After receiving a positive pregnancy test, call an obstetrics-gynecology (OB-GYN) specialist to schedule your first appointment. Prenatal appointments with an OB-GYN will help you understand the specific needs of each trimester, supporting a healthy pregnancy. Here are some things to do following a positive pregnancy test:
Attend Prenatal Care Appointments
Prenatal care helps to prevent pregnancy complications and enhance healthy outcomes for you and your baby. Regular screenings allow for early detection and treatment of potential issues, while appropriate vaccinations protect both mother and baby from preventable illnesses. Specialists can also use advanced technology to determine the baby’s gender and detect the fetal heartbeat.
During your visits, the OB-GYN will monitor conditions such as high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, urinary tract infections, preeclampsia, and weight gain. They will also recommend a diet that meets the nutritional needs of your developing baby. These prenatal appointments make sure you receive the nutrition necessary for fetal development, including sufficient protein for growth and calcium for bone development. Prenatal vitamins are also beneficial for enhancing both fetal growth and overall health.
Assess Lifestyle Habits
A pregnancy specialist may recommend low-impact exercises such as stretching, walking, using fitness balls, and aerobics. These exercises help strengthen muscles and promote healthy weight gain. Exercise also improves cardiovascular fitness, eases constipation, and reduces back pain. Avoiding alcohol, tobacco, and illegal drugs can reduce the risks of preterm birth and central nervous system issues in the baby.
Browse Prenatal Classes
Prenatal classes help prepare you for labor, birth, and the postpartum period. During these classes, a professional teaches you about breathing techniques, birthing techniques, and relaxation strategies. They help you understand the stages of labor, pain management options, and what to expect during delivery. These classes may also cover topics such as breastfeeding and newborn care.
Monitor High-risk Pregnancy Signs
High-risk pregnancies may occur due to age, lifestyle habits, and underlying health conditions. Medical conditions that increase the likelihood of a high-risk pregnancy include diabetes, thyroid disorders, obesity, and heart conditions. Carrying multiples, such as twins or triplets, can also place you at higher risk. The risk level increases if you have a history of pregnancy complications like hypertension, miscarriage, preeclampsia, or preterm birth.
Signs that may indicate a high-risk pregnancy include severe abdominal pain, chest pain, dizziness, reduced or halted fetal movement, heart palpitations, and vomiting. Other warning signs are difficulty breathing, severe headaches, excessive facial swelling, and any signs of vaginal bleeding. If you exhibit any of these symptoms, your doctor may recommend more frequent appointments to monitor the health of your unborn child. Proper management and control of high-risk conditions can also help prevent future complications, such as stroke and cardiovascular diseases.
Consult a Pregnancy Specialist
Whether you are having a high-risk or normal pregnancy, receiving specialized care before, during, and after birth helps keep you and your baby healthy. Frequent prenatal care allows healthcare providers to provide personalized guidance on nutrition, exercise, and overall wellness. If you recently received a positive pregnancy report, consult a pregnancy specialist today to foster healthy growth and development.
