26 weeks...

Here is a little update: Baby Abelson is a little less than 2 pounds now and measures about 14 inches in total length. Her weight will more than triple between now and birth (which is around August 4th) as she rapidly puts on baby fat. She'll need that fat to help adjust to colder temperatures outside the womb. Her feet are about 2 inches (5cm) long.
The baby's eyes begin to open around this time.

She begins making breathing movements, but there is no air in the lungs yet, she is breathing in fluid. Hands are active and muscle coordination is such that they can get a thumb into the mouth. Thumb sucking calms the baby and strengthens the cheek and jaw muscles.

The fetal brain scan will show response to touch. Touching and playing with the baby is possible now, as they may respond to your touch through your belly wall. Brain growth continues with brain wave activity for the visual and auditory systems starting to develop. Baby is probably very active in the womb, as the most active weeks are typically between weeks 24 and 28, when there is some room left!

I have been experiencing what are called "Braxton hicks" or painless "practice" contractions which help the uterus strengthen for the real thing!

Stay in touch, be well
Alissa and Stephen