Finding out that you're pregnant

I've had a positive pregnancy test. What do I do now?

Most women choose to go and see their doctor/midwife soon after they’ve had a positive pregnancy test. That way you get advice and support right from the start, and you will be referred promptly for your first scan. If the hospital scan department is busy, getting your referral in early means there is more chance of getting a scan at the best time.

If you haven’t already, start taking a 400mcg supplement of folic acid everyday.

I think I got pregnant on a night when I was very drunk. How will this affect the baby?

Firstly, you should stop worrying. It’s not possible to put the clock back and stress won’t help you or your pregnancy. It’s very unlikely that you would have done any lasting harm in a one-off incident.

You should now avoid alcohol. If this is a problem, seek help. See our Pregnancy and alcohol page for more information. As your baby’s development will be assessed using ultrasound scanning, you will soon be able to get further reassurance.

I was on the pill when I became pregnant, should I stop taking it?

If you became pregnant while you were on the pill, don’t worry, but stop taking it as soon as you have taken the pregnancy tests and are sure you are pregnant. It will not have harmed your baby.

If you became pregnant while using the contraceptive intrauterine device (IUD), tell your doctor or midwife as soon as possible. They can advise you whether the IUD should be taken out or left in place.

I came off the pill and became pregnant before having a 'real' period. Is the baby at risk?

No. Doctors usually advise having one normal period following the withdrawal period because it helps make it easier to date the pregnancy and your due date. However, scans can also help to do this, and there is no evidence to suggest that the baby will have been harmed in any way.

Help! This wasn't planned and I am worried about telling my partner.

First, you need to get your own thoughts in order, especially if you are worried about what your partner will say. It may help you to confide in a close friend or talk to a nurse at your family planning clinic or doctor’s surgery.

Most women agree that it’s best not to put off the moment and to tell your partner early on. His first reaction may not reflect what he really feels – like you, he will be in shock. Try to give him some time to let the news sink in. If you think he might react angrily, tell him in a public place, such as a café or restaurant.