Your baby practices blinking

What to expect

Your baby’s practicing blinking this week, with eyes that might react to bright light shining through your belly. They’re also breathing amniotic fluid (those cute hiccups you feel? That’s part of lung training).

• Their sleep-wake cycles are forming. You’ll notice active times (often when you’re still) and quiet stretches (maybe when you’re busy). Late-night dance parties are typical.
• Taste buds are developed enough to pick up flavors from your meals through the amniotic fluid. Spicy curry for dinner? Your baby gets a diluted version.

Your uterus is now about the size of a basketball, which explains why bending over feels like an olympic event. The top of it sits around 2.5 inches above your belly button now, try pressing gently there to feel the curve.

The kick count trick

Many providers suggest tracking movement around now. Pick a time when your baby’s usually active (often after meals). Note how long it takes to feel 10 distinct motions (kicks, rolls, jabs). If it’s taking much longer than usual, or movements weaken suddenly, call for advice.

Things to be aware of

Braxton Hicks contractions might start becoming noticeable now. These practice tightenings can feel like a sudden, painless squeezing across your belly, then fade. They’re normal (your uterus is rehearsing for labor), but worth mentioning to your provider if they’re frequent or rhythmic.

• An itchy belly. Stretching skin plus hormones can leave you scratching. Lotion helps, but call if itching is extreme (especially on palms/soles), it could signal a liver condition needing attention.
• Leg cramps. Waking up to a charley horse? Hydration and gentle stretches before bed can help. Point your toes upward (not down) during a cramp to shorten it.
• Round ligament pain. Those bands supporting your uterus are working overtime. Sudden movements might trigger a sharp jab (try rolling onto your side before sitting up).

Pelvic pressure is common now, like your baby is weighing down low. But if it’s paired with regular contractions, fluid leaks, or bleeding, call your provider promptly, better safe.

What might happen

The glucose challenge test usually lands between now and week 28. You’ll drink a sugary solution, then have blood drawn an hour later to check for gestational diabetes. Some offices let you skip the fasting part, so ask ahead.

• Rh-negative? If your blood type is negative and the baby’s parent is positive, you might get a RhoGAM shot around now to prevent antibody issues.
• Work plans. If you’re employed, this is a good window to review maternity leave policies (the details often take surprise meetings to unravel).

Your provider may start measuring your belly at appointments from now on. The tape measure (fundal height) helps track if your baby’s growing on schedule, though ultrasounds are more precise if there’s concern.