Figuring out what next steps look like after finding out you’re pregnant can feel overwhelming and unclear.  

This is a comprehensive, straight forward list of things you should and shouldn’t do now that you’re pregnant. No guessing, no endless searches that give conflicting information, just easy next steps you can trust. 

Please note: this article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a healthcare professional for medical concerns or emergencies. 

6 Do’s and Don’ts When You Find Out You’re Pregnant. 

What to do: 

1. Book an appointment to confirm pregnancy and next steps. 

It’s important to see a reliable obstetrician–gynecologist (OBGYN) or certified nurse midwife as early as possible to get the pregnancy care you need to have a healthy pregnancy.  

Most providers recommend scheduling your first appointment between 8 and 12 weeks of pregnancy (6 to 10 weeks after your last menstrual period).  

At your appointment they will: 

• Confirm the viability of your pregnancy by ultrasound and/or bloodwork 
• Review your medical history 
• Take note of all current medications and supplements 
• Give a physical examination 
• Do blood tests as needed 
• Discuss prenatal vitamins and lifestyle changes 
• Make a plan for prenatal care 

Our Medical Providers at Marisol Health care about your health and safety and are here for you throughout your entire pregnancy.  

We have certified nurse midwives and women’s health nurse practitioners who are seeing our patients in our clinics, however see an OBGYN at another location, if needed. 

2. Start taking a prenatal vitamin right away 

No matter what pregnancy option you might be considering, it’s important to begin taking prenatal vitamins to bridge nutritional gaps. 

There are a lot of prenatal vitamins out there. Look for a prenatal that includes:  

• Folic acid (make sure it is 400-800 mcg daily) – helps prevent birth defects 
• Iron (27mg) – supports increased blood volume 
• Calcium and Vitamin D (1,000 mg and 600 IU) – promotes strong bones and immune system 
• DHA (200mg) – supports brain development 

Feel free to bring in your prenatal vitamins into your first appointment, if you have any questions for our medical provider. 

3. Review your medications and everyday products 

When you meet with your healthcare provider, you will want to inform them about all medications and supplements you are taking and any allergies you are aware of. During your appointment, you will also want to tell them your medical history. 

There are some common over the counter medications and skin care products you may not be able to use while pregnant. Take an inventory of all products and medications you use regularly and share them with your healthcare provider so you can make a plan together on what is safe for you while pregnant. 

4. Confirm your insurance  

Check with your insurance to confirm your policy includes coverage for prenatal care and birth.   

Our Marisol Health team is here to assist you in connecting to Medicaid insurance. Colorado Medicaid (Health First Colorado) provides comprehensive, free prenatal care, delivery, and 12 months of postpartum coverage. Coverage includes doctor visits, ultrasounds, prenatal vitamins, and mental health services. Eligibility is based on income, and coverage now includes undocumented individuals through the Cover All Coloradans program.  

5. Take care of yourself 

It’s important to take care of your mental and physical health during pregnancy.  

Implement health lifestyles like:  

• Get plenty of rest and sleep 
• Know when to not push yourself beyond your limits 
• Limit stress  
• Incorporate regular light exercise (at least 30 minutes 5 days a week) 
• Maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated (more on this below) 
• Take care of your mental health 

6. Create your emotional support system 

Pregnancy is a beautiful and emotional journey. It’s important to surround yourself with people you trust to be open and honest with. This might look like your partner, a close friend, your family, or a group of other pregnant women. Remember, it’s okay to tell people what you need. Chances are they want to be of support but aren’t sure how. 

Connecting with women who are on the same journey as you can be especially comforting because they know what you’re going through.  

What NOT to do: 

1. Smoke and vape 

If you smoke cigarettes, marijuana, or use a vape, it’s really important to quit. Smoking decreases blood flow, which results in less oxygen getting to your baby. It also increases the risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).  

If your partner or anyone else who lives with you smokes, their smoke can affect you and your baby. Additionally, that can make it even harder for you to quit. It’s important to have a conversation with them about safety moving forward. 

2. Drink alcohol 

Any kind and amount of alcohol is not safe during pregnancy and may cause birth defects and lifelong brain damage. 

Quitting smoking and drinking can be hard, but it is possible. Your Marisol Health healthcare provider can help play an important role in helping you quit. 

3. Drink excessive caffeine  

Limiting caffeine and added sugars are important for the health of your pregnancy. Experts recommend drinking no more than 200 milligrams of caffeine each day. That’s about two 8 ounce cups of coffee. 

5. Eat certain foods 

You should avoid certain foods that may make you sick. Pregnant women are 10 times more likely to get sick from a bacteria called Listeria. 

Avoid these foods:  

• raw fish, such as sushi and ceviche 
• undercooked seafood, eggs, meat, and poultry 
• cold deli meats (like sandwich meats) and hot dogs 
• unpasteurized milk and cheeses 
• refrigerated meat spreads  
• smoked seafood 
• unwashed fruits and vegetables 

Talk to your medical provider about any other foods you should avoid. 

6. Use hot tubs, take hot baths, use saunas, or hot yoga classes 

These sound like the perfect way to relax while pregnant, but they aren’t safe. A high body temperature can harm fetal development and potentially lead to neural tube defects  

Not all is at a loss though! You can still put your feet in the hot tub and take a warm (not too hot) bath.  

Marisol Health does not provide or refer for abortions. 

 Change your mind after taking the abortion pill? It might not be too late. Support is available 24/7. Please contact the Abortion Pill Reversal Hotline at 1-877-558-0333 or visit www.abortionpillreversal.com.”  

If you are feeling suicidal or are thinking about harming yourself or someone else, please seek help immediately: Call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org. 

If you are in immediate danger or need emergency help, call 911.