26 Weeks Pregnant: What to Expect This Week
Twenty-six weeks pregnant and baby is opening their eyes for the first time. Those eyes can now see light filtering through the uterine wall — your bump is glowing literally and figuratively.
Baby at Week 26: Size of a head of lettuce
Baby's Development at 26 Weeks
Baby's eyes are opening for the first time. The irises have begun to develop colour, though this may change in the months after birth. Brain wave activity in response to sound and light has been detected in studies at this stage. The lungs continue to mature, and surfactant production is increasing. Baby is gaining about 6 grams of fat per day now. The immune system is starting to develop with the help of antibodies transferred through the placenta.
Your Body at 26 Weeks Pregnant
Third trimester is just around the corner — and with it, many people notice increasing fatigue. The uterus is now well above the navel. Braxton Hicks contractions are more noticeable and more frequent. Colostrum (the first form of breast milk) may begin to leak from the nipples — this is completely normal and can start as early as the second trimester. Rib pain develops for some as baby grows larger.
Tips for Week 26
- Start packing your hospital bag — many recommend doing this by week 32, but earlier is fine.
- Colostrum leaking: breast pads worn inside the bra keep things comfortable.
- For rib pain, try sitting in a more upright posture and doing gentle side stretches.
- Consider cord blood banking if interested — research and registration before birth is important.
Try it free →
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the third trimester start?
The third trimester officially begins at week 28. Weeks 1–13 are the first trimester, weeks 14–27 are the second, and weeks 28–40+ are the third. Some definitions vary slightly (putting the third trimester start at week 27 or 29) but 28 weeks is the most widely used threshold.
What is colostrum and why am I leaking it?
Colostrum is the concentrated, golden first milk produced by the breasts, packed with antibodies and nutrients. The breasts can begin producing it from as early as 16 weeks, and leaking is perfectly normal from the second trimester. It's a sign your body is preparing to feed your baby.
Capture your second-trimester bump
Hello, baby's weekly bump photos build into a beautiful record of your journey — from the first tiny bump to the last.
Start for free →