By the onset of the 26th week of pregnancy, the weight of the fetus is about 850 g, and the height is 33-35 cm. The active development of various organs and systems of the baby continues. The expectant mother needs to constantly monitor her health and pay special attention to blood pressure and joint health.
Feelings of a future mother
The second trimester of pregnancy is coming to an end, which is considered the quietest period of waiting for the child. The movements of the child are felt more and more. This is because the fetus has grown noticeably, and it is quite cramped in the uterus. Because of this, tremors can be felt both in the abdomen and under the ribs. The body weight continues to increase, the abdomen and waist grow, and also the hips are added in volume. Breasts have noticeably grown, adding 1-2 sizes. In total, from the beginning of pregnancy, the body can already gain 9 kg.
Along with weight gain, shortness of breath and swelling of the limbs appear. You already need to get used to these feelings, try to lead a moderately active lifestyle, periodically rest from work. Due to the grown belly, it becomes difficult to bend over, and putting on and taking off shoes is especially difficult. In this regard, it is worth switching to shoes with a minimum of fasteners or without them at all.
The formation of a mucous plug is observed in the cervix, which closes the entrance to the uterine cavity, protecting it from infections. This process takes place unnoticed by a woman. Periodic vaginal discharge is still observed. It is important that they remain clear and odor-free.
Possible complications
The negative effects in late pregnancy are as follows:
- toxicosis;
- kidney disease;
- preeclampsia and eclampsia.
Such ailments are usually detected during the next examination of a pregnant woman. In order to prevent the development of deviations in time, you should accustom yourself to write down all your feelings from a special notebook. In this case, it is important to regularly measure the pressure and also note the results obtained. Closer to the beginning of the third trimester, it may periodically increase. A constant deviation of pressure from the norm can cause serious complications.
Those who often work at a computer or do other work with their hands need to monitor the condition of the ligaments and joints. Carpal tunnel syndrome becomes a frequent occurrence in the later stages due to persistent swelling of the hands. The fluid stagnant in the connective tissues compresses the nerve fibers, causing pain in the hands. You should take breaks from work more often, shake your hands and knead them in every possible way.
Sometimes bile stagnation is observed in pregnant women, which slows down digestion, prolonged constipation begins, and pain in the upper abdomen and under the ribs on the right may appear. If the problem is not resolved in time, stones begin to form in the gallbladder. The exact diagnosis and therapeutic methods are determined by the doctor.
Fetal development
The activity of the baby at the 26th week increases markedly. He is already trying to open his eyes, since the well-developed muscles of the eyelids allow him to do this. The child often blinks and squints, which is very useful after birth, when he will need to get used to the bright light. The auditory organs also develop, so the baby picks up the surrounding sound vibrations. This week, the ears, eardrums, auditory ossicles and ligaments have fully formed.
The cerebral and motor activity of the fetus is gradually synchronized. Periodically, he begins to consciously, and not reflexively respond to various stimuli. For example, a toddler may not like loud music or conversations, which may cause him to push and move his legs and arms. What else happens in a small organism:
- the bones of the skeleton continue to strengthen and subcutaneous fat cells appear;
- the rudiments of the teeth are finally mineralized along the gums;
- neural connections develop;
- hair and nails grow;
- a primary hormonal background is formed;
- the reproductive system begins to form.
The fetus is located in the amniotic fluid, the total volume of which is about 0.7 liters. The weight of the placenta reaches 300 g. The rhythm of a tiny heart is 120-160 beats per minute, and you can already feel it if you press against your mother's belly. The fetus can be located at the current date as you like, so you should not worry about this. However, the doctor's recommendations must be strictly followed: premature birth will now be deadly for the baby.
Observations and recommendations
At the moment, it is enough to adhere to the already formed calendar of visits to the women's office. Ultrasound and other examinations are prescribed for special indications if the doctor suspects a woman's disease. Additionally, directions are issued for the delivery of a general analysis of urine and blood.
It is important to follow special tips so that the child grows up strong and healthy, without giving mom any unpleasant sensations:
- Eat a healthy diet and stick to nutritional guidelines. Eat small meals to help your body absorb food better.
- Drink plenty of fluids so you don't feel thirsty.
- If age spots appear on your face, be patient and do not use cosmetics that are now harmful to the skin.
- Fight stretch marks by gently massaging your chest, abdomen, thighs, and buttocks.
- Start preparing for maternity leave by talking with employers about delegating authority to a trusted person.
- If varicose veins appear on your legs, it is worth discussing the use of compression socks or tights with your doctor.
- To combat swelling on the legs, they can be regularly doused with water of contrasting temperatures. It is best to use a small pillow between your knees when you sleep.
- Sleep on your right side or on your back, avoiding excessive pressure on your abdomen.
Now it is very important to listen to any unusual sensations in the body and body. For example, some pregnant women experience limb cramps due to a lack of potassium and calcium. It is worth discussing the best diet option with your doctor. Also, training fights may already begin, occurring no more than 4-5 times a day. If their frequency increases, see a doctor immediately. It is very important not to forget about daily walks and, if possible, about sports for pregnant women. The lifestyle in general should become unhurried and measured, so it is better to plan any business in advance. Avoid stress and anxiety. If necessary, ask loved ones to support you during this extremely crucial period.
