What to Do After a Positive Pregnancy Test

Tell Someone That the Test is Positive

A positive line on a pregnancy test can be overwhelming and you shouldn’t have to process this information yourself. Tell a person you trust. Whether it’s your partner, a close friend or family member, having someone to ride this emotional rollercoaster with can make all the difference.

You may be feeling nervous, overjoyed, overwhelmed, or even stumped. This is normal. There’s no right or wrong way to take in the information you see on a pregnancy test. It may take a few minutes for the test to read positive, but that doesn’t mean you need to have the rest of your life figured out in two minutes. Revel at the moment and know that you are not alone in your feelings.

Find A Healthcare Provider

It is possible to have a faint positive pregnancy test. There are times when the evaporation lines can be mistaken for a positive. If you are unsure, you can make an appointment with your healthcare provider right away.

Even if you are certain the test is positive, you should still contact your healthcare provider. They will give you the answers you’re looking for whether, you’ve missed your period and you have a positive pregnancy test, or have been planning to start a family for some time.

OB-GYN vs Midwife

Before making your first prenatal appointment to confirm your pregnancy, you should decide what type of care provider you want. You can receive prenatal care from an OB-GYN or a midwife.

If you know that you want medical intervention or from previous conversations with your doctor that you’d be high risk; you may want to go with an OB-GYN. If you want a low intervention vaginal birth then you may want a midwife. Midwives have the some of the same capabilities as an OB-GYN like prescribing medicine, and ordering labs and ultrasounds.  The benefits of having babies during medically advanced times is that most midwives work in hospitals where they can be assisted by an OB-GYN if it is necessary.

If you go to your first appointment and you don’t like the experience, the good news is you don’t have to stick with that care provider. Pregnancy in itself is a lot to deal with and it’s important you feel as comfortable as you can during the process. Don’t feel pressured to continue seeing a doctor or midwife that doesn’t suit your needs. Keep in mind that, depending on the demands of your doctor’s office and your last menstrual period (LMP), it may be a few weeks before you can get an appointment.

Health Check: Due Date, Blood Tests and Prenatal Vitamins

During your appointment with your doctor or midwife, you will find out if you should carry on with your current health regimen. If you exercise on a consistent basis it is likely that your doctor will have you continue, unless you have high-risk factors that may intervene with continued physical activity. You will also be subjected to blood tests and will have to discuss any pre-existing conditions. You’ll also find out your due date.

You probably are aware that smoking and drinking while pregnant is a huge no, but if you aren’t taking vitamins daily then you’re about to. Your provider may have suggested a prenatal vitamin for you, or you may have a specific brand of vitamins you like. Either way, taking a prenatal vitamin will now be a part of your daily routine.

In terms of your diet, there are many changes that you’ll have to make. You should limit your caffeine intake and avoid fish that is high in mercury (tuna, king mackerel) because it is harmful to the baby’s developing nervous system. In terms of other seafood, deli meat, and cheeses; you should speak with your healthcare provider about their recommendations. Staying hydrated is also very important. If you can’t stomach flat water, try adding sparkling or infused water to your diet.

Learn about Maternity Leave

Remember all those emails HR sent out about the terms of your company’s maternity leave? Go back and read those addendums and stipulations. Learn about the terms of your maternity leave and the perks your job may offer to you and if you have one. Encourage your partner to do the same.

Times have changed and parents, other than the pregnant mother, are being given leave benefits to bond with their child. Talk to the human resources department at your work and do some research to find out what benefits your state, country, and employer offer. It is also important to find out the protocol for adding your baby to insurance. Knowing the benefits of your maternity leave like pay and time off, can give you an idea of how much money you need to start saving. Babies are expensive and being able to plan financially according to your family needs is important.

Ask! Ask! Ask!

Whether you are a first-time mom or an experienced one, each pregnancy is different. Talking to other moms can be a great resource and bonding experience. Moreover, do not be afraid to ask your healthcare provider questions. No query is too silly or embarrassing and the chances are, your OB or midwife has heard it all. There is nothing wrong with wanting a little reassurance as you navigate a new chapter in your life. Whatever your questions are, there are plenty of other moms that have been in your shoes or are currently in them – swollen feet and all.