Positive pregnancy test: 7 things to do in the first week

Two lines on the test, and you may feel thrilled and anxious at once, not sure where to start. The good news is that you do not have to do everything today. Here are seven things worth doing in the first week after a positive pregnancy test, drawn from WHO and NHS guidance.

1. Confirm the result and work out your dates

The NHS says a positive result is almost certainly right if you followed the instructions. If the second line is faint, test again in two or three days. Then use the first day of your last period to estimate how many weeks you are and your due date with our due date calculator. That tells you when to book your first appointment.

2. Book your first antenatal appointment

WHO recommends the first antenatal contact within the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, and at least eight contacts in total. The first visit usually includes:

• An ultrasound to confirm the pregnancy is in the womb, how many babies, and the heartbeat once it is visible.
• Questions about your health history, medicines and any previous pregnancies.
• Blood and urine tests as needed.

A home test only shows that hCG is present, not where the pregnancy is, so do not skip this visit.

3. Ask about folic acid and iron

The NHS advises 400 micrograms of folic acid a day from before conception until week 12; if you have not been taking it, start as soon as you know you are pregnant. WHO recommends daily iron and folic acid for pregnant women. Some people need a higher dose on medical advice, so ask your doctor what is right for you rather than buying several products at once. Our prenatal vitamins list is just a reference for prices and brands.

4. Review your medicines and daily habits

• Take a list of every medicine and supplement you use to your appointment. Do not stop medication for a long-term condition without asking your doctor.
• Stop smoking and avoid alcohol.
• Ask your doctor how much coffee and tea is fine.
• Cook food thoroughly and wash your hands well after handling raw meat.

5. Know the signs that cannot wait

Do not wait for your appointment if you have:

• Moderate to heavy vaginal bleeding, or bleeding with tummy pain or fever.
• Pain low down on one side, shoulder tip pain, dizziness or fainting.
• Vomiting so severe you cannot keep food or fluids down for 24 hours.

The NHS notes that ectopic pregnancy symptoms usually appear between weeks 4 and 12, and it is a medical emergency.

6. Look after your sleep and sickness

Tiredness and nausea are very common in the first 12 weeks. Eat small meals often, sip water, and rest when you can. According to the NHS, sickness usually eases by around weeks 16 to 20. If it is severe, tell your doctor rather than treating it yourself.

7. Prepare gradually; no need to rush shopping

In the early months you only need a few things: loose, breathable clothes and a soft, well-fitting bra as your breasts change. Maternity wear, bump support, pregnancy pillows and newborn essentials can come later, from mid-pregnancy. Buy for real needs and on your doctor's advice, not because of adverts.

If you are not ready or unsure about continuing the pregnancy, the NHS encourages talking confidentially with a health professional about all your options.

It also helps to start a simple notes page on your phone: the date of your last period, your test date, questions for your doctor and any symptoms. Bring it to every visit. Many people find this makes the first appointments calmer and quicker, and it means nothing important gets forgotten when you are tired or nervous.

Based on WHO and NHS guidance; not a substitute for advice from your antenatal doctor.