Week 26 of Pregnancy
Learn about your baby's development and what to expect at 26 weeks pregnant.
Baby's Size This Week
Baby Development at Week 26
- ● At week 26, your baby is approximately 35.6 cm and weighs around 760g.
- ● The lungs are maturing rapidly, with the surfactant-producing cells (type II pneumocytes) becoming more active — a key milestone for respiratory readiness.
- ● Your baby's eyes, which have been fused shut since early development, are now beginning to open and can detect changes in light.
- ● Rapid brain growth continues, with the brain doubling in weight over the next four weeks as neural connections multiply exponentially.
- ● Your baby has distinct sleep and wake cycles and is increasingly responsive to sounds, including your voice, music, and external noises.
- ● The immune system is beginning to develop as your body transfers antibodies across the placenta to help protect your baby after birth.
Your Body at Week 26
- ● At week 26, your growing belly may cause backaches and difficulty finding a comfortable sleeping position.
- ● Braxton Hicks contractions (mild, irregular practice contractions) may become more frequent, especially after physical activity or dehydration.
- ● Heartburn and indigestion are common as the growing uterus puts pressure on the stomach; proton pump inhibitors safe for pregnancy may be prescribed if lifestyle changes are insufficient.
- ● Carpal tunnel syndrome — tingling or numbness in the hands — can develop due to fluid accumulation around the wrist's nerve pathways.
- ● Hemorrhoids may appear or worsen as the uterus places increasing pressure on pelvic veins; high-fiber diet and adequate hydration help prevent constipation.
- ● You may be experiencing shortness of breath as the uterus begins to push against the diaphragm — this will temporarily ease once the baby drops later in pregnancy.
Week 26 Checklist
- ☐ Complete your glucose challenge test (GCT) for gestational diabetes screening between weeks 24–28 if not yet done.
- ☐ Attend all scheduled prenatal appointments and follow recommended screenings for blood pressure and anemia.
- ☐ Stay active with low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga to manage backache and improve sleep quality.
- ☐ Begin planning the nursery and ordering major furniture items — cribs and dressers can take several weeks to arrive.
- ☐ Focus on adequate iron, calcium, and omega-3 intake in your diet to support fetal brain and bone development.
- ☐ Discuss with your healthcare provider whether you will bank or donate cord blood, as arrangements must be made before delivery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I expect at 26 weeks pregnant?
At 26 weeks pregnant, you are in the second trimester. Your baby is about the size of a Scallion (35.6 cm) and is developing eye-opening ability, immune function, and lung maturity. Common symptoms include heartburn, backache, Braxton Hicks contractions, carpal tunnel, and shortness of breath. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
How big is my baby at 26 weeks?
At week 26, your baby is approximately 35.6 cm in length and weighs around 760g — roughly the size of a Scallion. These measurements are averages based on WHO fetal growth charts; individual babies vary naturally in size.
Can my baby open their eyes at 26 weeks?
Yes, around weeks 25–26 your baby's eyelids begin to open for the first time. The eyes can detect changes in light levels — when a bright light is shone on your abdomen, your baby may turn toward or away from it. The retina is still maturing, and true visual acuity will develop after birth.
What causes carpal tunnel syndrome during pregnancy?
Pregnancy-related carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by fluid retention and swelling that compresses the median nerve as it passes through the wrist. Symptoms include tingling, numbness, and pain in the thumb, index, and middle fingers, often worse at night. Wearing a wrist splint at night, avoiding repetitive hand movements, and gentle stretching can help. Symptoms typically resolve after delivery.
How much weight should I have gained by 26 weeks?
For women with a pre-pregnancy BMI in the normal range (18.5–24.9), typical weight gain by 26 weeks is approximately 7–10 kg (15–22 lbs). Guidelines from ACOG recommend a total gain of 11–16 kg (25–35 lbs) for singleton pregnancies. Your provider will monitor your weight gain pattern at each prenatal visit.
Track Your Exact Pregnancy Week
Use our free Pregnancy Week Tracker to find out exactly how far along you are based on your last menstrual period or due date.
Track My Pregnancy →Sources
- ACOG
- WHO Fetal Growth Charts
- Mayo Clinic
Medical disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for guidance specific to your pregnancy.