Pregnancy – Week 26

You have now reached week 26. If you are working you need to decide when you are going to stop. Remember that you should notify your employer in writing three weeks before you intend to leave. If you think you may qualify for an allowance from Centrelink, now is the time to apply for it.

Now is also a good time to start taking regular exercise, if you haven’t already, in order to help prepare your body for the rigours of labour.

Mum

As you progress to the final trimester of your pregnancy, you may start to suffer some more of the common complaints including backaches.

Your nutrition is very important at this stage because bub is growing so quickly and his brain development is very intense so continue eating a well balanced diet.

As the uterus is very close to the rib cage at this time, you may experience shortness of breath.

You may notice Braxton Hicks contractions which help the uterus prepare for birth. These are a feeling of your belly tightening and relaxing at irregular intervals.

You should be reassured by your baby’s constant movement now as well.

If you work, you should probably consider advising your employer of your intentions to take parental leave.

Bub

Bub is now weighing around 800 grams (1.7 pounds) and is about 35cm (14 inches) long this week. Fat stores are starting to accumulate over his skeleton and the build up of vernix is continuing.

His eyes are starting to open and he is responding to sounds and light.

Thumb sucking strengthens the jaw and cheek muscles and he may now respond to your touch through your belly.