The moment you find out you’re pregnant is a whirlwind. You may have had a hunch because of your late menstrual cycle, tender breasts, and the fact that you haven’t been able to keep your eyes open for an entire episode of The Bachelorette. But then there’s the moment where you go to the pharmacy to buy a pregnancy test and get the results. It's positive! You might want to scream out to the world: “I just found out I’m pregnant!”
You’ll also want to tell your partner. You might be a first-time mom who wants to cry because you’re afraid or excited — or a little of both. You might want to call your mom or bestie for advice. We go through a roller coaster of emotions, especially with a first-time pregnancy. But take note, because there’s a list of important things to know when pregnant, especially during those first several weeks.
Here are eight things to do once you find out you’re pregnant.
Drink water.
If you’re someone who regularly chugs H20, you’re on the right path. When you’re pregnant, you need more water than the average person in order to form amniotic fluid, build new tissue, carry nutrients to the baby, produce extra blood, enhance digestion, and flush out wastes and toxins. You’ll find yourself thirstier these days, and having a bottle of water at your side, in the car, and in your bag when you go out will become pretty normal.
Take vitamins.
Like staying hydrated, taking vitamins is recommended whether you’re pregnant or not. If you’ve been planning your pregnancy, your doctor likely already recommended you take a prenatal vitamin with 400 micrograms of folic acid. Folic acid is a B vitamin that prevents spinal defects in growing babies.
Now that you’re being healthy for two, you’ll need more vitamins, minerals, and nutrients. According to the March of Dimes, the most significant include iron, calcium, vitamin D, an omega-3 of DHA (which helps with visual and cognitive growth), and iodine.
Visit your doctor(s).
Keep up visits to your general practitioner, but most importantly, make an appointment with your OB/GYN. Don’t be alarmed by the fact that although your pregnancy test came back positive, most gynecologists won’t see you until six to eight weeks after your last period. Your doctor will still run through recommendations of what not to do when you're pregnant for the first six weeks over the phone.
Eat for two.
Eating while pregnant doesn’t mean just eating double the food. Not. One. Bit. Sure, your appetite will grow and there will be some pregnancy cravings, but growing a new person means there will also be some new dietary restrictions (foods containing mercury, caffeine, deli meats, raw seafood, soft cheeses, wine). Also note that your hormones will be raging so healthy snacks will be your best defense. You can check in with your doctor to help you make smart food choices during this time.
Adjust your workout routine.
Adjust your workout routine. Most women can continue to work out during pregnancy. Exercising will provide energy, help relieve stress, and help you gain the right amount of weight during pregnancy. Moderate daily workouts such as walking, swimming, yoga, and low-impact aerobics can even help your body get ready for labor and delivery. There are plenty of maternity workout outfits to inspire you to get physical!
Get some rest.
The first trimester of pregnancy is when most women are the most tired. Please don’t feel guilty for needing a nap — and actually taking it. Use all the sleep tips and tricks you can find. Your body deserves to rest because it is busy working hard to create a beautiful human!
Do those Kegels.
You may have heard a little something about Kegel exercises, which are simple clench-and-release movements to strengthen pelvic floor muscles. These muscles are normally weakened during pregnancy and childbirth, so tightening them not only benefits you during this time, but they are known to do wonders for your sex life! You can do Kegel exercises any time and anywhere, and no one will know how hard you’re working and strong you’re getting. (Well, maybe one person will! Wink.)
Document it!
You don’t have to start an Instagram account or YouTube channel, but it is a good idea to document your journey to motherhood, especially if this is your first child. You’ll want to remember how you felt — and looked — before your baby bump. Taking pictures from the start when you scream "I just found out I’m pregnant!" will allow you to look back at the beginning of your pregnancy up until you meet your baby.
*Disclaimer: The advice on CafeMom.com is not a substitute for consultation with a medical professional or treatment for a specific condition. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem without consulting a qualified professional. Please contact your health-care provider with questions and concerns.
