You are 26 Weeks Pregnant!

WHAT’S HAPPENING WITH YOU

As your belly gets bigger and your baby’s movements increase, you are probably beginning to think more and more of your upcoming birth. And you may find that birth plans you were comfortable with early in your pregnancy no longer work for you. Many women begin to seriously rethink their plans for birth around this time. Remember, hardly any decisions you have made are set in stone. Many women have changed care providers — even during the final weeks of their pregnancy. It is important to make decisions that are best for you and your family.

WHAT’S HAPPENING WITH YOUR BABY

Your baby may be very active between weeks 24 to 28, when small size and ample amniotic fluid allow for freedom of movement. You may feel your baby jump in response to loud sounds or “settle” at the sound of your voice. Studies indicate that your baby can respond to touch. Your baby is around 14 inches from head to toe, and weighs 1 pound, 12 ounces to 2 pounds 3 ounces.

EATING FOR TWO

This recipe was submitted by ParentsPlace.com community member, Tami. Potatoes have more vitamin C, calcium, iron, thiamine and riboflavin then an apple.

Whipped Potato Bake

8 to 10 medium potatoes (peeled)
8 ounce package lowfat or fat free cream cheese (softened)
8 ounce container lowfat sour cream
1/4 to 1/2 cup butter, melted
1/4 cup chives, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
2 teaspoons salt (or to taste)
Sprinkle of paprika

Boil potatoes 30 minutes or until tender. Add cooked potatoes to remaining ingredients, except paprika. Beat until smooth and combined. Spoon mixture into a 2-quart casserole that has been lightly sprayed with Pam vegetable oil spray. Sprinkle paprika on top. Cover and refrigerate overnight. Remove from refrigerator 15 minutes before baking. Uncover and bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Eight servings.

FACT OF THE WEEK

Once your baby arrives, it may be a while until you get away on a vacation. Air travel may also be out of the question in just a few short weeks. Many practitioners do not recommend air travel after the seventh month because there is a chance you could go into labor away from your home and a convenient neonatal intensive care unit. To be on the safe side, check with your practitioner before planning air travel in your last trimester.

Tips for a safe, comfortable flight:

  • Eat small, but frequent meals that are low in fat. Pregnancy can exacerbate motion sickness.
  • Go to the bathroom before boarding — just in case you are required to stay in your seat.
  • Fasten your seat belt below your belly.
  • Drink lots of fluids. Air travel can cause dehydration which may cause contractions.