I'm pregnant: what to do when you discover your pregnancy

Discovering a pregnancy is one of the most exciting moments in a woman's life. Those two lines on your pregnancy test can trigger a myriad of emotions: joy, excitement, anxiety, and even fear. But once you get over the first moment of surprise, you might ask yourself, "What do I do now?"

1. Find your medical reference point

The first thing to do is decide who will follow you during your pregnancy. You can opt for your trusted gynecologist, a midwife, or a clinic. The choice depends on your personal preferences and medical history. If you have had complications in previous pregnancies or have any medical conditions, you may need to see a specialized gynecologist. The important thing is to find a professional you feel comfortable with and trust.

2. The importance of folic acid

Folic acid is an essential vitamin during pregnancy. Helps prevent serious congenital malformations such as spina bifida. While it would be ideal to start taking it before conception, as soon as you find out you are pregnant, you should start incorporating it into your diet. The recommended dose is 400 micrograms per day, but in some situations a higher dosage may be necessary. Consult your doctor to determine the right dose for you.

3. Review your medications

If you are taking medications, now is the time to review them. Not all medications are safe during pregnancy. Some may have negative effects on the fetus or increase the risk of complications. Talk to your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter medications, supplements, and herbs. You may need to change your dosage or switch to an alternative medication.

4. Say goodbye to smoking and alcohol

Smoking and alcohol can have harmful effects on your pregnancy. Smoking can increase the risk of premature birth, low birth weight and other complications. Alcohol, even in small quantities, can increase the risk of developmental problems and fetal alcohol syndrome. If you're having trouble quitting, talk to your doctor. There are resources available to help you.

5. Precautions against toxoplasmosis

Toxoplasmosis is a disease caused by a parasite that can be especially dangerous during pregnancy. If you are not immune, you should take some precautions to protect yourself and your baby. Avoid eating raw or undercooked meats and always wash fruit and vegetables before consuming them. Also, avoid contact with cat feces. If you have a cat, have someone else clean the litter box or wear gloves and always wash your hands afterward.

6. Start scheduling prenatal visits

Prenatal visits are essential for monitoring the health of you and your baby. Usually, the first visit takes place around the 8th week of pregnancy. During this visit, your doctor will confirm your pregnancy, estimate your due date, and may perform some tests. Thereafter, visits will become more frequent as the pregnancy progresses. Be sure to write down any questions you have so you can discuss them with your doctor during visits.

7. Consider your lifestyle and diet

A balanced diet is essential during pregnancy. Be sure to eat a variety of nutrient-dense foods, such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Avoid foods high in saturated fats, added sugars and salt. Also, drink plenty of water and limit caffeine. If you have questions about your diet or if you have special dietary needs, consider consulting a nutritionist.

8. Inform your employer

If you work, you may want to tell your employer about your pregnancy, especially if your job involves physical activity or exposure to chemicals. This will allow you to discuss any adjustments needed to ensure your safety and that of your baby.

9. Think about the future

Now that you know you are expecting a baby, you may start thinking about where you would like to give birth, whether in a hospital, a maternity home or at home. You may also want to start considering options for prenatal classes, such as pregnancy yoga classes or childbirth preparation classes.

10. Surround yourself with support

Pregnancy can be an exciting but also stressful time. Surround yourself with loved ones, friends and family who can offer you support and understanding. Also consider joining a support group for moms-to-be, where you can share your experiences and learn from other women who are going through the same adventure.