3 Things To Do When You Find Out You Are Pregnant

Whether you take a home test or have a test in a clinic, once you find out you are pregnant, you may feel overwhelmed. Whether a pregnancy is planned or not, the first trimester can be a highly emotional experience. Below are five things you should do once you find out you are pregnant. 

Confirm the Pregnancy 

If you take an at-home test, you should have your pregnancy confirmed by a professional. In some situations, this may involve a urine or blood test at a clinic. However, most pregnancies are confirmed with an ultrasound. An ultrasound can confirm that a fertilized egg has implanted in your uterus. Some positive pregnancy tests may be due to chemical pregnancies, which occur when an egg is fertilized but does not implant in the uterus. A confirmation will allow you to be sure you are pregnant and will also give you a clear idea about your due date. 

Get Medical Advice 

After your pregnancy is confirmed, you should get medical advice for how to take care of yourself during your pregnancy. During a healthy, low-risk pregnancy, this may involve dietary changes, supplements, and a healthy exercise regime. A healthcare provider will also be able to tell you how often you should come in for check-ups and when to expect various exams such as ultrasounds. 

If you have a high-risk pregnancy or your initial ultrasound shows complications, you may need more specific advice about how to handle your pregnancy including signs to watch out for and whether you should restrict certain activities. 

Make Sure You Have Emotional Support

The first trimester can be difficult. Even though your pregnancy may not be visible to others, you may feel tired, experience mood swings, and have concerns about your future. It is important to have an emotional support network. If you do not have emotional support in your life, many pregnancy centers offer counseling, where you can discuss your issues with someone who will listen to you and provide options for you to consider. 

Whether you need a pregnancy test or just need professional pregnancy help, you should make sure to contact a clinic with professionals who are experienced in dealing with pregnancy. You can get all the support you need during the next 9 months. Having extra support and guidance during the first months of pregnancy can reduce your stress, give you confidence, and help you have a healthy, safe pregnancy.