Pregnant: what next?

See your doctor

Once you've done your own test, you'll need to see your GP. This isn't just to confirm that you are pregnant, your doctor will probably also want to give you a general check-up, and make sure that any medicines you may be taking are safe in pregnancy. She'll also make you an appointment for your booking-in visit (your first visit at your hospital), which usually happens between eight and 16 weeks of pregnancy.

Now's the time to find one what antenatal care choices are available to you. Depending on where you live and the services in your area you'll have a number of kinds of antenatal care to choose from. You may also start thinking about what kind of birth you'll want, as this may affect your antenatal care.

Clean up your act!

Now's the time to start cleaning up your lifestyle, too. It may be a slog at first, but you'll soon get used to the new, saintly you!

• If you haven't already done so, give up the cigarettes and cut down on alcohol.

• Don't take any medicines unless your doctor has prescribed them (and she knows you're pregnant).

• Take extra care at work – don't lift heavy loads, for example.

• Avoid vigorous exercise (or at least check with your doctor first).

• Eat a healthy and well-balanced diet with lots of fresh fruit and vegetables.

• Try to get lots of sleep – you'll feel better for it.

• Avoid stress.