Week 26: Eyes Are Opening for the First Time
Your baby's eyes are opening for the first time this week after being fused shut since early pregnancy, and the eyes can now blink.
Baby's Development
Your baby's eyes are opening for the first time since fusing shut early in pregnancy. While there's nothing to see in the dark womb, this is an important developmental milestone, and your baby can now blink.
The lungs continue maturing, developing more of the surfactant needed for breathing after birth. Your baby is also developing a regular pattern of waking and sleeping, though it won't necessarily align with your own schedule.
Changes in Your Body
You're approaching the end of the second trimester. Many women start to feel the early signs of third-trimester fatigue and discomfort returning around this time, alongside the excitement of getting closer to meeting their baby.
Common Symptoms
At 26 weeks, you might notice:
- Increasing fatigue
- Backaches
- Braxton Hicks contractions becoming slightly more noticeable
- Swelling
- Leg cramps
- Shortness of breath with exertion
Nutrition This Week
Continue prioritizing balanced meals with adequate protein, calcium, and iron. If heartburn has worsened, avoid large meals before bedtime and consider propping yourself up slightly while sleeping.
Safe Exercises
As discomfort increases, focus on whatever gentle movement feels good rather than pushing through pain. Walking and swimming remain reliable, comfortable choices for most women at this stage.
Medical Checklist
This week:
- Ask your doctor about the timing of your RhoGAM shot if you're Rh-negative
- Start finalizing childbirth class enrollment if you haven't
- Continue monitoring movement and symptoms
Doctor Visit Guide
If you haven't had your glucose screening yet, it's typically completed by the end of this week or next. Your doctor will also begin discussing third-trimester care plans in more detail soon.