Week 26 Pregnancy Symptoms 2 Pound Baby Belly Button Changes Sleep Tips

Hey mama, if you're reading this at 2 AM because sleep just isn't happening anymore, you're not alone. At 26 weeks, so much is changing and it's okay to feel overwhelmed by it all.

You're Almost There, Mama

26 weeks pregnant is how many months?

You're in month 6 now can you believe it? I know it feels like forever and no time at all, rolled into one confusing bundle. Only 3 months left to go, though I know that probably feels both exciting and terrifying right now. And that's totally normal.

Your Little One is Getting So Big

Your baby now weighs about 2 pounds and is over 14 inches long. I know, I know that might explain why you're feeling so much more movement lately and why finding a comfortable position is getting harder by the day.

Your little gymnast is starting to feel a bit more cramped in there, which means those wild somersaults might calm down just a little. But don't worry if you're still getting some serious kicks every baby is different, and yours might just be letting you know they're doing great in there.

Something Beautiful is Happening This Week

Those precious eyes are opening

This week might be when your baby's eyes open for the very first time. I know it's incredible to think about, isn't it? Those tiny eyes that have been closed for months are finally ready to see the world (or at least the cozy darkness of your womb).

Here's something kind of magical you can try: shine a flashlight gently on your belly. Don't be surprised if you get a little kick in response like baby is saying "Hey, what's that light?" It's one of those sweet moments that reminds you there's a real little person growing inside you.

And mama, don't stress about trying to guess eye color yet. Even after baby is born, those beautiful eyes might change color for up to a year. Just another reminder that some things are worth waiting for.

Baby's brain is getting amazing

Your little one's brain is developing in the most incredible ways right now. They can actually hear you and respond to sounds with movement or changes in heart rate.

So if you've been talking to your belly or playing music, keep it up. If you haven't started yet and feel a little silly about it that's okay too. There's no "right" way to do this pregnancy thing.

What You Might Be Feeling Right Now

That belly button situation

Okay, let's talk about what might be happening with your belly button because if it's starting to pop out, you might be feeling a little self-conscious about it.

That little "outie" situation? Completely normal. Your growing uterus is pushing everything forward, and your belly button is just along for the ride. It'll go back to normal after baby comes, though it might look a little different and that's okay too. You're growing a human, after all.

If you have a belly piercing that's getting uncomfortable, it's totally fine to take it out. Your body is changing, and it's important to listen to what feels right.

Sleep? What's that?

If you're lying awake at night feeling frustrated because sleep seems impossible, I see you. Between the heartburn, the bathroom trips, the leg cramps, and just trying to find a comfortable position with your growing belly it's a lot.

You're not doing anything wrong if sleep is hard right now. Here are some gentle things that might help:

Try to get some fresh air and light movement during the day

Cut back on fluids after dinner (but make sure you're drinking enough earlier in the day)

It's okay to use extra pillows to prop yourself up

And if none of that works tonight? That's okay too. Rest when you can, even if it's not perfect sleep.

When baby's movements feel intense

Feeling like you're carrying a little martial artist in there? Those kicks and stretches are getting stronger, and sometimes they might actually hurt. If baby gets a foot stuck up in your ribs (fun times, right?), try gently changing positions or doing some stretches.

You can even try gently pressing back when baby pushes sometimes that helps them shift to a more comfortable spot for both of you.

And mama, if you're worried about the movements whether there are too many, too few, or they feel different trust your instincts. You know your body and your baby better than anyone else.

Taking Care of Yourself This Week

Those late night bathroom trips

If you're getting up multiple times a night, try drinking less after dinner but don't skip staying hydrated during the day. Your body needs that water, especially now.

Your changing body needs support

Your back might be aching more as your belly grows. Instead of throwing your shoulders back and pushing your hips forward (which feels natural but can make pain worse), try to keep a straight line from your shoulders to your hips.

A belly support band might help too don't feel like you have to tough it out if you're uncomfortable.

When your skin feels unpredictable

Pregnancy hormones can make your skin do all sorts of unexpected things super oily, super dry, breakouts, weird patches. It's frustrating, I know.

Be gentle with your skin right now. Wash your face with something mild, moisturize if you need to, and try not to stress too much about it. Like so many pregnancy symptoms, this too shall pass.

Moving your body (if you can)

If you feel up to it and your doctor says it's okay, gentle movement can actually feel really good. Walking, swimming, prenatal yoga whatever feels right for your body.

And here's something kind of cool: your baby might respond to your movement. Some babies get lulled to sleep by mom's activity, while others seem to wake up and start their own little workout. Every baby is different, just like every pregnancy.

You're Doing Great, Mama

I know 26 weeks can feel overwhelming you're getting closer to the end, but there's still so much ahead. Your body is changing every day, sleep might be elusive, and sometimes you might feel like you're "going crazy" trying to figure out what's normal.

Here's the truth: you're doing an incredible job. Growing a baby is hard work, and it's okay to feel all the feelings about it the excitement, the worry, the discomfort, all of it.

Trust your body. Trust your instincts. And remember, you don't have to have it all figured out right now.

Find your calm, mama. You've got this.