Pregnancy Calendar

What happens to me?

You have been able to feel the baby move for quite a few weeks now. At this point other people can feel the baby move by placing their hands on your abdomen when the baby is moving around. Finding a comfortable position for sleeping may be come a tough task. Nighttime trips to the bathroom, or to get water or snacks, cut into your sleep, as do the midnight movements of the baby. Since you need all the sleep you can get, take a nap during the day if at all possible. Your fingers, wrists and hands may be feeling achy and numb. Wearing a brace and/or taking vitamin B6 should help. Talk to your doctor about other ways to help you cope.

How much will I be showing?

If you have been following a nutritious, balanced meal plan your weight gain is probably between 16-22 pounds. Your uterus is now approximately 2 ½ inches from your belly button.

What happens to baby?

Veins are visible through the baby's skin, which is quickly changing from transparent to opaque. The baby is able to hear you and those around you. Your heart beating, digestive noises, and other body functions can be heard by the baby, as well as noises from the outside world. The baby may jump at a sudden noise and is aware of lightness and darkness. If you shine a light on your abdomen, the baby will turn its head, which, according to researchers, means the optic nerve is working.

The baby may also make breathing movements, but has no air in the lungs yet. At 26 weeks fetal brain scans show response to touch.

How big is the baby?

The baby now weighs between 1 1/2 and 2 pounds and is over 9 inches long.

Tip of the Week

A body pillow is a good recommendation for this time of your pregnancy. It will allow you to support your legs and your growing belly. If you don't have a body pillow, try making use of several regular pillows.

Want to figure out your due date? Click Here

Just found out you're pregnant? Don't forget to check out the previous Weeks!