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.
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:
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:
- Alcohol. There is no proven safe amount, type, or time to drink alcohol during pregnancy for you and your unborn baby
- Cigarettes and vaping. They are full of harmful toxins and can cause defects in your baby.
- Foods like soft cheeses, certain fish, raw eggs and meat, and some food additives. They can be potentially harmful.
The information of this article has been reviewed by nursing experts of the Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric, & Neonatal Nurses (AWHONN). The content should not substitute medical advice from your personal healthcare provider. Please consult your healthcare provider for recommendations/diagnosis or treatment. For more advice from AWHONN nurses, visit Healthy Mom&Baby at health4mom.org.
