You saw two lines in the box of the pregnancy tester – you feel joy and euphoria, and you want to scream to the whole world “I’m expecting!”. Firstly, you think about how to make the future father happy with the news and inform the future grandparents… but soon the thoughts “what’s next?” start spinning in your head. How will the employer react to your pregnancy, will you be able to raise a child, will there be enough money, what will happen to your body now, what further steps you should take now? Keeping that in mind, we will read more about all steps you should take after knowing about the pregnancy.
Know birth date
Check what the tentative date of birth may be with a pregnancy due date calculator. All you need to do is enter the date of your last menstrual period (LMP) and the calculator will automatically calculate the estimated due date. At the same time, you will be able to see the approximate week or trimester of your pregnancy and search for useful tips for pregnant women.
Common feelings, emotions, and physical sensations
A group of scientists conducted a study trying to find out which signs of pregnancy are most common in women. Research data can be found in this article. During the first trimester of pregnancy, a new family member is trying to settle in your belly. This period is a big shock for your body, so you may experience unpleasant sensations:
- Morning sickness
- Breast tenderness
- Shortness of breath, rapid fatigue, drowsiness
- Irritability and mood swings
- Dizziness
- Frequent urination
- Melting limbs and constipation
All feelings and physical sensations are normal. So, do not be afraid to talk with your partner, loved ones, and doctors. Take care of yourself and your unborn child. Eat healthy food, drink water, and practice mild exercises.
Buy 4 things immediately
Is your pregnancy unplanned? When you suddenly find out that you are pregnant, you may think that you have not had enough time to prepare properly. However, later is better than never. Here are 4 things you should purchase immediately:
- Folic acid tablets: 0.4 mg per day of folic acid is recommended but not required. Folic acid is one of the essential compounds suitable for the development of a baby in the 1st trimester of pregnancy.
- Urine containers: it is much more convenient to use special urine containers for urine tests than to look for jars at home.
- High-waisted pregnancy underwear, pants with a wider waist, or special maternity pants: The comfy tummy control maternity underwear and pants could accommodate to your growing belly. Also, maternity underwear protects you from skin irritation.
- One size larger bra: Breast growth in the first trimester may be rapid or size increase gradually. In any case, the larger bra will be a great purchase.
Visit a doctor
It is recommended to visit the doctor for the first time before the 12th week of pregnancy. During this visit, the women’s general health is assessed, a gynecological examination is performed, blood pressure is measured, and body mass index (BMI) is determined. The first mandatory tests are also carried out. The doctor will determine the blood group and the Rhesus (Rh) factor of the pregnant woman, take blood for a general blood test, syphilis, and HIV screening, and take a urine test. Doctors also recommend examining a urine culture, which detects asymptomatic urinary tract infections. During the first visit, the doctor will discuss healthy lifestyle habits and working conditions during pregnancy with you.
The Bottom Line
To know that you are pregnant means not only joy but also sometimes anxiety and fear. But do not be afraid. Calculate your current pregnancy time with a due date calculator, buy the necessary items and go to the doctor. Of course, take care of yourself and your baby, eat healthy food, exercise, give up harmful habits and spend quality time with your loved ones. Enjoy this special time in your life.
