You’re pregnant – now what?

You’re pregnant – now what?

You have those two lines you’ve waited on – or maybe it took you by complete surprise. No matter where you’re at in adding a sweet bundle of joy, it is a whirlwind of emotions. Happiness swells in your heart, shortly followed by uneasiness. Overwhelming feelings of the unknown are normal, and a helpful remedy to put a few of those feelings at bay is to understand what’s to come. What do you need to know now that you’re pregnant, symptoms you may experience, and next steps?

First days after a positive pregnancy test

Congratulations! Mind racing, thoughts swirling. Fear, disbelief, joy. One of the first things you may want to do is tell your partner, best friend, or a family member. But after that, what is next? Call your doctor and explain you have a positive pregnancy test. You’ll go in to confirm pregnancy by doing a urine sample or blood work. They’ll discuss healthy diet, habits, and things to avoid. Your doctor will answer any questions you have.

Your doctor will set either another blood work lab to monitor your HCG levels or most often – schedule an 8-week appointment to do an ultrasound, listen to heartbeat, and check your baby’s growth.

Adjustments to your everyday life

Learning that you’re pregnant is an exciting time. You can’t wait to see your baby bump grow and dream of holding your beautiful baby. As you look forward to what’s to come, it is important to make any needed changes to give your baby a healthy start.

Diet changes

Avoid cold cuts, deli meats, soft cheeses, pre-stuffed meats, raw meat, meat cooked rare, raw eggs, caesar salad dressing, unpasteurized milk, and limit caffeine to 200 mg.

Begin taking a prenatal and drinking more water along with eating a well-balanced diet.

Activity changes

Avoid smoking, amusement rides, rigorous work (unless you’re used to it), wet paint, harsh chemicals, some medications, and changing cat litter.

Always talk to your doctor about any questions you have regarding the safety of items you are using or activities you’re doing.

Symptoms

Find yourself rushing to the bathroom in the morning when nausea hits? Or wake up to the smell of what would normally be a delicious aroma, only to experience a strong aversion? These are common symptoms in early pregnancy. Other symptoms that may begin in the first trimester are:

• Tender breasts
• Fatigue
• Frequent urination
• Changes in mood
• Cravings
• Dizziness
• Weakness
• Implantation bleeding
• Heartburn
• Skin changes

While these symptoms can be frustrating, remember they are normal and will subside. Give yourself grace, go easy on yourself. Self-care is essential to having a healthy pregnancy that you can enjoy. Find what makes you feel better and make it a priority to take extra care of yourself during your pregnancy.

And lastly, start thinking of ways that you'll tell your friends and family that your newest family member is on the way!