Pregnancy Week By Week (Week 26)

Week 26 Fetus

Must-ask Questions this Week (Week 26)

How common is prenatal depression?

It is more common than you think. According to a recent research, its frequency is higher than postpartum depression although postpartum is hyped up. One in every five pregnant women felt depressed but many don't come forward for the fear of the medications they may have to take. Thinking these antidepressants are unsafe, many wish to avoid consulting their doctor and secretly hoping the problem will go away. Contrary to these beliefs, antidepressants are safe and pose little if any risk to the unborn child. So if you suffer symptoms like loss of appetite, extreme fatigue, lack of interest in normal activities, sleeplessness, restlessness, feelings of inadequacy, contact your doctor. Besides you may be able to opt for psychotherapy instead of medications if you that is your preference. Treatment is important not only for you but for your baby's sake as well.

Prenatal depression has been linked to low birth-weight, premature births, stress related changes to the fetal heart rate. It has also been found that women who went through prenatal depression are more likely to suffer postpartum depression.

Baby on the way?

Some Basic Pointers (Week 26)

When working at a Computer..

Many women have reservations about working at a computer terminal and since many jobs require that, the concern is common. Your sitting position and the time spent in front of the screen matters. A chair with good back support for your back and legs is important. Do not slouch or cross your legs while sitting. To relieve back strain, rest your feet on a low stool, box or a stack of phone directories. Walk around every few minutes to provide circulation in your legs.

Planning a Successful labor and delivery

It is never too early to start planning for a successful labor and delivery. There are some suggestions you may wish to consider. Read and learn as much as you can about your pregnancy and the birth process from books, journals and other resources. Knowledge is empowering; when you know what to expect mentally you re more prepared to deal with the real thing. Read up on pregnancy concerns, problems to gain a better understanding. Discuss your concerns and experiences with your doctor at the prenatal appointments and share issues with your partner without hesitations. Maintain good relationship with your caregiver; be a good patient by following medical suggestions, watching your weight, eating sensibly, taking your supplements and not skipping any prenatal appointments and tests. Taking an active interest in your medical care including pain relief methods, birthing positions, your partners support level during delivery all helps you feel in control during labor. Keep yourself informed about everything that is related to you to ensure a more confident you.



Retin-A

Retin-A (tretinoin) is a cream to treat acne and to smooth out face wrinkles. You should stop or discontinue its use immediately during pregnancy. There isn't enough data or evidence suggesting its disuse during pregnancy but better to play it safe. Any medications when taken internally, inhaled, injected or applied on the skin surface does enter into your bloodstream. Some medications taken by the mother does become concentrated in the baby's body. The built up of foreign substances in baby may have serious repercussions later on in baby's development. Since there isn't much details on the side effects, it is best to avoid using Retin-A altogether for the time being. Literally speaking chuck your vanity aside for the sake of your baby. The same goes with steroid creams. You may want to consult your doctor before using any steroid based cream of lotion for those skin blemishes.

Your Nutrition (Week 26)

Eating fish is healthy and especially good during pregnancy. Women who consume a variety of fish end up having full term babies and babies with higher birth weights. This is important because the longer baby remains in the womb, the stronger and healthier it will be during delivery. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish is responsible for preventing premature births; it triggers a hormone which helps prevent pregnancy induced hypertension and preeclampsia as well. Fish is the right choice of protein because it is safe, low in fat and high in Vitamin B, iron, zinc, selenium and copper. Eating most varieties on a frequent basis should be no problem.


Good Fish options

Bass salmon

Catfish sole

Cod red snapper

Herring halibut

Mackerel

Good Shellfish options

Clams oysters

Crab shrimp

Lobster scallops

Anything in excess is not good. Do not exceed a total of 12 oz of fish in any given week.

Some of the fish that is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids include mackerel, sardines, salmon, herring, anchovies and trout. If you are a vegetarian or simply dislike fish, add canola oil, flaxseed, soybeans, walnuts and wheat germ to your diet plan because of the linolenic oil content, a type of omega-3 fatty acid found in them. Some research indicates eating fatty fish or fish oil capsules may also enhance your baby's intellect. Since fish oil is important for fetal brain development. While it is good to include omega-3 in your food plan, do not exceed 2.4g of omega 3 per day. Not all fish are safe for eating. Some fish are contaminated with dangerous substances derived from man-made pollutants called methyl mercury.

Methyl mercury can pass from mother to baby giving rise to neurological problems. Babies are specially vulnerable because of the rapid brain development that takes place inside the utero. Pregnant women and those trying to conceive should be cautioned from taking certain types of fish more than once a month. These include shark, swordfish and tuna (fresh or frozen) nursing mothers should limit those fish to once a week. Canned tuna is safer but don't exceed more than 6 oz per week. Avoid all raw fish during pregnancy including sushi. If you are not sure about what to avoid, seek expert advice that you trust.