26 weeks pregnant
Second trimester about 5 months
At 26 weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of a head of lettuce.
Baby this week
About 35cm. The baby's eyes are opening for the first time and can sense light. Brain activity is measurable and the baby is developing a sleep cycle of about 20 minutes.
Did you know? The baby opens its eyes for the first time around week 26, though the womb is dark. Research shows fetuses respond to bright light by turning away — showing early visual awareness.
What she may be feeling
- Strong fetal movement
- Growing belly
- Back pain
- Heartburn
- Braxton Hicks
- Swelling
- Fatigue increasing
- Shortness of breath
Tips for her this week
- The end of the second trimester is near — energy may start dipping again soon.
- Continue daily kick counts — you know your baby's pattern now.
- Start sleeping on your left side if you haven't been — it optimizes blood flow.
- The baby's eyes are open this week — shining a light on your belly sometimes gets a response.
For partners
- One week left of the second trimester — the third trimester and final stretch is coming.
- She may be getting more uncomfortable — step up your support and take on more.
- The hospital bag conversation should happen this week — start a shared list.
- Begin looking into newborn photographer if you want one — they book up months in advance.
Partner to-do list
- Start the hospital bag packing list together
- Book a newborn photographer if desired
- Research what the third trimester involves physically and emotionally
- Plan for her increasing discomfort — more back rubs, fewer demands
This week together
- Start hospital bag list
- Book newborn photographer if desired
- Discuss and plan postpartum visitor schedule
- Finalize birth plan and share with care provider
When to call your doctor or midwife
Contact your care provider right away, or call emergency services, if she has:
- Decreased fetal movement
- Signs of preeclampsia: severe headache, vision changes, sudden swelling
- Regular contractions
- Heavy bleeding
Trusted guidance: NHS: Pregnancy · NHS: Pregnancy complications · ACOG: Pregnancy · Pregnancy Info: Your pregnancy
Common questions
How big is the baby at 26 weeks?
At 26 weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of a head of lettuce. About 35cm.
How many months is 26 weeks pregnant?
26 weeks pregnant is about 5 months, in the second trimester.
What can partners do at 26 weeks?
One week left of the second trimester — the third trimester and final stretch is coming. She may be getting more uncomfortable — step up your support and take on more.