Welcome to week 26! As you move further into your second trimester, you might be feeling a mix of excitement, anticipation, and perhaps a few new physical sensations. This is a time of significant growth and development for your little one, and for you, it often brings a deeper connection to the pregnancy experience.
What's happening with baby
This week, your baby is roughly the size of a bunch of scallions, continuing their incredible journey of growth. A truly remarkable milestone this week is that your baby's eyes are opening for the very first time! While their vision is still developing, they can now perceive light and shadows, reacting to bright lights shining on your belly. Their brain activity is becoming more complex, and they're developing a startle reflex, responding to sudden noises or movements. The lungs are also continuing to mature, producing surfactant, a substance vital for breathing outside the womb. Your baby is also gaining more fat, which will help them regulate their body temperature after birth. These intricate developments highlight the incredible progress happening within you each day.
What you might be feeling
As your baby grows, you might notice some shifts in your own body. Braxton Hicks contractions, often described as a tightening or hardening of your uterus, might become more frequent. These are generally mild and irregular, a way for your uterus to practice for labor. Many pregnant people also experience increased back pain as their center of gravity shifts and ligaments soften. You might also find yourself feeling more fatigued, as your body works hard to support your growing baby. Some parents-to-be also report vivid dreams during this period, possibly due to hormonal changes or the subconscious processing of all the exciting changes ahead. It’s a time when you might feel more connected to your baby's movements, which are likely becoming stronger and more distinct.
