I Just Found Out I’m Pregnant And Need Help!
We’re sure you have a load of questions right now, and we’re equally sure that it’s vital you have as much information as possible as you begin your journey toward motherhood.
Here are some essential steps to take as you get started.
1) Stay Calm
Seriously. It’s going to be okay.
Take a deep breath and remind yourself that pregnancy is one of the most natural things in the world. It’s okay to feel anxious and even a little scared. The first trimester can be an incredibly challenging time for many new mothers as the body begins to experience new sensations and emotions.
Remind yourself that you have a lot of support during this time.
2) Pay Attention To Your Symptoms
You’ll be experiencing many changes in your body during pregnancy, and some, such as morning sickness, back pain, and swelling, may not be pleasant. Make a record of each of these symptoms as you experience them so you can talk about them with your doctor.
3) Meet With an OB/GYN
Speaking of doctors, it’s best to get an appointment and meet with your OB/GYN as soon as you can manage. Ideally, this should be done a month or so after your first missed period or positive test result.
If you have high blood pressure, diabetes, a history of ectopic pregnancies, or are on any medication, you should try to get this appointment made sooner.
Meeting with an OB/GYN early allows the doctor to discuss good habits for the health of both you and the baby and what you can expect in the coming months.
4) Monitor Your Blood Pressure
Blood pressure tends to reflect overall health. High blood pressure during pregnancy can cause preeclampsia, eclampsia, stroke, and other complications. Left untreated, high blood pressure can also affect the mother’s blood vessels and reduce the baby’s access to oxygen and nutrients.
Keeping track of your blood pressure and seeking help when it gets too high can prevent many problems.
5) Get a Handle On Nutrition
Taking proper nutrition for both you and your developing baby is essential.
Ask your doctor about what vitamins you should take—particularly prenatal vitamins. Find out which foods you should avoid, such as unpasteurized dairy, processed meats, some seafood, undercooked meat, and others your doctor can inform you about.
6) Learn What Else To Avoid
Unfortunately, there are a lot of things that could have a significant negative impact on your health and the health of your baby,
It’s essential for both of you to avoid smoking (this includes vaping), alcohol, and caffeine. You should also stay out of hot tubs, whirlpools, and saunas.
Some over-the-counter medications can pose risks, as can something as simple as changing the cat’s litter box.
Talk with your doctor about what other hazards to avoid.
7) Get Rest
Early pregnancy can be exhausting. Listen to your body and rest when you need to. Take a nap. Sleep late. Turn in early. Allow rest to be a priority during this time.
8) Exercise
While resting up is important, so is getting regular exercise.
Just don’t overdo it.
Walking, riding a stationary bike, and prenatal yoga are all particularly beneficial to the health of the mother and child. Get your doctor’s input on their recommendations based on your current health.
9) Tests and Screenings
Tests and screenings for new pregnancies ensure everyone is healthy and determine if any special considerations need to be addressed during your pregnancy.
Tests you can expect during your first few months of pregnancy include:
- Pelvic exam
- Pap smear
- Blood type check
- Urine culture
- Socially transmitted infections (STIs)
- A1C test for diabetes
- Antibody screening
- Genetic screening
You should also expect a general physical with each doctor’s visit, including checking weight, blood pressure, lungs, and heart.
About Ultrasounds
The number of ultrasounds you can anticipate during your pregnancy will depend on several factors, but in general, you’ll have at least two. The first will occur sometime between five and fourteen weeks. Your next ultrasound, which could be between 18 and 22 weeks away, should reveal the sex of your unborn child.
Let Heartbeat of Toledo Be Here For You
At Heartbeat of Toledo, we believe in the health and well-being of you and your baby from pregnancy to birth and beyond. On top of that, we’re absolutely committed to providing women with the best health and prenatal care available.
We are a life-affirming organization whose mission is to be the best source of information and support to women facing pregnancies and to help moms, dads, and babies in need. Call today for immediate assistance. (419) 241-9131
