Finding out you're pregnant is an emotional r.o.l.l.e.r.c.o.a.s.t.e.r!. Excitement, disbelief, happiness, fear, etc. etc. etc. Once you've had some time to let it sink in, it's time to start cranking through your "holy s***, this is real...I'm pregnant" checklist. These are the first things you should do when you find out you're pregnant.
GENERAL
Make an appointment with an OB-GYN that accepts your health insurance and delivers at your preferred hospital.
Use an estimated due date calculator as some providers may not schedule an in-person appointment until you are 8-10 weeks pregnant.
If you haven't already, start taking a daily prenatal vitamin with folate or folic acid.
Familiarize yourself with the foods, drinks, and activities you should avoid.
Grab a water bottle, and try to drink about ten 8-ounce glasses of water per day.
If you're drinking tap water, get a water test kit to check for contaminants, especially lead, which cannot be removed via a Brita or refrigerator filter.
Call your health insurance company to inform them that you are pregnant and to start planning medical expenses.
If you don't currently have health insurance, research your options.
Buy the What to Expect When You're Expecting book, download the WTE app, and subscribe to the daily digest emails for your baby's birth month.
Get in the habit of going for walks.
DOCTOR, DOCTOR!
Ask the Doctor's Office these questions, even before your appointment:
What should I look for in a prenatal vitamin? Do you recommend a brand?
Do you have advice for combating early pregnancy symptoms (nausea, vomiting, fatigue, etc)? Vitamin B6, Preggie Pops, Ginger Tablets?
Can I continue taking (x, y, z) prescribed medications? Are there any I should avoid?
Can I continue taking (x, y, z) over the counter medications (e.g. face wash, face cream, pain killers, etc.)? Are there any I should avoid?
Should I be taking any supplements (choline, fish oil, etc)?
How much exercise can/should I be doing?
Should I change my caffeine intake?
Before my first appointment and/or throughout early pregnancy, when should I call or go in to the hospital (e.g. bleeding, cramping, feeling faint)?
If you have any substance addictions (alcohol, tobacco, etc.), make a plan with your doctor about how to quit.
If you have a job that requires heavy lifting or exposure to chemicals, talk to your doctor about whether your employer needs to make any accommodations for you.
PAMPER YOURSELF
Get in the habit of lotioning up to avoid dry skin.
Consider a prenatal massage if your doctor approves.
Consider visiting a prenatal chiropractor if you're experiencing neck/back pain and if your doctor approves.
Nap any time you get a chance!
