Your Baby’s Development at 26 Weeks

What Are My Baby’s Weight & Size at 26 Weeks?

When you are 26 weeks pregnant, your baby will weigh just over 2 pounds (913 grams), about as much as a pineapple. Baby is about 13 inches (35 cm) long, from crown to rump (your baby’s legs are tucked under and cannot be measured). Your baby still looks wrinkly but will continue to gain weight steadily over the next 14 weeks until birth.

Development Milestones at 26 Weeks

Your baby's eyes have been sealed shut for the last few months, but they'll soon open and begin to blink. Depending on ethnicity, some babies will be born with blue or blue-gray eyes (which may change color in the first year of life) and others with brown or dark eyes. Eyelashes are growing in, and so is more hair on the head!

Your baby’s brain is still developing rapidly. Baby can hear your voice and the sounds around you. Even more exciting, your baby’s heartbeat will speed up, or baby will move around, in response to these sounds.

Your Body at 26 Weeks Pregnant

Pregnancy Symptoms at 26 Weeks

You are now two-thirds of the way through your pregnancy, and your body is still going through lots of changes. Some things that may be happening:

• Your navel: Your belly button (navel) may change from an “innie” to an “outie," or your “outie” may protrude even more. As your uterus expands, it pushes your abdomen and makes your belly button “pop.” It should revert back to normal after your baby’s birth.
• Insomnia: This time of pregnancy is the “perfect storm” for things that make sleeping more difficult. A combination of leg cramps, indigestion, and your growing belly can add to discomfort. Try to exercise, maintain a healthy diet, and talk to your doctor if you're unable to get enough sleep.
• Skin changes: Pregnancy hormones can disrupt your skin and cause dry skin, oily skin, or even a combination. You might also experience melasma, a patch of discoloration on your skin. Even the best skin care routine might need some adjusting, so try a gentle cleanser and an oil-free moisturizer.
• Lower back pain: More than half of pregnant women have back pain caused by the belly’s growth, weight, and hormones. Try moving around with gentle exercises like walking, swimming, and stretching.

Important Appointments at 26 Weeks

Your doctor will likely see you for an appointment to be scheduled between week 24 and 28 of pregnancy. Glucose screening is usually done during this time to check for gestational diabetes, a short-term form of diabetes that may happen during pregnancy. At any time during your pregnancy, reach out to your doctor if you have questions or concerns.

Tip for This Week

Your uterus provides a safe haven for your baby before birth. But what about after delivery? Your baby will be moving about your home in what seems like no time at all. Take the time now to safeguard your home by babyproofing. Covering electrical outlets, removing choking hazards, installing smoke alarms, and thinking about how you will block off staircases are just some of the steps to ensuring your child's safety. Take every precaution you can think of, but remember — no amount of babyproofing can substitute for careful supervision of your child.