5 things to do when you find out you are pregnant
In this article, we will describe 5 things to do when you find out you are pregnant.
So. I’m pregnant – what next?
1. Calculate your due date
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Enter your last period’s start date (dd/mm/yyyy)
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Input your average cycle length
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Get your estimated due date.
Note: Your 12-week dating scan (and ultrasound) will provide a more accurate date.
2. Contact your local midwife or GP
- You may be able to self-refer to your local maternity unit directly for your antenatal care. They will allocate a midwife to you. Visit your local hospital’s website to find out more.
- Speak to your GP if you can’t self-refer or if you think your pregnancy may be high-risk. For example, if you have a long-term condition, such as diabetes, or you are over 40 years old. They will tell the midwifery team you are pregnant.
- It is very important to tell your GP, midwife or specialist about any medication you take. They can make sure you are on the safest medication for you and baby. Do not stop taking any medication without talking to your GP or specialist first.
- You will be given a date for your first appointment with a midwife, which is called the booking appointment. This should happen before you are 10 weeks pregnant.
3. Plan a healthy pregnancy
- Calculate your BMI: assess your healthy weight range.
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Take essential vitamins (vitamin D, folic acid)
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Eat balanced meals, avoid risky foods
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Exercise (walking, swimming)
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Quit alcohol and smoking
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Consult a doctor about your medication. Changes may be needed.
4. Manage symptoms
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Familiarise yourself with common symptoms (tiredness, morning sickness, breast enlargement)
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Identify red flags (severe symptoms).
5. Telling people that you are pregnant
- You may want to tell your family and friends that you’re pregnant immediately or wait a while until you know how you feel
- Or you may want to wait until you’ve had your 12-week dating scant (ultrasound), before you tell people
- Some of your family or friends may have mixed feelings or react in unexpected ways to your news
- You may wish to discuss this with a midwife.
Summary
We have described 5 things to do when you find out you are pregnant. We hope it has been helpful.
