Congratulations—you’re pregnant! You’re excited! Maybe you’re a little bit nervous. Your mind is probably racing with all the possibilities, and you’re likely asking yourself one question: “What should I do now?”
Good news: We’ve got answers for you! Here are five steps to take once you get a positive pregnancy test.
1. Get started on prenatal health care.
First things first: Make an appointment with your doctor or other health care provider to get the ball rolling. You’re going to need prenatal vitamins, health-related information, and plenty of self-care during this exciting journey to parenthood.
2. Loop in your partner.
You may the one expecting the baby, but there’s no need to go it alone! Talk to your partner about how you’re feeling, let them know if you need anything (maybe a massage!?), and delegate some tasks: checking your health insurance coverage, researching car seats, or jotting down name ideas to discuss.
3. Prepare for morning sickness.
Sure, you may be one of the fortunate 20 to 30 percent of women who don’t experience nausea, but it’s best to be prepared. Check out our morning sickness guide for advice on remedies, foods to try, and other helpful hints.
4. Think about your birth plan (before and after).
Do you know where you’ll give birth? If not, it’s time to schedule a tour of the local hospital or birth center and speak with some care providers. Do some research to learn about pain relief options, narrow down your labor preferences, and determine what to bring to your birth.
5. Research baby gear—and start your baby registry!
It’s never too early to think about what you’ll need! You’ll have so many choices to make, and your friends and family will definitely want to shower you with gifts. We have the lowdown on all sorts of baby gear and baby products: cloth diapers, baby bouncers and swings, baby monitors, breast pumps, bassinets, strollers, and baby carriers.
