After the little plus sign on your home pregnancy test has appeared, there are probably a million thoughts running through your head. You’ve got nine months of preparation ahead of you, but for right now, just breathe.
Finding out you’re pregnant is emotional, exciting, and stressful. With all these feelings bouncing around, it’s hard to know what to do first.
Taking care of yourself is the most important tasks right now. That’s why taking things one step at a time is crucial.
To help you out with the first stage of this journey, we’re going over what to do when you find out you’re pregnant. You’ll probably realize it’s pretty simple.
1. See Your Doctor
Your home pregnancy test is positive, but you’ll still need to confirm things by taking a test at your doctor’s office. You can do this with your general physician or OBGYN.
Along with confirming you’re pregnant, your doctor can give you an idea of how far along you are. You can then schedule your first prenatal visit with your OBGYN. They’ll want to see you between six and eight months after your last period.
Even though your first visit may not be for several weeks, let your gynecologist know if you’re experiencing morning sickness or other complications.
2. Begin Taking Prenatal Vitamins
Your body has already started going through serious changes. It’s important you get additional vitamins and nutrients by taking prenatal supplements.
This is something you’ll discuss with your doctor during your first prenatal visit. However, it’s a good idea to start taking vitamins right away.
There are plenty of over-the-counter options available to you. Check out online reviews or ask your doctor if they can recommend a specific brand.
3. Plan the Announcement
After you’ve confirmed your pregnancy and scheduled your first prenatal appointment, you may be itching to tell people the news. Hang tight, though. It’s better to keep things to yourself at first.
During the first two months of pregnancy, you’re at the highest risk of miscarriage. The last thing you want to do is have to inform people that it didn’t work out.
Instead, limit the announcement to your close family and a few friends. Let them know you’re keeping things under wraps until the end of the first trimester.
4. Go Over Your Insurance Policy
Your medical expenses are about to increase drastically. It’s important you address your current insurance policy to get a sense of what’s covered and what’s not.
During your pregnancy, you’ll need regular sonograms and blood tests. While your doctor visits are most likely covered, you may end up having to pay for a portion of these extra procedures.
It’s also a good idea to ask your insurance agent about coverage for your little one once he or she has arrived.
5. Start Looking at Maternity Clothes
You’ve got some time until you start showing, but it’s better to be prepared and begin shopping around for maternity clothes now. When the time comes, you’ll want to feel comfortable.
The great thing about modern maternity clothes is they’re stylish. Your options are endless, which makes the shopping process a lot of fun.
When browsing online or at your favorite store, keep in mind you won’t wear these clothes for too long. Avoid overspending and regretting it later.
6. Adjust Your Diet
It’s time to start thinking about everything you put in your body. While it’s fine to succumb to food cravings every once in a while, you need to maintain a consistent, healthy diet.
Make sure you eat lots of fruits and vegetables and cut down on fats and sugars. This will help reduce the chance of gestational diabetes.
You’ll also need to cut out caffeine, or at least reduce it. If you drink teas often, make sure they’re safe for the baby.
7. Create a Workout Plan
Becoming pregnant doesn’t mean you need to stop working out. In fact, exercise is great for you and your growing baby.
Light cardio and weights are both fine during pregnancy. You can also look into prenatal yoga and other stretching exercises.
If you’re extremely athletic or play sports, there’s a good chance you’ll need to adjust your routine. You don’t want to overexert yourself or engage in activities that can lead to injury. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions about the way you work out.
8. Start Educating Yourself
If this is your first child, you and your spouse have a lot to learn. It’s time to start educating yourself on the products you’ll need along with different parenting techniques.
Don’t hesitate to sign up for childbirth or parenting classes. It’s surprising how many little things you’ll need to know, from changing diapers to forming a sleep routine.
You should also decide how you plan to give birth. Do you want a traditional hospital birth or an alternative experience such as a home or water birth?
9. Find a Pregnancy App You Like
Modern couples have so many more tools than expecting parents had years ago. Take advantage of technology and download a pregnancy app.
There are a number of great apps that will help you track your pregnancy and provide useful information. You’ll be able to understand what’s happening inside the womb and read great articles about your health and well-being.
Your spouse should download the app as well so you can both track your progress together.
Now You Know What to do When You Find Out You’re Pregnant
You’ve just discovered some life-changing news. Along with the excitement comes huge responsibility.
Use these tips on what to do when you find out you’re pregnant and start making some of the most important plans of your life. You’ll probably realize quickly that these tasks are all enjoyable and fulfilling for both you and your spouse.
Check out more articles on women’s health issues and keep your well-being in mind during your pregnancy.
