There Are Two Lines! What Do I Do Now?
For better or for worse, you just saw those undeniable little double red lines. NOW WHAT? Life as we know it is about to change forever!
First of all, take a deep breath. There's no wrong way to feel right now. Jumping up and down for joy, terror, excitement, tears, worry, elation...any of these would be within the range of normal. If you asked ten different people what their first reaction was when they found out they were pregnant, you would probably get ten different answers.
I would like to encourage you: people have been having babies as long as there have been people. But your baby? This is the only time you've personally had one, so it's okay for you to make as much or as little fuss as you want. You already know to take vitamins and start pinning gender reveal ideas, but what else should you think about doing at this stage? Here are some possible first steps to take once you discover that you are pregnant.
1. Decide when (and to whom) you will announce the news.
You don't owe anyone an announcement - decide for yourself when and how you will share your pregnancy news. Some parents prefer to wait until after they have reached the second trimester. This is due to the fact that statistically, miscarriages may be more likely to happen in the earliest weeks of pregnancy. However, other parents prefer for their baby to be celebrated right away, no matter what may happen. It's up to you.
If you want to be the one to announce the news first on social media, be sure to mention this to any close friends and relatives you tell in person, so they don't let it slip before you're ready.
2. Select a care provider
Some doctors and midwives book up early, so it's a good idea to select one sooner rather than later. Find out if your insurance has any limitations on what providers you can see, and from there you can look at other important factors such as: whether you prefer a male or female; what type of bedside manner you prefer; if they are supportive of and experienced with the type of birth that you prefer to have; and if they deliver at your chosen location.
If you reach out to your friends, doula, or social media to recommend a provider, be sure to mention what qualities you are looking for in that person, since everyone may have enjoyed their providers for all different reasons.
3. Select a birth location
There are basically three options in Wichita and the surrounding areas: hospital, home, or birth center. You may already know exactly what you want, or you may need to take some time to research your options, ask lots of questions, and discuss with your partner.
There are two birth centers, two hospitals, and several home birth midwives in the area. You can visit the facilities and meet the providers, asking any questions you need to help you feel confident about your choice.
4. Find your people
Everyone needs supportive people in their life, but pregnancy and parenting have some pretty specific challenges. Who can you go to for advice and support as you go through the process of growing a human and then raising them? Think about joining a mom group, or a breastfeeding group, so that you are already a part of something you feel comfortable with when the time comes that you need support from them. Interview pediatricians and scout out the best daycares close to your workplace.
5. Hire your doula
If possible, you will want to secure your doula earlier on so that you can benefit from her knowledge and resources throughout your whole pregnancy, not just the birth or postpartum. Your doula can help you find unbiased sources for research, talk you through making decisions, and knows all the best heartburn and leg cramp fixes. When the time comes to go into labor and bring home baby, she'll be right there to support you through it all with professionalism and the utmost care. Schedule your consultation with Wichita Doula.