Are you burping a lot lately?
This is a completely normal symptom at this stage of pregnancy. Indigestion, bloating, and heartburn are common. These issues are mainly due to the growing baby putting pressure on your stomach, along with increased progesterone levels that slow digestion.
To manage indigestion and bloating:
- Avoid spicy, fatty, and rich foods
- Eat smaller meals more frequently
- Avoid alcohol and cigarettes
- Stop caffeine (tea, coffee, energy drinks)
- Sit up straight while eating
You may also be feeling constipated, which is partly due to hormonal changes and partly due to pressure from your uterus.
By now, your weight gain should be around 7.25 to 10 kg since the beginning of pregnancy.
The top of your uterus can be felt about 2.5 inches (6.3 cm) above your belly button. You can expect to grow about 0.5 inch (1.25 cm) each week for the rest of your pregnancy.
Mental Health
Depression during pregnancy is surprisingly common and it can even affect your partner. In some cases, symptoms may disappear shortly after birth, while in others, they can persist for several months postpartum.
If left unaddressed, depression can worsen to the point where the mother may consider harming herself or her baby. That’s why it’s so important not to ignore the warning signs.
Common symptoms of prenatal depression may include:
- Persistent sadness or crying
- Irritability or anger
- Trouble sleeping
- Loss of appetite
- Negative or hopeless thoughts
If you experience any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to speak with your doctor. Early intervention makes a significant difference for both your baby and you.
Tips for week 26
Comfortable Clothing
Now is a good time to consider buying new bras again. Many pregnant women start wearing nursing bras during the third trimester. Even if you’re not breastfeeding yet, these bras are flexible and comfortable.
If you’re buying a nursing bra now, make sure there’s enough room for growth. Your breasts may grow by one additional cup size before birth, and possibly another cup size once milk production begins.
Safe Food Choices
A balanced and healthy diet should be your top priority in the coming stageو not only to strengthen your body and help you move forward without side effects, but also to provide your baby with the essential nutrients they need.
Here are some foods you can include in your meals:
- Fish
Eat 225-340 grams (2–3 servings) of fish low in mercury each week. Good choices include:
- Salmon
- tilapia
- Shrimp
- Canned light tuna
- Cod
- Catfish
Avoid: Tilefish (Gulf of Mexico), swordfish, king mackerel, and shark due to high mercury levels.
- Meat and Poultry
Ensure meats are fully cooked. Chicken juices should run clear, and no part of the meat should be pink or red. Cook fish thoroughly, bake, broil, grill, or poach it. You can use a food thermometer for more safety.
Staying Active
Gentle exercise, especially for your legs and ankles, helps with circulation and prevents cramps. Try these foot exercises:
- Bend and stretch your foot up and down 30 times
- Rotate your foot 8 times clockwise, then 8 times counterclockwise
- Repeat with the other foot
Preparing for Your Next Prenatal Visit
Your upcoming doctor’s visit won’t be just another routine check-up. You may undergo several important medical tests, such as blood work, a glucose tolerance test to check for gestational diabetes and antibody screen (especially if you are Rh-negative).
Your doctor might also discuss your postpartum diet and recovery plan. They may recommend cord blood banking, which offers many potential benefits you might not have considered. If you’re expecting a boy, he may discuss circumcision options with you.
Additionally, your doctor may suggest increasing your intake of vitamin C in the coming weeks. You can try this homemade vitamin C-rich drink:
- Mix a handful of ice with 1 cup grapefruit juice, juice of half a lemon, ¼ cup chilled filtered water, and 1 teaspoon maple syrup.
- Shake well in a cocktail shaker and pour into a glass with 5–6 ice cubes and garnish with a lemon slice.