What to Do After a Positive Pregnancy Test

Even when planning a pregnancy, many women are faced with wondering exactly what to do after a positive pregnancy test. The emotions of this life changing situation can be overwhelming when you first see that pink plus sign, but here are some practical and important steps to take when you discover you are pregnant.

A positive test is just the beginning

Am I Really Pregnant?

Today's home pregnancy tests are highly accurate, however, like every manufactured item, there is a chance that the results of a home pregnancy test can be wrong. This is why the first step recommended after a home test shows a positive result is to make an appointment with your obstetrician/gynecologist. He or she can give you a blood-based pregnancy test that is more accurate than the urine-based home pregnancy tests to confirm you are truly pregnant. The doctor will also commonly do a pelvic exam and discuss any current health issues you might have.

If you do not have health insurance, you can visit a clinic such as Birthright or talk to your local health department about free pregnancy testing and government-funded health care programs.

Once You Know You're Pregnant…

Once you know you're pregnant, it's extremely important to start or maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle. Here are some important steps of what to do after a positive pregnancy test to protect the baby you are carrying:

• If you smoke or use street drugs, stop or get help to quit immediately. Tobacco has been linked to low birth weight, premature birth, and other problems, and street drugs can cause severe mental or physical deformity or death.

• If you drink alcohol, cease drinking during your pregnancy. There is no known amount of alcohol that is considered 'safe' during pregnancy.

• Continue regular exercise, or begin doing some low-impact exercise. This can be as simple as regular walking or swimming.

• Maintain or develop a healthy diet plan. Consuming the right amounts of protein, whole grains, and fruits and vegetables is essential for the health of you and your growing child. Foods rich in folic acid are beneficial, particularly in early pregnancy.

• Begin taking a pre-natal vitamin. Pre-natal vitamins with iron are often recommended and you can buy these over the counter or get a prescription from your health care provider.

• Make an appointment with an obstetrician to plan your pre-natal care. Generally you may be seen about once a month in early pregnancy, with more appointments as the pregnancy progresses. Your doctor can tell you about any tests that are recommended, how your pregnancy will develop, and will assist you in planning your care and delivery options.

Whom to Tell?

Although some women are so excited about the impending birth that they immediately begin telling everyone they know, other women, especially when facing unplanned pregnancy, are hesitant to discuss it. Even with planned pregnancies, women may face a fear of miscarriage that stops them from spreading the news. Although these emotions are normal and understandable, it can be extremely helpful to discuss your pregnancy with someone -- your husband or partner, a relative, or a close friend.

Teens in an unplanned pregnancy situation can talk to a school counselor, clergy member, family friend, or another person you trust to offer advice and help. Telling the father of the child, even if you are no longer in a relationship with that person, is also important. He may want to be a part of the child's life and can also assist in providing financial child support (in cases of abusive relationships, or where drugs or alcohol are involved, talk to a counselor first).

What to Do After a Positive Pregnancy Test: Assessing Your Future

Even the savviest of women will face a huge change with motherhood looming in the future. Being a mother is a special and rewarding gift, but it does take some planning, preparation, and life changes.

After having a positive pregnancy test and scheduling your initial health care, you may want to begin assessing your options for the future. You'll want to consider the following:

• Your current career or schooling situation. With flex time and telecommuting options, more and more women are continuing to work after having children. Finishing school and having a career with a child is certainly possible in today's society, with many programs in place dedicated to helping women succeed. However, you'll need to discuss with your spouse, partner, or family what your future goals are so you can work together on a plan to help you reach them. If you plan to stay at home, you'll want to discuss that with your partner as well.

• Your housing needs. If you live in a small apartment or house without space for a child, you'll need to consider your future residence. Although babies initially can sleep in a cradle or crib in mom and dad's room, you'll most likely want to ensure your child has a room of his or her own.

• Your role as a mother. Pregnancy is a great time to take parenting classes, read books and magazines, and talk to other mothers about parenting methods. You'll also want to consider whether or not you'll be breastfeeding after the baby's born. Although it is recommended because of its emotional and health benefits, women who are uncomfortable with the practice or are planning on returning to work full time may wish to bottle feed exclusively.

Pregnancy Resources

Wondering what to do after a positive pregnancy test might feel overwhelming, but there are many organization and help lines available to offer assistance and help you prepare for your future.

• American Pregnancy Association
• Pregnancy Help Line
• Life Site Pregnancy Support
• Care Net Pregnancy Help
• Bethany Pregnancy and Adoption Services.

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