Week 26: Eyes Open
The baby can see — and the third trimester is days away
The baby's eyes open for the first time around week 26. It can perceive light and dark through the uterine wall. You're also on the doorstep of the third trimester, which starts next week. Use this final week of the second trimester to tie up loose ends on planning and purchases.
What's happening this week
The baby's eyes open and can detect light. Brain wave activity for visual and auditory systems is detectable. The immune system is absorbing antibodies from the mother. The baby weighs about 1.7 pounds and is around 14 inches long. She may notice more back pain and fatigue as the third trimester approaches.
Your checklist
0 of 4 completeIf you've been doing meet-and-greets, it's time to decide. Call the practice to officially register as an upcoming patient. Confirm they'll be available for the newborn hospital exam.
Most hospitals allow pre-registration for delivery. This saves time on the day of — you'll fill out insurance info, emergency contacts, and medical history now instead of during contractions.
Most hospitals offer tours of the labor and delivery unit and postpartum rooms. Knowing the layout, parking situation, and check-in process in advance reduces anxiety on delivery day. Book a tour this week if available.
You don't need to pack yet, but start a list. You'll finalize and pack it in the mid-30s. Key categories: her comfort items, baby's first outfit, your overnight bag, documents and insurance cards, and snacks.
Recommended products
Eufy SpaceView Baby Monitor
A dedicated video baby monitor with a 5-inch display, night vision, and wide-angle lens. No WiFi required, so no hacking risk. Long battery life and excellent range. Consistently rated one of the best non-WiFi monitors available.
Pre-registering at the delivery hospital is one of the most underrated preparation steps in pregnancy. Available at most hospitals starting in the second or third trimester, pre-registration allows you to submit insurance information, medical history, emergency contacts, and birth plan preferences in advance. On delivery day, instead of filling out paperwork during active labor, you check in with a name and date of birth and go straight to your room.
Hospital tours are equally valuable. Walking the labor and delivery floor, seeing a postpartum room, and understanding the check-in process demystifies the experience. Ask about visitor policies, dad sleeping arrangements, lactation consultant availability, and how long the typical postpartum stay is (24–48 hours for vaginal delivery, 72–96 hours for C-section).
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