When you take a pregnancy test and it comes up positive, it’s normal to have a flurry of emotions. If you were trying to conceive, this could be an exciting experience, but it can also be scary, especially if the news came as a bit of a surprise.

No matter how you’re feeling, here’s what you need to do now that you’ve taken the test and gotten a positive result.

Find an OB-GYN

The very first thing you should do when you find out you’re pregnant is to schedule an appointment with an obstetrician-gynecologist (OB-GYN).

An OB-GYN is a medical doctor who specializes in women’s reproductive systems, pregnancy, and childbirth. They’ll be the primary provider overseeing your care throughout your pregnancy and delivery.

Your OB-GYN will be able to provide you with all the information you need about what to expect during your pregnancy, what foods you might want to avoid, and what lifestyle changes you might need to make.

They’ll also be able to answer any questions you might have about the pregnancy test and the results.

Start Taking Prenatal Vitamins

Once you’ve scheduled your first appointment with your OB-GYN, it’s time to start taking prenatal vitamins. Prenatal vitamins are a combination of vitamins and minerals that specifically cater to the needs of a pregnant woman’s body.

They help ensure the developing baby gets all the necessary nutrients, and they help prevent birth defects that can result from a lack of certain vitamins.

Your OB-GYN will be able to recommend a prenatal vitamin that is right for you.

Cut Out Alcohol and Tobacco

If you smoke or drink alcohol, it’s time to stop. Both can be harmful to your baby’s development.

Alcohol consumption can lead to Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, a condition that can cause serious growth and development problems in a child. Cigarette smoke contains harmful chemicals that can cause a host of problems, too.

Make Dietary Changes

While you’re pregnant, it’s essential to eat a healthy, balanced diet that is rich in nutrients that benefit both you and your growing baby.

Your OB-GYN can provide you with a list of foods that are particularly beneficial during pregnancy and foods that you should avoid. In general, you should aim to eat as many fresh fruits and vegetables as possible, lean protein, whole grains, and healthy fats.

Take it Easy

Pregnancy takes a lot out of a woman’s body. You might feel tired, bloated, and nauseous during the first trimester, while the second and third trimesters are often characterized by back pain, swollen feet, and other issues.

Make sure to rest when needed and listen to your body when it tells you to slow down.

Prepare for Labor and Delivery

Labor and delivery can sound scary, but the more you know about the process, the more confident you’ll be when the big day arrives. Take a childbirth class, attend parenting seminars, and read up on everything you can about the birthing process.

Communicate with Your Partner

If you’re in a relationship, now is the time to start communicating more than ever before. You might be feeling nervous, excited, scared, or a combination of all three.

Talk to your partner and keep them involved in everything you’re learning about your pregnancy. This can be an exciting time for both of you, and communication is key to making sure you’re on the same page.

Relax and Enjoy the Ride

Finally, remember that pregnancy is a journey, and it can be an amazing one. Don’t spend too much time worrying about what’s to come. Instead, relax and enjoy the ride.

Get excited about the new life you’re bringing into the world, and know that there will be plenty of people around you to help you along the way.