Week 26 : your baby is developing senses like touch and hearing . Talking, reading, or playing music can be a great way to bond with your little one!

Mom’s Health Concerns
  • Weight gain: You may have gained around 8-11 kg by now
  • Gestational diabetes screening (if not done yet)
  • Possible varicose veins and hemorrhoids
  • Constipation due to hormonal changes
  • Increased fatigue and trouble sleeping
  • Vision changes (dry eyes, mild blurriness due to fluid retention)
Baby Activities
  • Your baby is about the size of a butternut squash (~35.6 cm or 14 inches long) and weighs around 760-900 grams (1.7-2 lbs).
  • Baby's eyes are now open, and they can blink!
  • Lungs continue maturing, preparing for breathing outside the womb
  • Baby can recognize voices and respond to sounds
  • Developing stronger reflexes, including sucking and grasping
  • Baby practices inhaling and exhaling amniotic fluid
  • Movements may feel more coordinated and rhythmic
Symptoms
  • Increased baby movements and stronger kicks
  • Back pain and pelvic pressure due to uterus growth
  • Swelling in feet, hands, and ankles (watch for sudden or severe swelling)
  • Shortness of breath as baby presses against lungs
  • Frequent urination due to increased pressure on the bladder
  • Heartburn, indigestion, and acid reflux
  • Leg cramps and restless legs, especially at night
  • Dry, itchy skin and possible stretch marks
  • Braxton Hicks contractions (practice contractions that are mild and irregular)
emotional changes
  • Feeling more connected with baby due to increased movement
  • Mood swings due to hormonal shifts
  • Anxiety about labor and delivery
  • Excitement and nesting instincts may start kicking in
When to Call the Doctor
  • Severe abdominal pain or intense cramps
  • Heavy bleeding or unusual discharge
  • Frequent or painful contractions (could be a sign of preterm labor)
  • Severe dizziness, fainting, or blurred vision
  • Swelling in hands, face, or legs (possible preeclampsia)
  • Significantly reduced or no baby movement
safe-actions
The Good
green-signal
green-signal
green-signal
green-signal
The Bad
red-signal
red-signal
red-signal
red-signal
Food to Eat
  • Protein-rich foods: Lean meats, eggs, dairy, tofu, beans, nuts
  • Iron-rich foods to prevent anemia: Spinach, red meat, lentils, dried fruits
  • Calcium for baby’s bone growth: Dairy, almonds, sesame seeds
  • Fiber-rich foods: Whole grains, fruits, and vegetables (to prevent constipation)
  • Omega-3 fatty acids for brain development: Salmon, walnuts, flaxseeds
Food To Avoid
  • Raw or undercooked seafood, meat, and eggs
  • Unpasteurized dairy products
  • High-mercury fish (shark, swordfish, king mackerel)
  • Too much caffeine (limit to 200 mg/day)
  • Overly processed, sugary, or salty foods
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