26weeks
pregnant

Written by The BabyCenter Editorial Team

Highlights this week

Your baby's tastebuds have finished developing.

It's normal to experience hot flashes in pregnancy. Try these tips to keep cool.

Baby development at 26 weeks

Your baby may measure about 36cm/15in long with feet extended. If you could see your baby now, you might be able to get a glimpse of their eyes, which are now beginning to open. Response to sound grows more consistent toward the end of the seventh month, when the nerve pathways to the ears are complete. Read more information on your baby's development this week.

baby now breathing small amounts of amniotic fluid

Your baby at 26 weeks

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Your baby is as long as a green onion

length

35.6

head to toe

weight

760

Pregnancy symptoms at 26 weeks

You're nearing the home stretch -- the third trimester. Before you know it, you'll be cradling your baby in your arms. Around this time, you may see a slight increase in your blood pressure, which is normal. But if your weight suddenly shoots up, or your vision blurs, and your hands and feet swell dramatically, you may have pre-eclampsia. Call your doctor or midwife immediately if you notice any of these symptoms. Check out the other symptoms you should never ignore.

If you have a swab to check for a vaginal infection during pregnancy such as yeast infection, the results may come back positive for group B streptococcus (GBS) too. This is a common infection which lots of women have without knowing about it and without it causing any harm, but it can be dangerous for newborns -- find out why.

Has your partner organized their parental or paternity leave? Ask what arrangements their company has in place and learn about what they may be eligible for through Employment Insurance (EI).

Your body at 26 weeks

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Pregnancy Tip

"To help yourself relax, immerse your feet in a basin filled with warm water. Add a few drops of scented oil and enjoy." -- Anonymous

Community

Baby equipment is big business and there is a lot of choice out there -- but do you really need everything? And where you grab the best deals? Get tips from experienced moms in our BabyCenter Canada Bargain Hunters group.

Other hot topics this week

Now's a good time to begin your childcare search in earnest.

If you're making a birth plan, keep it flexible. You'll want to talk to your partner but consider consulting your doctor, midwife and prenatal class instructor on their views too.

Vegetarians read on -- follow our tips for getting all those essential vitamins, minerals and nutrients.

Episiotomy is no longer a routine procedure during delivery, but it is still used when needed – find out more.

Expecting twins or more? You may still be able to have a vaginal delivery -- many women do -- but be prepared for the potential complications of multiple pregnancy.

The BabyCenter Editorial Team

BabyCenter’s talented team of editors and writers has decades of experience creating inspiring content.

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