26th Week of Pregnancy

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What changes are occurring with your body?

The top of your uterus can now be felt about 2 ½ inches above your belly button. During the remainder of your pregnancy you will grow about a ½ inch per week. If you have been watching your weight throughout your pregnancy and have been sticking to a balanced diet, your weight gain should be between 16 and 22 pounds. *

How big is your baby?

Your baby is around 13 inches long and weighs 2 pounds.*

What is happening with your baby?

The development that is occurring at this stage may seem small and insignificant, but it is very important as your baby begins to prepare for his/her entry into the world. The nerves in the ears are developing and allowing your baby to respond more consistently to the sounds that he/she hears. Your baby is also continuing to swallow amniotic fluid which is causing his/her lungs to develop. If you are having a little boy, his testicles have begun their descent into his scrotum. *

What should you plan for this week?

During your next prenatal appointment you should be prepared for the following tests and discussions:

Tips for making your pregnancy better:

Many women enjoy eating fish, but during pregnancy there are “good” fish choices and “bad” fish choices. The following is a sample list of good fish which can be eaten during pregnancy:

  • bass
  • catfish
  • cod
  • flounder
  • freshwater perch
  • salmon

Fish that should be avoided include:

  • shark
  • swordfish
  • king mackerel
  • fresh tuna
  • sea bass
  • tilefish
  • fish that have been exposed to industrial pollutants
  • raw shellfish

Canned or packaged tuna is safe to eat. It is important to remember that you should not eat more than 12 ounces of any fish in a given week. Would you like more information on foods to avoid? We also have a comprehensive list of fish and mercury levels that you can use to evaluate which fish you should choose to eat.

Tips for mom’s partner:

As your partner reaches the end of the second trimester, she may begin to feel less attractive. It is important for you to communicate how beautiful she truly is. Make a special attempt this week to make her feel special by taking her on a date or planning a special outing. In Week 25 instructions for pedicures/manicures were given, but you could also schedule an appointment for a day at a spa or a mini-makeover. It could even be as simple as buying her a new outfit. Just make sure it will fit her!

Last Updated: 08/2006

* The information that the American Pregnancy Association provides is used as a general guide for healthy pregnancy development, although development may vary due to the mother’s health or a miscalculation of ovulation. Each woman and pregnancy is unique and may be experienced differently. Remember that babies develop at different rates, even before they are born. The purpose of this developmental information is to give you a general idea of how your baby is growing, and you must remember that your baby’s growth may vary from that which is outlined.