Falling pregnant for the first time can be scary, from the emotions surrounding the positive pregnancy test to the pregnancy symptoms like morning sickness, it can be a lot to take in. However, after you find out you’re pregnant, there are many things to do. We have compiled a list of the seven most important things.
Read on for advice on how to take care of yourself and your growing baby!
Quick Guide:
- Tell your partner or close family and friends
- Book An Appointment with your doctor
- Book your first prenatal appointment
- Start taking prenatal vitamins
- Pay attention to your diet
- Inform your boss about your pregnancy
- Get excited!
1. Tell your partner or close family and friends
The first step after finding out you’re pregnant is to tell your partner or close family and friends the news. This is an exciting time for you and your loved ones, so share the news with those who are closest to you. It is important to note that most women wait until the 12-week mark, which is the end of the first trimester, before sharing the news with other acquaintances as this is when the risk of miscarriage is at its lowest.
2. Book An Appointment with your doctor
Once you have told your close friends and family, the next step is to book an appointment with your doctor. This is important so that you can start receiving prenatal care, which is important for a baby’s development. At this appointment, your healthcare provider will likely give you a list of things to do and avoid during pregnancy. You should expect to see your doctor once a month until 28 weeks, twice a month from 28 weeks until 36 weeks, and weekly from 36 weeks onwards.
3. Book your first prenatal appointment
Your first prenatal appointment is an important milestone in your pregnancy. At this appointment, you will meet with your doctor and discuss your health history, have a physical exam, and have an ultrasound to determine the due date. This appointment is usually scheduled around eight weeks after the last menstrual period.
4. Start taking prenatal vitamins
Once you find out you’re pregnant, it’s important to start taking prenatal vitamins. These are vitamins and minerals that are essential for a healthy pregnancy. Prenatal vitamins can be found at your local pharmacy or drug store. Some prenatal vitamins that are beneficial for a growing baby are folate and calcium.
5. Pay attention to your diet
Another important thing to do after finding out you’re pregnant is to start paying attention to your diet. This is because what you eat can impact the health of your growing baby. You should aim to eat a variety of healthy foods, such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. You should also avoid soft cheeses, alcohol and caffeine.
6. Inform your boss about your pregnancy
If you are employed, it is important to inform your boss about your pregnancy once you feel comfortable to. This will allow them to make any necessary changes, such as additional breaks or a modified work schedule. It is also important to let them know so that they can be aware of any changes in your health or well-being. Further, they will understand that you will need to take time off for doctor’s appointments and can organize a replacement while you are on maternity leave.
7. Get excited!
The most important thing to do after finding out you’re pregnant is to get excited! This is a momentous occasion and the start of a new chapter in your life. Enjoy this time and savoir every moment, as it goes by so quickly. Before you know it, you’ll be holding your bundle of joy in your arms. You can look forward to organising the nursery and planning events like a baby shower or gender reveal if you wish to find out the gender before birth.
Did you just find out you’re pregnant? Contact Shire Doctors and Dentists.
Having a baby is an exciting and emotional time in your life, and we are here to help you every step of the way. Book an appointment today so we can make sure your baby is healthy and developing as it should be.
