Positive pregnancy test — now what?

Take a moment for yourself

Whether the test was planned or unexpected, a positive test changes something inside you. Before you start doing anything, take a moment for yourself. There’s no rush in the first weeks — the most important steps come a little later.

Step 1: register with a midwife

The most concrete thing you can do in the first days is register with a midwifery practice. You don’t need to wait for an ultrasound or a GP appointment — the test itself is enough.

At Femme Midwives in Den Haag you can register online. We call you within one working day to plan a first appointment, usually around 8–10 weeks of pregnancy.

Step 2: start taking folic acid

If you weren’t already taking folic acid before pregnancy, start now. The recommendation is 400 micrograms per day, up to week 10 of pregnancy. Folic acid reduces the risk of neural tube defects (such as spina bifida).

Folic acid is available at any chemist or drugstore. A standard supplement is enough.

Step 3: review your lifestyle

• Alcohol — the Dutch Health Council advises no alcohol during pregnancy.
• Smoking — stop if you can. Even cutting down helps. We support you in this.
• Medication — check with your GP or pharmacy whether your current medications are safe in pregnancy.
• Food & drink — avoid raw meat, soft cheese with unpasteurised milk, undercooked eggs, and limit caffeine.

Step 4: about telling people

Many couples wait until after the 12-week scan to share their news widely. That’s a personal choice. Telling a few people you trust earlier can also help — especially if you have early symptoms (tiredness, nausea) that affect your daily life.

What if you have complaints?

Mild bleeding, cramps, fatigue, nausea — all common in the first weeks. But always call us (or, if you’re not yet registered, your GP) if:

• You have heavy bleeding (more than spotting)
• You have severe abdominal pain on one side
• You feel dizzy or pass out
• You have a fever (38°C or higher)

What happens in the first appointment?

Your first appointment at Femme is around 8–10 weeks. We take roughly an hour to go through your medical history, family background, lifestyle, and any questions or worries you have. We also discuss prenatal screening (NIPT, 13- and 20-week scans). The first ultrasound is the term scan, around 10–12 weeks, which establishes your due date.

Summary: what to do after a positive test

1. Take a moment
2. Register with a midwife
3. Start folic acid
4. Adjust your lifestyle if needed
5. Decide when to tell people
6. Call us if you have worrying symptoms

You’re very welcome to register with Femme — we’ll guide you through every step.