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Finding out you're pregnant is a life-changing event that inspires a variety of feelings, including excitement, joy, relief, fear, and maybe an additional dosage of confusion about what to do next. But, before you start considering whether to have an epidural or a medication-free delivery, take a moment to think. You have 40 weeks to discover all of the answers, so take it one trimester at a time.
Focusing on all of the major and minor to-dos on your ever-growing list (not to mention the changes occurring in your ever-growing body) may be stressful, to say the least. Here's a thorough guide that will walk you through everything you need to do following a positive pregnancy test, from booking your first prenatal appointment to making healthy lifestyle adjustments. Follow along to feel informed and ready throughout the early stages of pregnancy.
Consider taking a second test
There is certainly no danger in taking a second test. Human mistakes and misreadings are common, so a little confirmation might provide some peace of mind.Book a doctor's appointment
If your home pregnancy test comes out positive, you should see a doctor. Even if you don't see the doctor right away, phoning to book an appointment is one of the first things you should do after discovering you're pregnant.Understanding Missed Periods and Early Pregnancy
A missing menstruation usually signifies you're 4 to 5 weeks pregnant. This is a crucial milestone to commemorate since it marks the start of your pregnancy adventure. Furthermore, a blood test for beta-hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) may establish your pregnancy more firmly than home testing.Be mindful of the phenomenon known as a chemical pregnancy, which happens when a fertilised egg adheres to the uterine lining but does not develop into a viable pregnancy. This may result in a positive pregnancy test followed by an early miscarriage.
How to choose a care provider?
As you prepare for your first prenatal checkup, you may choose to see an obstetrician based on your needs. The selection is based on your expectations throughout pregnancy and delivery. If you want a vaginal birth with an epidural or a scheduled C-section, or if you believe you have a higher-risk pregnancy (such as diabetes or high blood pressure), an obstetrician-gynaecologist is generally the best option since they can prescribe medicine and conduct surgery.Build Healthy Habits
You're undoubtedly already aware that smoking and drinking alcohol are not permitted during pregnancy, but there are a number of additional steps you'll need to take to prepare your body for a healthy baby. If you haven't started taking prenatal vitamins yet, now is the time to start—as your baby grows, they'll need calcium to form bones, iron to produce red blood cells, folic acid to prevent neural tube problems, and a variety of other essential minerals.Keep up with your (pregnancy-safe) workouts
In addition to nutritious foods, you should continue to exercise.Not only does regular exercise help you maintain a healthy weight, but it also gets your body ready for the strain of carrying and delivering a baby as well as the stamina you'll need following childbirth, when you will be constantly lifting and cradling your often not-so-light newborn.
You have time, so be patient with yourself and accept each milestone as it comes. Put your health and happiness first, and everything else will fall into place.
Understanding False Positives and Negatives
False Positives
A positive pregnancy test result may occur even when not pregnant. This might be due to taking the test too early, chemical pregnancies, or certain medical disorders (such as ovarian cysts).False Negatives
This situation arises when a pregnancy test gives a negative result even though the person is pregnant. It may be caused by taking the test too early, using diluted urine, or failing to follow the test instructions correctly. To confirm a result, particularly if you feel you are pregnant despite a negative test, retesting after a few days might be beneficial.Early pregnancy symptoms to expect
In early pregnancy, you may encounter symptoms like:- Missed period: This is often the first clue
- Morning sickness: Morning sickness might occur as early as a few weeks
- Fatigue: Fatigue refers to increased weariness caused by hormonal changes
- Breast Changes: Tenderness or oedema may develop. These symptoms may vary greatly across people and may not be present for everyone
Managing uncertainty and mixed emotions
It is common to feel a range of feelings after a positive test, including elation, worry, fear, and excitement. Hormonal fluctuations may exacerbate these emotions, and the feeling of what lies ahead can be stressful. Self-care, talking to supportive friends or family, and seeking professional counselling may all help you deal with these emotions.Discussing pregnancy with your partner or family
Maintaining open communication with your partner or family is crucial. Share your thoughts, anxieties, and expectations for the pregnancy. Discussing how you both envisage this journey will deepen your relationship and prepare you for the obstacles that lie ahead. It is also crucial to discuss support networks, economics, and parenting methods.Common early pregnancy concerns: When to seek help?
1. Spotting or light bleeding
Light spotting is common in early pregnancy, and it usually occurs around the time of implantation or during hormonal fluctuations.- When to seek help: If you have excessive bleeding (equivalent to a menstrual period), or if spotting is followed by significant cramps or discomfort, see your doctor. These might indicate a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy.
2. Mild cramping
It may occur as the uterus starts to stretch and expand.- When to seek help: If the cramping is strong or prolonged, and is accompanied by blood or other uncommon symptoms, get medical attention.
3. Nausea and vomiting
Many individuals have morning sickness, which may vary from moderate nausea to severe vomiting.- When to seek help: If nausea stops you from swallowing food or drinks (a condition known as hyperemesis gravidarum), or if you are severely dehydrated (symptoms include dizziness, dry mouth, or decreased urine), see your doctor.
4. Lack of Symptoms
Lack of symptoms: Some individuals have few or no symptoms during early pregnancy, which is normal.- When to seek help: If you experienced symptoms that abruptly disappeared, there might be cause for worry. It is important to visit your healthcare practitioner to confirm that everything is going well.
5. Fatigue
Extreme weariness is common during early pregnancy owing to hormonal changes and higher energy needs.- When to seek help: If exhaustion is severe and makes it impossible to conduct everyday tasks, or if it is accompanied by other troubling symptoms, see your doctor.
6. Breast changes
Breast soreness, swelling, or changes in the look of the nipples are all normal during early pregnancy.- When To seek help: If you discover any lumps or major changes in your breast tissue that are troubling, see a healthcare expert.
7. Urinary symptoms
Hormonal changes and increased blood flow to the pelvis might cause an increase in urine output.- When to seek help: If you have painful urination, blood in your urine, or indications of a urinary tract infection (UTI), such as urgency and burning, consult a doctor.
8. Severe headaches or migraines
Hormonal shifts might cause headaches for certain individuals.- When to seek help: If you experience a severe headache that does not respond to over-the-counter pain relievers, or if it is accompanied by vision changes or swelling, see a doctor.
9. Signs of Infection
Minor pain may occur, but serious symptoms should not be ignored.- When To Seek Help: Symptoms such as fever, chills, and atypical vaginal discharge may suggest an infection. If you encounter any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare professional right away.
10. Emotional Changes
Mood swings and emotional volatility are normal reactions to hormonal changes.- When to seek help: If you are experiencing chronic anxiety, depression, or overload, you should get help from a mental health specialist or your healthcare provider.
Understanding chemical pregnancy and how to emotionally cope if it happens?
A chemical pregnancy occurs when a fertilised egg adheres to the uterine lining but fails to develop correctly, resulting in an early loss. It may provide a positive pregnancy test followed by a negative result. Emotionally, dealing with a chemical pregnancy may be difficult. Allow yourself to mourn, express your emotions, and seek help from loved ones or specialists. Remember that this is not an unusual occurrence, and it does not prevent you from having a healthy pregnancy in the future.The early stages of pregnancy may be fraught with uncertainties and emotions. Understanding these symptoms can help you feel more prepared and knowledgeable as you begin this life-changing adventure. Remember to seek expert help and rely on your support system during this exciting time.
FAQs on Got a Positive Pregnancy Test—What to Do Now?
- Meaning of a faint line on a pregnancy test?
If your urine is diluted or you are extremely early in your pregnancy, a test line may be a faint light pink line. A test line just slightly pink also shows a positive result. It's time to see your doctor to verify a pregnancy if the test line shows colour. - How soon after a positive pregnancy test should I see a doctor?
If you recently had a positive pregnancy test, you should book an appointment with your physician as soon as possible.
