§second trimester · week 26 of 40
you're 26 weeks pregnant.
last revised · baby is about 35.6 cm (14.0") · 760 g (26.8 oz)
about the size of a cucumber.
Eyes open for the first time this week. The baby can see only dim shadows but reacts to bright light through the belly.
this week's highlights
- Eyes open for first time
- Reacts to bright light
- Lungs start surfactant production in volume
- Brain grows rapidly
how your baby looks
Skinnier than they'll be at birth but starting to look more like a newborn. Eyelashes are present, and eyes flutter open and shut.
body in focus
- head
- Eyes open and react to light.
- body
- Lungs produce more surfactant for future breathing.
- hands
- Tiny fingers explore the face and body.
- feet
- Kicks can be felt by partners on the belly.
what's happening in your body
Bump is firmly above the belly button. Many feel persistent back ache. Braxton-Hicks practice contractions are routine.
gentle tips
- Use a pregnancy pillow for side sleeping support.
- Drink water at the first sign of Braxton-Hicks.
- Practice perineal massage daily to prepare for birth.
- Take prenatal yoga or breath-work classes.
- Plan hospital tour or home-birth setup in coming weeks.
what to expect next
Third trimester starts in about a week. From there, expect more discomfort but also more interaction with your moving baby.