• Increased Baby Movements: You will likely feel more frequent and stronger movements from your baby as their muscles and nervous system continue to develop.
• Back Pain: As your belly grows, you may experience increased pressure on your back, which can lead to discomfort or pain.
• Shortness of Breath: The growing uterus puts pressure on your diaphragm, which may cause shortness of breath, especially after physical exertion.
• Heartburn and Indigestion: The growing uterus continues to press on your stomach, which can cause heartburn and indigestion.
• Swollen Feet and Ankles: Fluid retention and pressure from your uterus can cause swelling, especially in your lower legs and feet.
• Stretch Marks: As your skin stretches to accommodate your baby’s growth, stretch marks may appear on your abdomen, breasts, or thighs.
• Fatigue: Your energy levels may fluctuate, and you might feel more tired as your body works harder to support your pregnancy.
• Frequent Urination: Your growing uterus continues to put pressure on your bladder, leading to more frequent trips to the bathroom.
• Mood Swings: Hormonal fluctuations can cause mood changes. You may feel more emotional or irritable than usual.

Tracking these symptoms can help you understand what to expect and when to reach out to your doctor. Always consult your doctor if you experience any unusual or severe symptoms.
 

Baby’s Growth in the Womb

• Organ Development: The baby’s lungs are developing, and although they aren’t fully functional yet, they are producing surfactant, a substance that helps the lungs expand after birth. The baby’s brain is growing rapidly and starting to control more bodily functions.
• Physical Features: Your baby’s skin is becoming less translucent and is beginning to thicken as they gain more fat. Their facial features are becoming more distinct, and they may have eyebrows and eyelashes now. Your baby’s hearing is improving, and they can respond to sounds from the outside world, including your voice and heartbeat. Their eyes are also becoming more sensitive to light.
• Weight of the Foetus: At 26 weeks, your baby weighs about 760 grams and is steadily gaining weight as they prepare for life outside the womb. Your baby is about the size of a brinjal (eggplant), measuring around 35 cm in length.
• Movement of the Baby: The baby is moving more vigorously, and you may notice stronger kicks and rolls. You may even feel your baby stretching or changing position. You’ll likely feel your baby moving frequently as they develop muscle control. These movements may include kicks, rolls, and stretches

Physiological Changes During Week 26 of Pregnancy

• Breasts: Your breasts may continue to grow and become more tender. You may also begin producing colostrum, a nutrient-rich fluid that will nourish your baby after birth.
• Skin, Hair, and Nails: Hormonal changes continue to affect your skin, hair, and nails. Some women experience changes in skin pigmentation, such as darkening around the nipples or the appearance of a dark line down the belly (linea nigra). You may also notice your hair becoming thicker or shinier.
• Respiratory and Cardiovascular Systems: Shortness of breath is common as the uterus presses against your diaphragm. You may feel winded more easily, especially after physical activity. Your blood volume continues to increase, and the added weight may cause swelling in your feet, ankles, and legs. It’s important to elevate your feet and avoid standing for long periods.
• Uterus and Cervical Position: Your uterus is continuing to expand, and it’s likely pressing against other organs, which could lead to more frequent urination and discomfort.
• Vaginal Discharge: Increased discharge is normal during pregnancy. It should be clear or milky and odourless. If you notice any changes in the colour, consistency, or smell of your discharge, contact your doctor.
   

• Glucose Screening

  If you haven’t already had the glucose screening, your doctor may recommend it this week to check for gestational diabetes.

• Ultrasound

  Your doctor may schedule an ultrasound to check the baby’s growth and development, assess the amount of amniotic fluid, and monitor the placenta’s position.

• Blood Pressure Check

  Monitoring blood pressure is important to detect any early signs of preeclampsia, a condition characterised by high blood pressure during pregnancy.

• Urine Test

  Your doctor will likely perform a urine test to check for protein, glucose, or signs of urinary tract infections (UTIs) or gestational diabetes.