What to Know After a Positive Pregnancy Test: Essential Next Steps
You took a pregnancy test and saw that positive result- two lines, a plus sign, or even the word “pregnant” staring back at you. Getting a positive pregnancy can be both exciting and overwhelming. Whether it’s your first time seeing it or not, you’re probably wondering: Now what? Here’s everything you need to know after a positive pregnancy test result, from confirming your pregnancy to preparing for what’s ahead.
Understanding Your Positive Pregnancy Test
How Home Pregnancy Tests Work
Home pregnancy tests are designed to detect the pregnancy hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) in your urine. This hormone is produced shortly after a fertilized egg implants into the uterine wall, which usually happens about six to twelve days after ovulation. The hormonal changes in a woman's body during early pregnancy are crucial for the functionality of these tests.
Most tests, especially those used at home, are fairly easy to use. An at home test can offer an accurate result if you follow the instructions correctly. Typically, most pregnancy tests display a positive result through a plus sign, two lines, or the word “pregnant” on the test strip.
Very sensitive pregnancy tests can detect hCG levels as low as 6.3 mIU/mL.
Most pregnancy tests are 98% to 99% accurate when taken after a missed period.
Be sure to check the expiration date and follow the instructions for the most accurate reading.
What Can Cause a False Positive Result?
Although false positive results are rare, they do happen. Here’s what might lead to one:
Expired tests or not following instructions.
Certain medical conditions like ovarian cysts or tumors can produce hCG.
Taking fertility medications or fertility drugs containing hCG can interfere with results.
A chemical pregnancy, where a fertilized egg implants but doesn’t develop properly, can cause a positive test before a second test shows negative.
Rarely, an incorrect reading could occur if the result appears too long after the test was taken.
If you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to confirm your pregnancy test results with a second test or a blood test.
Confirming Your Pregnancy
Getting a Blood Test to Confirm Your Pregnancy
While home pregnancy tests are convenient, a blood test can offer more precise information:
Blood tests detect hCG levels earlier and can show the exact amount of the pregnancy hormone in your body.
Your healthcare provider may recommend one if you’ve had a chemical pregnancy, ectopic pregnancy, or other complications in your medical history.
A healthcare professional may also advise a blood test if you’re taking fertility medications that could affect home pregnancy test results.
Preparing for Your Pregnancy Journey
Healthy Habits for Early Pregnancy
Once your pregnancy is confirmed, it’s time to start thinking about developing more healthy habits that support both you and your baby:
Take prenatal vitamins daily—especially ones that include folic acid, iron, calcium, and vitamin D.
Avoid raw fish, deli meats, unpasteurized cheeses, and cold cuts to reduce risk of infection.
Stay hydrated, eat balanced meals, and avoid smoking or alcohol.
Gentle exercise like yoga, planks, or walking can help manage healthy weight gain and high blood pressure.
Additionally, schedule your first appointment early in pregnancy, ideally before 10 weeks, to receive guidance on self-care and dietary recommendations.
Taking Care of Your Mental Health
The early stages of pregnancy can be emotionally overwhelming. This is totally normal and you may encounter your fair share of confusion, excitement, and anxiety as you adjust to the reality of your pregnancy. Some ways in which you can take care of yourself include:
Talking to a mental health professional if you feel anxious or unsure.
Trying simple tools like deep breathing, journaling, or meditation to calm your mind.
Self-care isn’t just bubble baths—it’s setting boundaries, resting, and asking for help when needed.
Planning for Your Pregnancy and Beyond
Now What? Essential Next Steps
After your positive results from a pregnancy test, there are some important next steps to consider:
Schedule your first prenatal appointment. Your healthcare provider will confirm the pregnancy and begin your antenatal care plan.
Start tracking your first trimester milestones.
Decide if you’d prefer to work with an ob-gyn or a midwife as your care provider.
Calculating Your Due Date and First Trimester Timeline
Figuring out how far along you are can feel confusing. Here's how it works:
Doctors calculate your due date from the first day of your last period, not from conception.
Most women conceive between days 11–21 of their cycle.
A due date calculator can help you estimate when your baby is due and where you are in your first trimester.
Finding the Right Care Provider for You
“Finding the right care provider for your pregnancy is a crucial decision that can impact your physical and mental health, as well as the health of your baby. Follow the below steps to help find the right care provider for you.”
Ask for Referrals: Start by asking friends, family, or your primary care physician for recommendations. Personal experiences can provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided.
Check Credentials: Ensure the care provider is board-certified in obstetrics and gynecology (OB-GYN) and has experience handling pregnancies similar to yours.
Verify Insurance Coverage: Confirm that the care provider is within your insurance network to avoid unexpected medical bills.
Schedule a Consultation: Meet with potential care providers to discuss your pregnancy, medical history, and any concerns. This will help you gauge their bedside manner and whether you feel comfortable with them.
Consider Their Approach to Care: Think about the type of care you want during your pregnancy. Whether you prefer a natural approach or a more medicalized one, make sure the care provider aligns with your values and preferences.
Some questions to ask during your consultation include:
What is your approach to prenatal care?
How do you handle high-risk pregnancies or complications?
What are your policies on labor and delivery?
How do you support breastfeeding and postpartum care?
What are your office hours and emergency procedures?
By doing your research and asking the right questions, you can find a care provider who meets your needs and provides you with the best possible care during your pregnancy.
Preparing for Parenthood
Learning About Pregnancy and Parenthood
Being pregnant is just the beginning, and pregnancy testing is an important first step.
Read books or follow reliable online resources about pregnancy, labor, and parenting.
You can sign up for a childbirth education class—many are now offered online.
Join a support group or online community to connect with other expectant parents.
Planning for the Future: Financial and Maternity Leave Considerations
As you prepare for the arrival of your baby, it’s also essential to think about your financial and maternity leave plans. Here are some things to consider:
Maternity Leave: Check with your employer to see if they offer paid maternity leave. If not, you may be eligible for unpaid leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA).
Disability Insurance: If you have a disability insurance policy, check to see if it covers maternity leave.
Savings: Start saving for your baby’s arrival by setting aside a portion of your income each month. Consider opening a savings account specifically for baby-related expenses.
Budgeting: Review your budget to see where you can cut back on expenses to make room for baby-related costs.
Health Insurance: Make sure you have adequate health insurance coverage for you and your baby. Check with your employer or insurance provider to see what options are available.
Baby Expenses: Start thinking about the expenses associated with having a baby, such as diapers, formula, and childcare costs.
Some questions to ask your employer or HR representative include:
What is our company’s maternity leave policy?
How much paid time off do I get for maternity leave?
Can I use my vacation or sick leave for maternity leave?
What are the requirements for taking maternity leave under FMLA?
Are there any other benefits or resources available to support new parents?
By planning ahead and considering your financial and maternity leave options, you can ensure a smooth transition into parenthood and focus on what matters most – your health and your baby’s well-being.
Final Thoughts
A positive pregnancy test is a big deal and it’s okay to feel all the feelings that come with it. Whether it’s excitement, nervousness, or a mix of both, taking the next steps one by one makes the journey more manageable.
From your first prenatal appointment to preparing for baby’s arrival, you’ve got this. Your body is doing something incredible, and every positive result is a reminder of the tiny human growing inside you.
