Your Pregnancy: Week 26

Welcome to week 26 of your incredible pregnancy - you're doing an amazing job!

At 26 weeks, your little one's development is truly remarkable. Their eyelids are opening for the first time, and they'll soon start blinking as they become accustomed to the world outside the womb. While their eyes are open, it's not until several weeks after birth that their eyes will settle into the colour they'll stay.

Now, let's talk about something truly magical – your baby's movements. By now, you're likely feeling plenty of kicks, rolls and wiggles as your baby becomes more active. These movements are not only a sign of your baby's health, but also a beautiful reminder of the incredible bond you share. Pay attention to your baby's movements and get to know their unique pattern. If you feel like movement slows down or stops, or worries you in any other way, contact your maternity unit straight away.

Pregnancy and birth can weaken the muscles of the pelvic floor and you may notice you leak pee when you cough, sneeze or strain your stomach muscles. Your pelvic floor is made up of layers of muscles inside your body that stretch like a hammock from the pubic bone (in front) to the end of the spine. Pelvic floor exercises can help strengthen the muscles so they work better.

Are you getting a bit more forgetful? If you keep losing your keys, then you could have what some people refer to as "baby brain". It's completely normal and isn't a medical condition, or scientifically proven, it's just something that some pregnant women report. It could be caused by tiredness and having a lot on your mind. Be patient with yourself!

⬅️ YOUR PREGNANCY: WEEK 27

➡️ YOUR PREGNANCY: WEEK 25

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