I have taken a pregnancy test a couple of times before, but things turned out different this time around. I didn’t wait for three minutes when I saw the color moving across the kit’s window- they were two pink lines.

Like two pink lines. No way! I double-checked the instructions, and it was right there; two lines mean positive while one line means negative.

I rushed down to a nearby store at the corner and bought three more kits. I needed to be sure that the kit wasn’t faulty and confirm what I had witnessed earlier. I waited for an hour or two until I had to pee again, but there it was again, two pink lines. Does it mean I’m pregnant, or what exactly do two pink lines mean?

How to Read a Pregnancy Test: Are You Pregnant?

Sure, interpreting a pregnancy test result can sometimes feel like a science experiment. It stirs lots of emotions and arose surprise, joy, and anxiety all at once. But as confused as you are, two pink lines mean you’re pregnant. Congratulations... you are going to be a mother.

In this article, we’re going to discuss ways to prepare after realizing you’re pregnant and what you need to do so you can get your pregnancy off to the best start:

Expectations and Proper Preparations

From the first trimester, you can expect your body and baby to change week by week. Thus, you have to make proper preparations such as:

Appointment for prenatal care

It would be best if you start prenatal care immediately to ensure a healthy pregnancy. During the first appointment, the gynecologist will evaluate your reproductive history; carry out blood and urine tests and an ultrasound to date the pregnancy. Besides, you might be asked about any medications that you are taking. This is to determine if the medications are safe to use during pregnancy.

Taking prenatal vitamins 

Pregnant women require more calcium, iron, and folate to promote the baby’s development and mom’s well-being. Therefore, you should start taking prenatal that contains vitamins and minerals based on the OBGYN advice.

Eating healthy

A healthy diet is essential for baby growth. Fruits, whole grains, lean meats, and veggies are all excellent choices. But, you should avoid cold cuts, undercooked meat, and fish containing mercury like tuna and swordfish since they can be harmful during pregnancy.

Find support 

Whether it’s talking to friends or family, support is a must-have for anyone pregnant. So much will change, and you might have some fears, and surrounding yourself with friends and family allows you to talk things through.

Sensible Lifestyle Changes

When one is pregnant, everyday tasks can be tiring or even unsafe. Hence, you have to make some lifestyle changes, including:

Adjusting work schedules

Sometimes, being pregnant may feel like it’s a full-time job. That becomes a problem if you already have a full-time job. So, you should adjust your working schedules to avoid rush hours, sometimes work from home, or in short, flexible intervals.

Scheduled naps

Insomnia is common during the first trimester. You should set up good sleeping habits to ensure you get enough rest. That includes trying to go to bed at the same time each night and having a routine that helps you unwind, such as reading a book or taking a warm, soothing bath.

Adjusting exercise routines

Staying active can help in managing mood swings, getting better sleep, and easing pregnancy pains. But, moderation and consistency are essential to safe prenatal exercises. Typically, in the first trimester, the doctor might advise you to adjust your routine to 75% of your usual one. The exercises shouldn’t involve potential falls, abdominal twists, or extreme temperatures.

Skipping caffeine

Fatigue is a very real and common issue in pregnancy, particularly during the first trimester. And sometimes, you’ll yearn for a cup of coffee or a can of energy drink. However, since caffeinated drinks aren’t recommended during pregnancies, you need to take naturally energizing foods such as peanuts and avocado.

Changing up chores

Other things you have to take off my to-do list included:

• Using harsh chemicals such as paints, solvents, or pesticides
• Standing for long periods
• Lifting heavy luggage

Enjoy the Pregnancy

After all, it’s only nine months. Although the end of pregnancy seems really far away, it’ll arrive more quickly than you anticipate. Planning and preparing for the baby a little bit each month can help you enjoy the journey and prevent any panicky feelings.