Twenty Six Weeks Pregnant
As the second trimester winds down, you can say good-bye to the easier aspects of pregnancy and welcome back the fatigue, along with various aches and pains. The third trimester is an exciting milestone, but with it come many challenges. Ready?
By this point in pregnancy, most women have gained approximately 20 to 25 pounds, although all women are different. Some of this weight-gain is due to water retention, which will fluctuate on a daily basis. Your body is changing more now than at any other time in pregnancy, so be aware of any concerning or irregular symptoms, such as excess swelling, dizziness, pain, etc. You will likely experience more frequent Braxton Hicks contractions and other aches, especially around the ribs, pelvis, and feet.
The expansion of your uterus may be causing many of these aches and pains (and of course, baby's kicking feet); however, many of your body's discomforts come from hormonal changes. It is around this time in pregnancy that your body begins to slow down its production of progesterone, which will allow your digestion to slow and baby to receive more nutrients. It's important to remember that everything you consume affects your baby, so be mindful of your diet, environment, and other choices. When your digestive system slows down, it can cause indigestion, heart burn, and constipation. Drink plenty of water, move frequently, and mind your diet.