Although you are yet to meet your baby, they are slowly taking over your life and you may notice weekly and even daily changes in your body. Some days you’ll feel better than others, and it’s important that you take each day as it comes. Both by taking advantage of your good days, and being gentle on yourself on the bad ones.

How your body may feel during this time

Tiredness, an achy body, a sore mouth and stretch marks are all part of your pregnancy journey. Your belly and breasts are also growing, so make sure that you accommodate your body and dress in clothes that are both supportive and comfy.

Your baby’s growth at week 26

Your little one’s lungs are now working hard, getting ready for the day that she’ll need to start using them. At this time the lungs start to produce surfactant, which’ll make it possible for your baby to breathe at birth.

Your baby’s suck reflex is  growing stronger (they may even suck their thumb!), and their eyes may open for the first time around now and they’ll start to practice blinking. Not only this, but your little one also has eyelashes that are starting to grow.

Now that your baby can hear you, you can also spend some time talking to them. Research has shown that babies prefer the sound of their mothers voices and you may even notice that they start responding to the sound of your voice, and by late pregnancy they should be able to distinguish between voices.

What you should keep in mind at this time

Something to keep aware of during your pregnancy is the possibility for gestational diabetes. Gestational diabetes is high blood sugar levels during pregnancy, and it’ll go away after birth. However, moms who develop gestational diabetes are at higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes after birth. Warning signs are unusual thirst, frequent urination and dizziness, if you feel like you are checking these boxes then it’s important to speak to your doctor about treatment. If treated effectively, there is no reason you shouldn’t have a healthy pregnancy.