You’re pregnant... Now what?

Written by: Tina Bitangcol

Congratulations! You just saw those two magical lines on a test, and now you’re wondering... what’s next?

Whether you’re over-the-moon excited or staring at that stick in disbelief, take a big breath.

You’ve got this, and I’m here to help guide you through your first steps into this wild adventure called pregnancy.

Step 1: Breathe

Seriously, inhale. Exhale. It’s a big moment, and you’re allowed to feel all the feels. Maybe you’ve been dreaming of this day, or maybe it’s caught you completely off guard. Either way, you’ve just unlocked a whole new chapter, and it’s OK to take it one page at a time.

Step 2: To Tell or Not to Tell

You might’ve heard you should wait until a certain week to share the news, but honestly? That’s entirely up to you. If it feels right, go ahead and tell someone you trust. Whether it’s your partner, a bestie, or your mom, sharing can help make it real and give you someone to lean on if you need support.

If you’re worried about miscarriage (and let’s talk about it, because it’s real for one in four women), early support can be invaluable. Most miscarriages happen in the first trimester, often due to chromosomal issues beyond your control. It’s nothing you did or didn’t do. 

Step 3: Choose Your Healthcare Provider

It might seem early, but finding the right healthcare provider is a must. You’ll be spending a lot of time together, so it’s worth choosing someone who matches your vibe. Here’s a quick rundown:

Midwives: Perfect for low-risk pregnancies and if you want a more personalized, holistic approach. They’re great with breastfeeding support and can deliver in birth centres, hospitals, or even at home.

OB-GYNs: Experts in high-risk pregnancies, surgeries, and all things medical. They only deliver in hospitals but are there for anything complex that might come up.

Family Doctors: The middle ground. They care for your whole family and focus on a more natural, family-centred approach to childbirth.

Make sure to schedule your first prenatal appointment ASAP, and bring a list of questions like:

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• What foods should I avoid?
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• Can I exercise, travel, or dye my hair?
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• How much weight should I gain?
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• What are your rates for c-sections, forceps, or vacuum deliveries?
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• Who will deliver my baby?
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(Pro tip: Keep a running list of questions on your phone – pregnancy brain is real!)

Step 4: Work, Leave, and Childcare

While you don’t have to tell your employer just yet, it’s smart to review maternity leave policies. Depending on where you live, maternity benefits can vary a lot. In Canada, you get a year of paid leave (woohoo!).

If you think you’ll need childcare after the baby arrives, now’s a good time to start looking. Quality care can have waitlists, so early planning is your friend.

Step 5: Cut Out the No-Gos

Some things just don’t mix with pregnancy. Here’s what to nix:

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• Alcohol: There’s no safe amount, so it’s best to skip it.
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• Tobacco: If quitting feels impossible, reducing your intake can still benefit your baby.
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• Cannabis and drugs: These can lead to birth complications and developmental issues.
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• Excess caffeine: Limit it to 200mg a day (about two cups of coffee).
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And don’t forget secondhand smoke – it’s time for everyone to take it outside.

Step 6: Start Prenatal Vitamins

Growing a tiny human is hard work! A daily prenatal vitamin ensures you’re getting key nutrients, especially folic acid (at least 400 mcg) to prevent neural tube defects. Bonus: Vitamins can help fill the  gaps if morning sickness makes eating feel impossible.

Step 7: Plan for the Unexpected

Pregnancy can throw some curveballs – morning sickness, fatigue, and countless medical appointments. It’s OK to need a nap (or ten) and time off work. 

Prepare for the possibility of extra rest, and be gentle with yourself.

Step 8: Yes, You Can Still Have Coffee

Good news for caffeine lovers: You don’t have to give it up entirely! Stick to 200mg or less per day and remember that tea, soda, chocolate, and even gum can sneak in some extra caffeine.

Step 9: Build Your Support System

Lean on your people. Whether it’s your partner, friends, family, or an online community, having a solid support system makes all the difference. Pregnancy is a big deal – you shouldn’t have to go it alone.

Remember, every pregnancy is unique. What matters most is finding what works for you and your baby. 

Tina is a nurse specializing in labor and delivery since 2012, as well as a certified breastfeeding specialist and perinatal nurse. As a mom of four, she understands the joys and challenges of pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum. Through her work at the bedside and as Mama Nurse Tina (@mama_nurse_tina) on social media, she shares evidence-based advice with humor and compassion to empower families worldwide. Reprinted with permission from bumptolatch.squarespace.com.

See our realted articles:

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• Pregnancy Month by Month
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• And Baby Makes Three
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• Pregnancy Pains: Managing the Aches, Pains, and Discomfort 
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