26 Weeks Pregnant

As your baby’s world remains a busy place to be, your body continues to change in response to all of the activity. In this and future weeks, you will start to experience “Braxton Hicks” contractions, which we briefly mentioned last week. Let’s first update you on your baby’s development, and then we will take a closer look at these contractions and the purpose they serve.

Moving On Up To Week 26

Your baby is nearing the two pound mark, and now measures in at about 14 inches. The baby’s brain, which has grown rapidly in the past 3 weeks, is now sending brain wave activity. As in past weeks, it is important for you to stay in contact with your baby, whether through talking or rubbing your belly. Your baby can now respond to touch! Your baby will still be very fidgety as well, but this activity will start diminishing after this week. After all, your little one is growing every day, and will soon be too big to wiggle in such a confined space.

Preparing For Labor

You feel your lower abdomen tighten and then relax a short time after. Are you having contractions? Could this be it? Well, yes and no. True, you are having what are known as Braxton Hicks contractions, and these are a normal part of any pregnancy. However, these contractions are not a sign that you are going into labor. Similar to menstrual cramps, these contractions are usually painless and occur infrequently. The purpose of these contractions is to tone your uterus, soften your cervix, and prepare you for labor. So, while these cramps may be a bit bothersome, know that they are providing your body an important service and could help result in an easier labor. As for the rest of your body, this week you will need to tack another 300 – 500 calories onto your daily intake. Make sure these are coming from healthful sources!

Looking Forward In Your Pregnancy

Next week will mark the end of your second trimester, and you will forge ahead to the final segment of your pregnancy. You should be proud of the progress you and your baby have made thus far, and know that the end is within sight. Be sure to reward yourself with some extra rest and relaxation, or with a moderate serving size of your favorite treat. You deserve it!