Week 26 of Pregnancy

Welcome to week 26 of your second trimester! Your baby is becoming more active and you may be feeling those exciting kicks and movements. The sensory systems are developing rapidly — your baby can now hear your voice, respond to light, and has developed taste buds.

The skeleton is hardening from cartilage to bone, and the skin is developing its layers. Fingerprints and toeprints are forming, making your baby truly unique. Fat stores are beginning to accumulate under the skin, which will help regulate body temperature after birth.

Week 26 brings you into the more comfortable second trimester. Many women find that morning sickness eases and energy levels improve during this period. You may start to notice a visible baby bump as your uterus expands.

Round ligament pain — sharp or jabbing pains in the lower abdomen — is common as the ligaments supporting your uterus stretch. You might experience nasal congestion, leg cramps, and mild swelling in your hands and feet.

The exciting milestone of feeling your baby move (called "quickening") typically happens between weeks 16-25. These first flutters may feel like bubbles or butterflies in your stomach. Skin changes like the linea nigra (dark line down your belly) and darkened areolas are normal.

Start or continue exercising: Moderate exercise like walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga can help with energy, mood, and preparation for labor. Aim for 30 minutes most days.

Plan your anatomy scan: The mid-pregnancy ultrasound (around weeks 18-20) is a detailed check of your baby's development. This is often when you can learn your baby's sex if you choose.

Sleep on your side: As your belly grows, sleeping on your left side improves blood flow to your baby. A pregnancy pillow can make side-sleeping more comfortable.

Stay on top of dental care: Pregnancy hormones can affect your gums. Keep up with dental visits and good oral hygiene to prevent pregnancy gingivitis.