Week 26 Pregnancy

Second Trimester

Last reviewed: July 2026

26 weeks pregnant at a glance

You are in the second trimester.
Your baby is roughly the size of a spring onion.
Routine midwife check.
Every pregnancy is different, so don't worry if your experience varies slightly.

You are 26 weeks pregnant and in your second trimester. Your baby is about the size of a spring onion. This week's key development: Eyes Opening. NHS note: Routine midwife check.

This page is for general pregnancy planning and date guidance only. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Pregnancy dates are estimates and can change after a scan or advice from your midwife, GP, or maternity team. Always speak to a qualified healthcare professional if you have symptoms, concerns, or questions about your pregnancy.

Week 25

Week 27

Baby's Development

Your baby is about the size of a spring onion.

Eyes Opening — Your baby's eyelids, which have been fused shut, are beginning to open. Their eyes are now sensitive to light, and they may respond to a bright light shone on your belly. Brain wave activity for both hearing and sight is now detectable.

Spring onion

Approx. 35.6cm

Your Symptoms

Higher blood pressure
Backaches
Insomnia

Every pregnancy is different. You may experience all, some, or none of these symptoms — and that's completely normal. If anything concerns you, speak to your midwife.

NHS Appointments

Routine midwife check. They will check your fundal height and baby's position.

Practical Advice for Week 26

Nutrition

Continue vitamin D daily.
Vitamin A is important but avoid liver products which contain dangerously high levels.
Eat plenty of colourful fruits and vegetables for antioxidants.
Include oily fish for DHA — essential for your baby's developing eyesight.

Exercise

Consider prenatal yoga or aqua natal classes — both are excellent in the third trimester lead-up.
Practise good posture — your spine is under increasing pressure.
Avoid lying flat on your back — use an incline or lie on your side.
Pelvic tilts and cat-cow stretches ease back tension.

Wellbeing

Your baby's eyes are opening — they can now see light through your belly.
Insomnia may worsen — establish a calming bedtime routine.
Back pain is common — a warm (not hot) wheat bag can help.
Start thinking about your birth environment — what makes you feel safe and calm.

Preparation

Start writing your birth plan — your midwife can help you refine it.
What kind of pain relief interests you? Gas and air, water birth, epidural, or hypnobirthing?
If you want a home birth, discuss it with your midwife — it's an option for low-risk pregnancies.
Ensure your car seat is compatible with your car.

Tip of the Week

Start thinking about your birth plan. What kind of pain relief or environment would you prefer?

Frequently Asked Questions for Week 26

How many months is 26 weeks pregnant?

At 26 weeks pregnant, you are roughly 6 months pregnant. Remember that pregnancy is typically measured in weeks rather than months for clinical accuracy.

What size is the baby at 26 weeks?

At 26 weeks, your baby is roughly the size of a spring onion (about 35.6cm). Your baby's eyelids, which have been fused shut, are beginning to open. Their eyes are now sensitive to light, and they may respond to a bright light shone on your belly. Brain wave activity for both hearing and sight is now detectable.

What are the common symptoms at 26 weeks pregnant?

Common symptoms at this stage include higher blood pressure, backaches, insomnia. Remember that every pregnancy is unique, and it's normal to experience different symptoms.

Is 26 weeks in the second trimester?

Yes, 26 weeks falls within the second trimester.

Are there any NHS appointments at 26 weeks?

Routine midwife check. They will check your fundal height and baby's position.