Everything you need to know about week 26 of pregnancy

26th Week of Pregnancy (Week 26)

Welcome to the 26th week of pregnancy – the end of the second trimester is getting closer! During this phase, your baby is making great developmental strides, and your body – especially as an expectant mother – continues to change noticeably. Feeling your baby move is now a regular part of the day – or night – for many pregnant women.

Many women report more vivid dreams, slight shortness of breath, or occasional back and pelvic pain. Your weight continues to increase, while your baby's facial features, such as nostrils, ears, and other fine details, become more defined.

At the same time, excitement and anticipation grow: the bond with your baby is getting stronger, and many expectant parents begin to think more consciously about the birth, maternity leave, upcoming check-ups, and their own checklist for the final weeks.

Week 26 is an exciting milestone, where you may already feel a bit more confident – and yet new questions arise every week. Let’s take a look together at how your baby is developing, what is happening in your body, and which tips can help you feel your best. By the way: Your blood now plays a central role too, as it supplies your baby with essential nutrients.

Baby’s Development in Week 26

In the 26th week of pregnancy, your baby is about 35 cm long (crown to heel) and weighs around 800 to 900 grams. It continues to grow steadily – and with it, its abilities are maturing: your baby opens and closes its eyes, reacts to light stimuli, and already recognises your voice.

The brain is also developing rapidly. The brain’s surface begins to form grooves – a sign of increasing neural activity. The lungs are also continuing to mature: the baby regularly practises breathing movements, even though it is still supplied with oxygen entirely through the placenta.

The development of the senses is also progressing: your child perceives sounds, movement, and even taste – by swallowing amniotic fluid, which is slightly flavoured. The first fat layers under the skin are making the baby rounder and will later help with temperature regulation.

Many babies are very active in week 26 – turning, kicking, grabbing the umbilical cord, and reacting to external stimuli. You might even feel a gentle bout of hiccups – a sign that the swallowing reflex is being further trained.

Your Body in the 26th Week of Pregnancy

In week 26, your body continues to change noticeably: your baby bump is now unmistakable and your centre of gravity shifts – which can lead to back pain, an altered gait, and muscle tension.

Your uterus continues to grow and may now press on organs such as your stomach, bladder, or lungs. Many pregnant women report shortness of breath, heartburn, or needing to urinate more often. This is completely normal – your body is constantly adapting to your baby’s needs.

With the increase in blood volume and hormonal changes, you may experience water retention, especially in your legs and feet. Hot flushes, increased sweating, and sensitive areas of skin are also common symptoms at this stage.

Your breasts are continuing to prepare for breastfeeding – they may feel tender or already secrete colostrum. You might also notice a stronger feeling of tightness or itching on your belly as your skin stretches.

Tip: Now is a good time to start targeted pelvic floor exercises and to familiarise yourself with birth preparation or maternity leave regulations.