15 Things to Do When You Find Out You’re Pregnant

You just saw those two little lines and now your mind is racing.

What do I actually do next?

Getting a positive pregnancy test can bring up a mix of emotions: joy, disbelief, nervousness, excitement, sometimes everything all at once.

You’ve probably been waiting in nervous anticipation for this day, and now that it’s here, you might not know what to prioritize or where to start.

This post is your practical, realistic first-trimester checklist: 15 essential things to do once you find out you’re pregnant.

From doctor visits to emotional prep, these steps will help you feel grounded and confident as you begin this next chapter. Let’s walk through it together.

Health and Appointments

1. Research and Choose a Provider

Now that you’re officially pregnant, the first big step is choosing where you’ll go for prenatal care.

Maybe your current gynecologist already provides pregnancy care, or maybe you want to look into other options like a midwife or birthing center.

Start by researching what’s available in your area and covered by your insurance.

Read reviews, ask friends for recommendations, and don’t be afraid to switch if it doesn’t feel like a good fit.

I didn’t love the first provider I went to during my first pregnancy; something just felt off. I trusted my gut and switched clinics, and that new provider ended up being the one I saw through my first three pregnancies. You’ll be spending a lot of time with this person for these 9 months; make sure you feel comfortable and supported.

2. Start Prenatal Vitamins

If you haven’t already, start taking a prenatal vitamin as soon as possible.

These are packed with nutrients that support your baby’s development (especially folic acid and iron) and help keep you healthy through all the changes your body is about to experience.

You can research different brands or ask your provider for a recommendation.

The most important thing is consistency. Make sure you are take them daily and pair them with food if you find they upset your stomach.

3. Calculate Your Due Date

This one’s fun! Knowing your estimated due date can help you picture your pregnancy timeline and when you might be welcoming your baby.

You can use any online due date calculator. Most are based on the first day of your last period and your typical cycle length.

This gives you a rough idea of:

• What season your baby might be born in

• What kind of baby clothes you’ll need

• How to start planning maternity leave, the nursery, or your baby budget.

Keep in mind this is just an estimate. Your doctor will give you a more accurate date at your first appointment, but even that is just a guide. Babies like to make their own schedules!

4. Download a Pregnancy App (or Two)

Pregnancy apps are a fun and helpful way to stay connected to your journey.

They show weekly updates on your baby’s size from a grain of rice, to an apple, all the way up to a watermelon. They also explain what’s developing each week, and share tips on common symptoms, nutrition, and self-care.

Some even offer reminders for appointments and milestones, and you can use them to log symptoms, moods, or cravings.

They make the process more interactive and help you feel informed about what’s happening in your body.

5. Schedule Your First Prenatal Appointment

Your first prenatal visit usually happens around eight weeks, though it can be sooner if you have any health concerns or risk factors.

At this appointment, you’ll get: confirmation of your pregnancy, discuss your due date, and possibly have your first ultrasound, your first little glimpse of baby!

Bring any questions you have, no matter how small they seem.

This is your time to ask about safe activities, what symptoms are normal, what foods to avoid, and anything else that’s been on your mind.

6. Review Your Medications

Before stopping or starting any medication, check in with your provider.

Rapidly stopping some medications can have side effects, and others may need to be switched to pregnancy-safe alternatives.

Make a list of everything you take, including vitamins, over-the-counter meds, and supplements, and go over it with your doctor.

This helps them give you the best guidance and ensures your baby’s safety while keeping you healthy too.

Lifestyle and Well-Being

7. Focus on Food and Hydration

There’s a common myth that you need to “eat for two,” but really, it’s about eating balanced, nourishing meals and staying hydrated.

That said, pregnancy cravings (and morning sickness) can make this tricky.

With all my pregnancies, I went through stretches where nothing sounded good to eat. I was hungry but couldn’t stand most foods.

Try small, frequent snacks every two to three hours, even a few crackers or toast, can help keep nausea manageable.

Aim for a mix of protein, whole grains, fruits, and veggies when you can. And don’t stress too much if you have off days. Your body’s doing incredible work and will tell you what it needs.

8. Move Your Body

You don’t need to start an intense workout routine unless you want to; even light movement can make a huge difference in your mood, energy, and overall comfort.

Simple activities like walking, stretching, or prenatal yoga can help ease nausea, support circulation, and boost endorphins.

If you were active before pregnancy, you can likely continue your usual routine with a few modifications, but always check with your provider before starting or adjusting any exercise program.

Think of movement as taking care of yourself, not punishment. It’s about feeling strong and connected to your body as it changes.

9. Say Goodbye to What’s Unsafe

Now’s a good time to take a closer look at your everyday habits and make small adjustments to keep you and your baby healthy.

Some things are best to pause during pregnancy such as: alcohol, smoking, and marijuana, and it’s generally recommended to keep caffeine under about 200 mg a day (roughly one 12-ounce coffee).

You might also want to be mindful of certain foods that can carry higher risks, such as fish with high mercury levels, unpasteurized cheeses, raw or undercooked meats, and cold deli meats unless they’re heated first.

If you’re used to these things, be gentle with yourself as you adjust. Simple swaps like sparkling water in place of wine or herbal tea instead of your second cup of coffee can make the transition easier and still give you something to enjoy. If you are uncertain check with your doctor or check out this article from the Mayo Clinic.

10. Learn About Early Pregnancy Symptoms

It can be reassuring to know what’s normal in early pregnancy.

Common first-trimester symptoms include fatigue, nausea, mood swings, tender breasts, and bloating.

As uncomfortable as these are, they’re usually signs that your hormones are doing their job.

That said, listen to your body. If any symptom feels severe or out of the ordinary, like extreme nausea, dizziness, bleeding, or pain, contact your provider.

Having realistic expectations (and reassurance when needed) can make the first trimester feel a little less overwhelming.

Emotional Prep and Planning Ahead

11. Decide When (and Who) to Tell

The first person to share the news with is usually your partner, but after that, deciding when to tell others is a personal choice.

Some couples announce early, while others wait until the second trimester when the risk of miscarriage decreases.

There’s no right or wrong answer here. Do what feels best for you.

You might tell a few close friends or family members early for support and wait to share more widely later. This is your story; share it when you’re ready.

12. Start a Pregnancy Journal

Writing about your pregnancy can be a beautiful way to process the experience.

It’s not just about recording milestones; it’s about documenting the emotions, excitement, and even the uncertainty that come with this stage.

You can jot down how you found out, your first symptoms, what you’re craving, and the little moments that make you smile.

Journaling also helps you keep track of questions for your doctor and provides a safe outlet for your thoughts.

One day, it might be something special to share with your child; a little window into this season of your life.

13. Think About Finances and Maternity Leave

It might feel early, but it’s smart to start thinking ahead.

Review what your insurance covers for prenatal care, delivery, and hospital stays.

Begin budgeting for essentials like a crib, car seat, and baby clothes, plus recurring costs like diapers, wipes, and formula.

Check with your employer about maternity leave including: how much time is offered, whether it’s paid or unpaid, and whether your partner has family leave options.

Talk openly about how you’ll manage financially during that time, and make adjustments if needed.

Having a plan in place reduces stress later, especially in those last few weeks when you’re too busy or tired to think about paperwork and budgets.

14. Dream Up Your Support System

Start identifying the people and resources that will help you through pregnancy and postpartum.

That might include your partner, family, or friends, but also professionals like doulas, lactation consultants, or postpartum specialists.

If you’ll be returning to work, now’s also a good time to research childcare options for quality, cost, and convenience. Some centers have waitlists, so getting on one early can save you stress later.

Think about what setup feels best for your family: childcare, family help, or alternating schedules with your partner.

Support can also mean emotional support like someone to call when you’re having a tough day, a friend who drops off food, or a relative who can hold the baby while you nap.

Build your village early. You’ll be glad you did.

15. Take a Deep Breath, and Celebrate

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the new emotions and to-do lists that come with pregnancy.

There’s so much to think about, prepare for, and learn. But remember, you don’t need to do everything at once.

This is just the beginning. If you focus only on the tasks, you might miss the beauty of this moment.

Take time to celebrate, to rest your hand on your belly, dream about the baby growing inside you, and take it in that this is really happening.

Let's Wrap This Up!

Getting to know your baby starts now!

✔️Take this checklist one step at a time.

✔️You don’t have to get everything done today.

✔️Slow down and enjoy the moments when you can.

Remember: Pregnancy is just the beginning of your motherhood story.

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