Pregnancy Update: 26 Weeks
I am 26 weeks pregnant as I write this blog post. Yay—I’ve hit yet another major milestone! My next milestone will be 28 weeks.
A baby born at 26 weeks has a much higher chance of survival. If premature rupture of membranes were to occur during the 26th week of pregnancy, the baby would have a better chance because the lungs are more developed. In some cases, doctors may prescribe hospital bedrest to monitor for infection, but labor wouldn’t necessarily be forced.
The ultimate goal is to keep your baby nestled safely inside the womb. Every single day a baby remains in the womb can knock off about three days in the NICU. Thankfully, my pregnancy has been going smoothly. I don’t foresee any major issues later on besides the normal increase in Braxton Hicks and occasional contractions as I get closer to the end.
I’m in Atlanta Now
I recently traveled to Atlanta on November 30th. My flight was super early, but everything went smoothly—no delays or issues. I hired a driver because I needed to leave my house by 5 a.m., and I was traveling with two large suitcases, one small roller bag, my purse, and my dog. I definitely needed the extra help.
Although I miss my hubby so much, it feels really good to be back home. Because of football season, we’re rarely able to spend holidays with family. Players might get a day off, but they still have to work—and sometimes even play—on Thanksgiving and Christmas.
New Atlanta OB
I had my first official appointment with my new OB, Dr. Jose Garcia, and it went really well. We discussed my pregnancy history, my current pregnancy, and my future plans with the practice. I feel very comfortable with Dr. Garcia because he is attentive to my care and genuinely listens to my concerns, especially given my history.
I really appreciate doctors who are willing to tailor care when extra attention is needed. I can’t stand when OBs think they know everything and refuse to adjust standard care for high-risk patients.
At this appointment, I also received my TDAP shot. Dr. Garcia explained that it was better to receive it now rather than waiting until 28 weeks, since I won’t be delivering at 40 weeks. It takes about 11–12 weeks for immunity to fully transfer to the baby, so getting the shot around 25–26 weeks makes the most sense since I’ll be delivering between 36 and 37 weeks.
I’ll be seeing my OB again in two weeks.
My fundal height was measuring 29 weeks—yikes! My belly has definitely grown. At my 25-week appointment, my fundal height was measuring 28 weeks, so baby is clearly growing.
High-Risk Appointment Coming Up
I also have an appointment with my new high-risk doctor on Monday. They’ll be checking my cervix and possibly measuring the baby again. After that appointment, we’ll determine whether I’ll need any additional cervical checks going forward. I likely won’t, but my new OB prefers to be extra cautious to anticipate and prevent any issues that could alter my care later in pregnancy.
I cannot wait to see our baby again next week. I always look forward to ultrasounds—they’re so much better than just listening to the heartbeat on the Doppler.
I officially have 98 days until we meet our baby…
Well, technically closer to 77 days, which sounds even better.
With love,
Morgan Goodwin
