments
N
Nanny
It comes and goes for me. Laying down or just repositioning my body will make it go away sometimes. Also drinking water helps decrease the pain.
27 Mar 2024

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Tasha
Yes sometimes Baby turning but once baby has settle in right position. The pain will ease
27 Mar 2024

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Olivia
16 May 2022

Is there any kind of energy drink I can drink while 26W pregnant? I need some kind of caffeine fix 😴

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
4 comments
O
Olivia
I’m so sick of coffee lol .. I’ve been treating myself to McDonald’s mocha frappe every here and there but I’m stuck at work and all these energy drinks are staring me down 🤣
27 Mar 2024

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Tirz
Try the mountaindew energy drink. Alot lower caffeine count than like monsters/reigns/bangs
27 Mar 2024

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