A positive home pregnancy test requires swift, informed action to establish the foundation for a healthy pregnancy. The initial steps involve confirming the result, making immediate lifestyle changes, and preparing for formal medical care. This guide outlines the practical steps to take, moving from initial confirmation to preparation for the first prenatal visit.
Confirming the Result and Contacting a Provider
Home pregnancy tests are highly accurate, detecting the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), but the next step is initiating contact with a healthcare provider, such as an obstetrician-gynecologist or midwife. While clinical confirmation is sometimes performed, most providers accept the positive at-home result and proceed directly to scheduling the first appointment. This initial phone call establishes care and should happen right away, even though the first in-person appointment is typically scheduled around the eighth to tenth week of pregnancy.
During this initial contact, you must provide the date of the first day of your last menstrual period (LMP). This date calculates your estimated gestational age, determining how far along the pregnancy is measured. Having your insurance information ready will streamline the registration process and help confirm coverage for prenatal services. Selecting a provider and getting on their schedule early is important, as prenatal care practices often have long wait times for new patient appointments.
Immediate Health and Lifestyle Adjustments
The earliest weeks of pregnancy involve rapid development, making immediate lifestyle adjustments paramount for the health of the embryo. The most important supplement to begin immediately is a prenatal vitamin containing 400 to 800 micrograms of folic acid. Folic acid supports the proper closure of the neural tube, which forms the brain and spinal cord, and must be present early to prevent certain birth defects.
You must immediately stop consuming alcohol, smoking, and using recreational drugs, as these substances can harm the fetus. Review all prescription and over-the-counter medications, as well as any herbal supplements you currently take, with your healthcare provider. Some medications safe outside of pregnancy, such as certain blood pressure medications, may need to be adjusted or replaced with safer alternatives.
Dietary changes should focus on minimizing exposure to bacteria and toxins. Avoid soft cheeses, unpasteurized milk, undercooked meats, and deli meats, which carry a risk of listeria infection. Avoid high-mercury fish, such as shark, swordfish, and king mackerel, while low-mercury options can be consumed in moderation. Caffeine intake should be limited to no more than 200 milligrams per day.
Preparing for Your First Prenatal Appointment
The first formal prenatal appointment is typically the longest and most comprehensive, establishing a medical baseline for your care. You can prepare by calculating your Estimated Due Date (EDD), conventionally determined by adding 280 days to the date of your LMP. This initial date provides a working timeline, though it may be adjusted later following an early ultrasound.
Gathering detailed personal and family health information is essential for this visit. The provider will need to know about chronic health conditions, past surgeries, and any previous pregnancy history, including complications. Document the medical history of both biological families, noting any genetic conditions or inheritable diseases. Bring a comprehensive list of all current medications and supplements so the provider can confirm their safety during pregnancy.
During the appointment, expect a thorough physical exam, often including a pelvic exam, and a series of initial laboratory tests. Standard blood work determines your blood type, checks for anemia, and screens for immunity to certain infections. A urine sample will also be collected to check for signs of infection or other health concerns. The provider will discuss the general schedule of prenatal visits and expectations for the first trimester.