I’m Pregnant: Now What?

Discovering you're pregnant often brings with it a wave of conflicting emotions. The way everyone responds to a positive pregnancy test is highly individual. Amid your emotions, it can be challenging to concentrate and focus on what to do. Here are the most important things to do in the first few weeks of your new pregnancy.

1. Take a pregnancy test

Even if you've already done one pregnancy test, a second one using a different brand is always a good idea. If you haven’t done a pregnancy test at all yet, consider doing it when your partner is home if you have one. That way you can process the news together.

2. Keep your news quiet for now

Try to enjoy the very early weeks of your pregnancy with just yourself or your partner. It's such a special time. The need to shout it from the rooftops can feel strong, but it's often better to wait a bit. There is plenty of time to share your news and before you know it you won’t be able to hide your big belly! It's generally safer to wait until the end of your first trimester to tell the world. After your first trimester your risk of miscarrying is significantly lower. However, that said you should share your news whenever it feels right for you.

3. Choose a healthcare professional

Even if your home pregnancy test was positive, it's important to have your pregnancy confirmed by a professional. You'll be seeing a lot of your chosen healthcare provider over the coming months so it's important to find someone that you trust and are comfortable with. Once you've found your match, give your pregnancy a good start and schedule your first prenatal appointment.

4. Calculate your baby's due date

Don’t panic: you don’t need advanced math skills here. Use our simple due date calculator. Knowing your due date means you can set up a countdown, which is great for planning. Before you know it, your baby will be ready to meet you.

5. Start taking care of your body

Your body is your unborn baby's home for 9 months. To help your baby grow and develop you need to pay attention to your health. For starters, make sure your diet is high in folic acid and take a prenatal vitamin with folic acid. Do your best to follow a healthy diet and get plenty of rest. Looking after your body also means avoiding things that could be harmful to you and your baby. You don’t need to live in a bubble but it’s advised you give up: