Damon Mcknight
Finding out you're pregnant can be an emotional time, and it can be tricky to know what to do first. It's a good idea to take a second pregnancy test, and then book an appointment with your local GP to confirm the pregnancy and get a check-up. Your GP can also advise on your maternity care options, and organise routine tests. You should also inform your midwife or specialist about any medication you are taking, and make sure it's safe for you and your baby. It's important to look after your health, so make sure your diet is high in folic acid, and avoid alcohol, cigarette smoke, and harmful foods such as soft cheeses and raw eggs and meat.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| First steps | Visit your GP to confirm pregnancy and have a check-up. |
| Pregnancy tests | Home pregnancy tests are available at chemists and pharmacies. |
| First pregnancy appointment | Book an appointment with your local GP around the 4–8-week mark. |
| Blood tests | Blood group, antibody testing (for Rhesus factor), and screening for infections. |
| Other tests | Urine test, ultrasound, and tests for vitamin D, iron, thyroid, and gestational diabetes. |
| Vaccines | Influenza, whooping cough (pertussis), and COVID-19 vaccines are recommended during pregnancy. |
| Medication | Consult your doctor or pharmacist to check if medications are safe during pregnancy. |
| Mental health | Reach out to your doctor or a support person if you experience symptoms of depression or anxiety. |
| Pregnancy care | Options include midwives, GPs, obstetricians, public or private hospitals, birth centres, or home births. |
| Maternity services | Medicare and private health funds may cover some costs of a private hospital stay. |
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What You'll Learn
Confirm pregnancy with a doctor
Confirming your pregnancy with a doctor is an important step to take as soon as you find out. In Australia, your choices for pregnancy care are usually linked to where you plan to give birth. During your pregnancy, you can be cared for by a midwife, GP or obstetrician, or a combination of these.
Your first step should be to book an appointment with your local GP or midwife to confirm your pregnancy and have a check-up. Your GP will often be the first health professional you see if you think you are pregnant. You may feel more comfortable seeing your own doctor, and it might be more affordable. They can advise you about your maternity care options and organise your first tests and investigations. Your local doctor can also refer you to a hospital if you are unsure if your pregnancy is high-risk.
At your first antenatal appointment, the doctor or midwife will confirm that you are pregnant. They will perform a detailed health check, including asking about your medical history and your family medical history. This will help them determine anything that may be relevant in managing your pregnancy. They will also discuss your pregnancy care options with you.
There are a range of tests available to confirm your pregnancy and monitor the baby's development in the womb. These include urine and blood tests, ultrasounds, and amniocentesis. Regular check-ups with your doctor or midwife are an important part of pregnancy care, and can help identify any potential problems early.
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Take prenatal vitamins
Taking prenatal vitamins is an important step in ensuring you and your baby are receiving the right nutrients. In Australia, it is advised that all pregnant women take folic acid, iodine, and vitamin D supplements. Folic acid helps prevent neural tube defects, iodine is needed for brain and nervous system development, and vitamin D helps ensure your baby has healthy bones. Omega-3 supplements are also recommended during pregnancy, as they support healthy brain, nerve, and eye development in your baby and may lower your risk of premature birth.
It is important to note that prenatal vitamins should not be a substitute for a balanced diet. While you do not need to "eat for two" during pregnancy, you do need to consume enough nutrients to meet both your needs and your baby's. A healthy diet is the best way to get the nutrients you need, but prenatal vitamins can help fill any gaps in your diet.
There are many prenatal vitamins available in Australia, including Elevit Pre-conception & Pregnancy Multivitamin, which is formulated with 19 essential vitamins and minerals, including folic acid, iron, and iodine. It is recommended to consult with your pharmacist, doctor, midwife, or dietitian before taking any vitamins or supplements to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your individual needs.
In addition to prenatal vitamins, it is important to have your blood checked early in your pregnancy. This is because some women have a blood type that is incompatible with the fetus, which can cause problems for future pregnancies. Your doctor can advise you on any necessary precautions or treatments.
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Avoid harmful foods and drinks
Pregnancy weakens your immune system, making you more susceptible to foodborne illnesses. To protect yourself and your baby, it is crucial to avoid certain foods and drinks that could harbour harmful bacteria or viruses. Here are some guidelines to follow:
- Avoid raw or undercooked meat and poultry as they can cause toxoplasmosis, a dangerous infection. Ensure that meat and poultry are cooked to a minimum temperature of 71°C and consumed hot.
- Refrain from consuming deli meats, soft cheeses, pâté, and soft-serve ice cream as these may be contaminated with Listeria, a harmful bacterium. Soft cheeses include Brie, Camembert, blue cheese, ricotta, and feta. It is safe to consume these cheeses if they have been cooked to at least 75°C and eaten immediately.
- Avoid raw or undercooked eggs to prevent Salmonella food poisoning. Make sure eggs are thoroughly cooked until the whites and yolks are solid. It is safe to consume commercially prepared products containing eggs, such as mayonnaise, as long as they are stored correctly.
- Limit your intake of large fish like shark, marlin, and swordfish due to their high mercury content, which can impact your baby's brain and nervous system development.
- Avoid smoked salmon, uncooked seafood, pre-cooked prawns, and sushi as these may also contain Listeria, although the risk is rare.
- Do not consume alcohol during pregnancy. Alcohol can harm your unborn baby, and there is no safe level of consumption.
- Limit caffeine intake to 1–2 cups of coffee or 4 cups of tea per day. Avoid double-shot espressos and caffeinated energy drinks.
- Be cautious with liver and liver products as they contain high levels of vitamin A (retinol), which can be harmful to your baby in large amounts.
- Limit high-fat and sugary foods and drinks to ensure a balanced and nutritious diet for you and your baby.
- Wash fruits, vegetables, and herbs thoroughly to remove traces of soil and dirt, as Toxoplasma may be present in soil.
It is important to note that correct food preparation, storage, and kitchen hygiene practices can help prevent food poisoning. Additionally, always consult with your healthcare provider or a qualified dietitian for personalised advice and to address any specific concerns or questions you may have.
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Exercise regularly
If you've just found out you're pregnant, it's important to see your doctor (GP) or midwife to start your antenatal care. They can advise you on maternity care options and ensure any medications you are taking are safe during pregnancy.
Exercising during pregnancy has many benefits, and it is safe to continue or start regular physical activity if you are healthy and your pregnancy is normal. Staying active can help you adapt to your changing shape and weight gain, and make it easier to cope with labour. It can also improve your physical and mental wellbeing, and reduce the risk of developing gestational diabetes. All pregnant women should aim to maintain a good level of fitness throughout pregnancy without trying to reach peak fitness.
If you get the go-ahead from your doctor, there are many exercises that are safe to do during pregnancy. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity every week. Walking, swimming, stationary bicycling, and modified yoga or Pilates are all recommended. Pelvic floor exercises are also beneficial during pregnancy, helping to strengthen the muscles that come under great strain during pregnancy and childbirth.
There are some precautions to take when exercising during pregnancy. Avoid becoming overheated, especially in the first trimester, and avoid exercising outside when it is very hot or humid. Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing and a well-fitted sports bra, and stay well-hydrated. Avoid jerky, bouncy, or high-impact motions that can increase your risk of injury, and don't exercise on your back after the first trimester. As your pregnancy progresses, you may need to slow down or modify your routine.
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Get emotional support
Pregnancy can be an emotionally sensitive time, and it is completely normal to feel stressed and uncertain during this period. It is important to seek support from a trusted source, such as a friend or family member. Talking with your doctor can also be an important step to getting the help you need. They can provide non-judgmental support, assessment, diagnosis, and ongoing care and treatment. They can also refer you to specialists such as a counsellor, psychologist or psychiatrist.
If you are worried about your emotional and mental well-being, you should see your doctor first, but it is also a good idea to speak with other health professionals like your midwife or obstetrician for information and advice. Your doctor can help you understand what is happening and discuss the best treatment options for you. These might include counselling, self-care strategies, medication, and peer support.
Pregnancy Help Australia also offers a National Helpline (1300 139 313) that is free, confidential, and open 7 days a week from 8 am-10 pm AEST. Their trained helpline support workers are there to listen without judgment and provide a safe space for you to discuss your needs, worries, or concerns.
Remember, it is important to get support as soon as possible if you are experiencing symptoms of antenatal anxiety or depression.
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Frequently asked questions
Confirm your pregnancy with a GP, who will then assess your health, organise routine antenatal tests, and give you information on where you can receive ongoing pregnancy care.
Symptoms of early pregnancy include missed periods, breast changes, tiredness, frequent urination, nausea, and vomiting (morning sickness).
Avoid raw meats and seafood, soft cheeses, and ensure salads are well washed to reduce the risk of an infection called Listeriosis.
Discuss any medication you are taking with your GP, midwife, or specialist, who can advise on the safest medication for you and the baby. Do not stop taking any medication without seeking advice first.
Contact your GP, midwife, or maternal and child health nurse as soon as possible. You can also call PANDA – Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Hotline on 1300 726 306.
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