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 drawing near! During this phase, your baby is making great developmental strides, and your body – especially as an expectant mother – continues to change noticeably. For many pregnant women, feeling the baby move has now become a regular part of the day – or even the night.

Many women report more intense dreams, mild shortness of breath, or occasional back and pelvic pain. Weight also continues to increase, while the baby’s facial features, such as the nostrils, ears, and other delicate shapes, become more defined.

At the same time, anticipation is growing: the bond with the baby becomes stronger, and many expectant parents begin to think more consciously about the birth, maternity leave, upcoming examinations, and a personal checklist for the final weeks.

Week 26 of pregnancy is therefore an exciting milestone, at which you might already be feeling 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 completely at ease. By the way: your blood now plays a central role too, as it supplies your baby with important nutrients.

Development of the baby in the 26th week of pregnancy

At 26 weeks pregnant, your baby is about 35 cm long (from crown to heel) and weighs around 800 to 900 grams. It continues to grow steadily – and with it, its abilities develop: your baby opens and closes its eyes, reacts to light stimuli and can already recognise your voice.

The brain is also developing rapidly. The surface of the brain begins to form grooves – a sign of increasing neural activity. In addition, the lungs continue to mature: the baby regularly practises breathing movements, even though it is still fully supplied with oxygen via the placenta.

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

Many babies are very active in week 26 of pregnancy – they turn, kick, reach for the umbilical cord, and respond 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 the 26th week of pregnancy, your body continues to change noticeably: your baby bump is now impossible to miss and your centre of gravity shifts – this can lead to back pain, a changed gait and tension.

The uterus also continues to grow and can now put pressure on organs such as the stomach, bladder, or lungs. Many pregnant women report shortness of breath, heartburn, or more frequent urination. This is completely normal – your body is constantly adapting to your baby’s needs.

With the increase in blood volume and hormonal changes, fluid retention can occur, particularly in the legs and feet. Hot flushes, increased sweating, and sensitive areas of skin are also common accompanying symptoms during this phase.

The breasts continue to prepare for breastfeeding – they may be sensitive or already secrete colostrum. You might also notice a stronger feeling of tightness or itching on your belly due to the skin stretching.

Tip: Now is a good time to start targeted pelvic floor training and to familiarise yourself with the topics of birth preparation or maternity leave periods.

The pram you've always wanted.

Tips for the 26th week of pregnancy

• 🤰 Strengthen your pelvic floor & posture: Now is the ideal time to start gentle pelvic floor exercises. They help with birth preparation and prevent problems later on.
• 💧 Relieve water retention: Elevating the legs, gentle exercise (e.g. swimming), and drinking plenty of water can help reduce swelling. Support stockings provide additional assistance.
• 🥗 Keep an eye on your iron and magnesium levels: Pay attention to foods rich in iron and magnesium to counteract fatigue, calf cramps, and weakness. Supplements can also be beneficial.
• 🛌 Sleep more restfully: Use a nursing pillow to lie more comfortably, and avoid eating heavy meals too late. Sleeping on your left side also improves blood circulation to the baby and placenta.
• 📝 Planning birth and maternity leave: Maternity leave is slowly approaching: Clarify deadlines with your employer in good time and consider, for example, when you would like to pack your hospital bag.
• 📚 Exchange & build knowledge: Perhaps you would like to sign up for a childbirth preparation course or online offerings now. Exchanging experiences with other pregnant women is often beneficial and motivating.
  
  
  
  

The most frequently asked questions about the 26th week of pregnancy

What happens to the baby in week 26 of pregnancy?

In week 26 of pregnancy, the foetus continues to grow, lung development begins, and the first reflexes such as grasping with the hand can be observed.

How big is my baby at 26 weeks pregnant?

Your baby measures about 35 cm from head to heel – roughly the size of a small pumpkin.

Which symptoms are common in the 26th week of pregnancy?

Typical symptoms include back pain, sleep problems, shortness of breath, and pressure on the abdominal wall caused by the growing baby.

What is the position of the baby at 26 weeks pregnant?

In week 26 of pregnancy, your baby still has plenty of space, can do somersaults, and often changes position.

How can I alleviate sleep problems during pregnancy?

Sleeping on your left side, using a nursing pillow and calm routines help with sleep problems – your partner can actively support you.

What does Braxton-Hicks mean in the 26th week of pregnancy?

Braxton Hicks contractions are practice contractions – they train the uterus but are not a sign that labour is starting.

How does my baby's immune system develop?

The immune system continues to develop, the first blood cells are formed – the foetus is being prepared for life outside.

Can I still take medication when I have a cold?

Talk to your doctor or gynaecologist before taking any medication – not all are suitable during pregnancy.

What can I do about worries concerning a premature baby?

The chances of survival for a premature baby born at 26 weeks are already quite high with good medical care – speak openly with your doctor.

How does nutrition affect my baby now?

A balanced diet supports growth, blood sugar levels, and the development of blood vessels in the baby.

What does the baby see now through the abdominal wall?

Through the thin abdominal wall, your baby perceives light, colours and movements – for example, it reacts to brightness.

When can I hear the baby's heartbeat?

From the 26th week of pregnancy, the heartbeat can often be clearly heard with a simple Doppler device or during an ultrasound.

What can I do about stomach noises and flatulence?

Light exercise, plenty of water, and a diet rich in fibre help against bowel noises and wind in the intestines.

The dream buggy you always wanted.

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