Week 26: Eye Development
The twenty‑sixth week is a time of active eye and vision development for your baby.
Baby size: Broccoli (100‑105 mm)
Baby development
Little Observer with Developed Hearing
Your baby actively uses its new skills to explore the surrounding world. Its brain is developing, processing more and more information.
What’s happening this week:
- Eyes: The eyelids open, and the baby learns to blink. The retina continues to form.
- Hearing: It distinguishes your voice and your partner’s voice well. Constant communication with it is now very important.
- Breathing movements: It continues to practice breathing, inhaling and exhaling amniotic fluid.
- Immune system: It begins receiving antibodies from your blood, which will help protect it from infections after birth.
Your fetus weighs about 760 grams, and its length is over 35 centimeters.
Changes for mom
Rib Pain and Increased Blood Pressure
As the uterus grows, it begins to press not only on internal organs but also on the ribs, which can cause discomfort. At this stage it’s also important to monitor blood pressure.
What you may notice:
- Rib pain: This may be a result of uterine pressure or active baby kicks.
- Elevated blood pressure: After a drop in the first trimester, the pressure may now start returning to normal or even rise slightly. It’s important to monitor it regularly.
- Heartburn: May remain a constant companion.
- Practice contractions: They may become more frequent, but they are still irregular and painless.
It’s important to be aware of the risks associated with pressure. Learn more about possible complications in the article "Complications and Risks During Pregnancy".
Overview
Week 26: Baby Opens Its Eyes!
The twenty‑sixth week brings wonderful news: your baby is beginning to open its eyes! Until now its eyelids have been tightly closed, and now it can see light and shadows inside the womb.
It is now the size of a large zucchini. Its sensory organs continue to mature. It responds to sounds, touches, and now—to light. If you shine a flashlight on the belly, it may turn away or, conversely, turn toward the light source.
For you, this is a week when the belly becomes even larger and the strain on your body increases. You may feel more fatigued, so it’s important to listen to your body and give it enough rest.
The ability to see is another giant step in your baby’s development. Its world becomes brighter and more interesting, and it is actively preparing to meet you.
You are approaching the end of the second trimester. To refresh the events of this period, review our detailed guide "Second Trimester: What You Need to Know".
Tips for mom
Comfort, Safety, and Birth Preparation
Now your main tasks are to create comfortable conditions for yourself and continue preparing for the most important day.
What to do:
- Change your body position. If you feel rib pain, try doing stretching exercises or simply change your posture.
- Measure your blood pressure regularly. Especially if you are prone to hypertension.
- Continue attending parent courses. Practice the breathing and relaxation techniques you are taught.
- Make a final checklist of items for the delivery room. This will help avoid panic at the last minute.
Preparing for the baby’s birth is not only a physical but also a psychological process. The article "Psychological Readiness for Pregnancy" will help you get into a positive mindset.
Tips for partner
Main Helper and Preparation Manager
Your role in birth preparation and creating comfort for your partner is now key.
Your contribution to the joint effort:
- Help her relieve discomfort. Give a back massage, help her find a comfortable resting position.
- Practice breathing techniques together. Your participation in parent courses should not be passive. Train together.
- Take on part of the shopping. Help her pack the delivery bag and buy necessary items.
- Plan logistics. Discuss the route to the birthing center, prepare the car, and pack a “emergency suitcase” for yourself.
Knowledge of the stages of labor will help you be an effective support. Review the material in the article "Stages of Labor".
Checklist
Your Action Plan for Week 26
Approaching the final trimester.
- ✅ Monitor blood pressure regularly.
- 🧘♀️ Practice breathing and relaxation techniques learned in the courses.
- 👜 Make a detailed checklist of items for the delivery room for mom, baby, and partner.
- 👶 Select and purchase the first sets of newborn clothing.
- 🚗 Discuss and plan the logistics of the trip to the birthing center.
- 📚 Get inspired for preparation by reviewing the article "Packing the Delivery Bag".