A positive pregnancy test should prompt you to call your doctor to schedule an appointment. While this visit likely won't happen until around 7-10 weeks, depending on your personal history and situation, it is a good idea to get the appointment on the books so you are ready to go when the time is right.
If you are surprised by the pregnancy and have prior medical conditions, or are taking medication, you'll want to tell your caregiver right away in case adjustments need to happen. In these cases, you may need an appointment right away, so be sure to mention any extenuating circumstances when you call to make your appointment. Even over-the-counter medication like ibuprofen can be detrimental to a healthy pregnancy. Hence, you need your caregiver to weigh in on your current medication regime as soon as possible to avoid complications in the future.
If you have concerns or feel something isn't right, you should also contact your doctor for a sooner appointment. In the meantime, you can learn more about your pregnancy and what is happening to you and your little one by doing some research and getting the lay of the land. A great resource we like is the book I'm Pregnant! A Week-By-Week Guide From Conception to Birth. This book is a good source of information to help you understand what symptoms are normal and when you should be concerned. Many women find it comforting to know what is happening and what to expect for the next nine months. This book and several others are better resources than most websites and mommy blogs for accurate information you can trust. We recommend avoiding personal blogs as the information could be misleading, inaccurate, or cause unnecessary stress. Also, it is never a good idea to Dr. Google your symptoms; if you have concerns, it is best to discuss them with your doctor, who knows your situation, instead of a website with general information that may not apply to you.
If you are over 35, you'll likely need to see your doctor sooner and more frequently than your younger counterparts. As with many things, age increases the odds of complications during pregnancy, and your doctor will want to keep a closer eye on your progress. There is no need to stress this additional attention or the phrase “geriatric pregnancy,” as many women have a normal and healthy pregnancy later in their childbearing years. Think of it as an opportunity to see more ultrasound images of your growing baby, a chance to ask more questions, and increased peace of mind brought about by more frequent check-ins.
By now, you should be taking your prenatal vitamins regularly. In addition to these multivitamins, a plant-based DHA Spectrum Prenatal DHA will help ensure that the baby receives essential omega-3 fatty acids during critical points in development. Your doctor will be able to advise you on what supplements are right for your pregnancy. Remember to ask for a prescription for your multi-vitamin, as this can often help defray some of the costs related to this necessary pregnancy supplement.
Reference Sources
- American Pregnancy - 4 Weeks Pregnant
- WebMD - Early Symptoms of Pregnancy
- Mayo Clinic - 1st Trimester Visits