All weeks

Second Trimester

Week 26 of pregnancy

Your baby is the size of a lettuce.

Length: 35.6 cm / 14.0 in · Weight: 760 g / 26.8 oz

Baby at 26 weeks

  • Eyes opening for the first time.
  • Baby may respond to light + sound from outside.
  • Brain activity similar to a newborn.

What you may feel

  • Bigger bump pressing on lungs.
  • Shortness of breath.
  • Pubic symphysis dysfunction (SPD) possible.
  • Trouble sleeping.

This week’s checklist

  • Sleep with a pregnancy pillow.
  • Slow + breathe deeply when short of breath.
  • Discuss any pelvic pain with midwife.

Key milestone

Baby's eyes open for the first time.

Doctor / midwife visits

Antenatal classes starting (NCT, NHS).

Top foods this week

Educational only — not medical advice. Always consult your midwife or GP. Sources: NICE NG201 antenatal care, NICE NG207 inducing labour, NHS, RCOG. Read the full medical disclaimer.