I Just Found Out I’m Pregnant. Now What?

First, Feel It All

There is no “right” reaction to a positive test. You might cry, laugh, or stand frozen staring at that little stick. You might make a cup of tea and then forget to drink it. It’s all normal.

Pregnancy brings a swirl of emotions, especially in these early days when nothing looks different yet but everything feels different. Some moms feel an instant bond. Others feel distant or unsure. Hormones stir the pot, too. Trust that your feelings are valid - they don’t mean you’ll be a better or worse mom. Just let them move through you.

‍Next, Some Gentle First Steps

1. Book Your First Gynae Appointment

Aim for your first scan around 7 to 9 weeks pregnant. Earlier than that can sometimes be too soon to see or hear much and only causes unnecessary worry. Not sure how far along you are? Just ask ChatGPT - share the first day of your last period and it’ll help you work out your estimated due date and how many weeks along you might be.

Tip: If you don’t have a gynae yet, ask other moms you trust, check local mom groups, or even your pharmacy. South Africa has an incredible network of supportive women.

2. Start Taking a Prenatal Vitamin

If you aren’t already taking folic acid, start now – 400-800mcg daily is the sweet spot for most women. This helps your baby’s brain and spine develop in the very earliest weeks, often before you even know you’re pregnant. You can also start this supplement as soon as you stop your birth control in preparation.

Need help choosing the right one? Read our guide to the best prenatal vitamins in South Africa - it breaks down what to look for and where to find trusted options locally.

3. Decide Who to Tell - and When

There’s no rule here. Some people tell their partner, parents, or best friend right away for support. Others wait until after the first scan. Choose what feels right and safe for you. There’s no rush.

4. Pay Attention to Your Body - and Your Plate

Tender breasts, mild cramps, nausea, mood swings - all normal. But if you have severe pain or bleeding, call your doctor right away. Don’t Google yourself into a panic - get clear advice from a pro.

While you’re looking after your body, it’s also good to know what foods to skip for now.

Some everyday foods can carry bacteria or chemicals that aren’t safe during pregnancy - but you don’t have to memorise it all.

Download our “The Safe Plate: What to Skip While Pregnant” guide - a simple, local checklist of what to avoid and why, so you can eat well and worry less. Stick it on your fridge or share it with your partner. It’s one less thing to overthink.‍

5. Start a Simple Pregnancy Folder

It doesn’t have to be fancy - a notebook, a Google Drive, or a folder in your handbag. Keep scan dates, medical aid details, your doctor’s number, and a running list of questions you want to ask. Feeling a bit organised can calm the swirl.

Real Talk: You Don’t Have to Love Every Second

Instagram says pregnancy is all glowing skin and cute bump pics. Sometimes it is. Sometimes it’s nausea, bloating, or crying over burnt toast. You’re not failing if you don’t love every minute. You’re human - and you’re already doing your best. Be gentle with yourself.

You’ve Got This - And You’re Not Alone

At Raising & Rising, we believe motherhood starts now - not when you give birth, but the moment you start caring for this tiny, growing life. If you’re here, newly pregnant and wondering what comes next, know this: you’re exactly where you need to be.

Save this, share it with a friend, and come back whenever you need real advice, gentle reminders, or just a little voice that says: You can do this. You already are.