Pregnancy Guide for Couples: Week 26
Have you decided whether to work with an OB doctor or a Midwife yet? If not, we’ve compiled a brief pros and cons guide below to help you decide. PLUS... if you're planning an unmedicated hospital birth, we have a free training for you!
What’s Going on with Baby
At Week 26, your baby is the size of a baby doll!
A lot is going on with your baby’s lungs this week. They are producing surfactant, a substance that inflates the air sacs in their lungs. This keeps the lungs from collapsing and sticking together when they deflate. Below is more information about this interesting substance called surfactant:
Surfactant is made up of lipids (fats) and proteins.
Before surfactant comes into play, baby’s lungs are not fully developed.
As the pregnancy increases, the surfactant levels increase to protect baby’s lungs. This is especially true in the third trimester.
There is emerging research that once the level of surfactant is optimal, it signals mom's body to initiate labor. Researchers are looking into this as a potential cause of preterm labor. Interesting, huh?
What’s Going on with Mom
Now that we’re getting into the late second trimester, you may be experiencing round ligament pain and sciatica. Ouch! These pregnancy symptoms are typical, but that doesn’t mean they’re comfortable. You may also be trying to decide between a Midwife and an OB as your delivery doctor. Here are some pros and cons of using a Midwife:
Pro: Personalized Care. Midwives are known for providing personalized and holistic care, focusing on all aspects of pregnancy and childbirth, including emotional and psychological.
Pro: Low-Intervention. Midwives tend to favor fewer medical interventions and a more natural childbirth experience.
Pro: Home Birth Option. Mom can have a home birth alongside a midwife trained to handle these deliveries.
Con: Hospital Restrictions. Some hospitals may not utilize midwives, or midwives may have limited privileges.
There are more pros and cons of both Midwives and OB doctors... check out our blog on how to choose your provider.
What’s going on with Partner
Have you considered taking a babymoon with Mom before the baby is here? If you’re unsure what a babymoon is, a babymoon is a vacation with just you and Mom, typically taken in the third trimester. Think of it as a last hurrah between you and Mom before you become a family of three. Planning a babymoon is fun and exciting for both of you! Here are some babymoon planning tips:
Plan the trip before Mom gets too uncomfortable in the third trimester
Check with Mom’s OB to ensure travel is safe and okay to do
Pick a relaxing spot (beach resort, spa, etc.)
Avoid high-risk destinations
Consider purchasing travel insurance in case you need to cancel early
RESOURCE OF THE WEEK
If you want an unmedicated birth in the hospital, then you have to sign up for our completely ✨free✨ training. In this 45-minute session, we will cover how to achieve a natural birth, get your partner on board to support you, and advocate for yourself so you avoid unnecessary interventions.
