Just Got a Positive Test? First Steps for What Comes Next

You saw the second line. Now what?

Whether you’re crying, smiling, staring blankly at the test, or feeling all of that at once, just know this: whatever you’re feeling is okay.

A positive pregnancy test doesn’t come with a script. There’s no one way to react, and no rulebook for what to do next. But if you’re standing in that space between “I think I’m pregnant” and “what now?”, we’re here to walk beside you.

Take a breath and let it sink in

You don’t have to do anything this second. Let yourself pause. Let it land.

This moment matters – whether it’s one you’ve been dreaming of or one you didn’t expect. Whether you feel sure or stunned, hopeful or hesitant – every feeling is valid. Let yourself sit with it before rushing to the next thing.

Still not sure if it’s real? It’s okay to test again

If you’re staring at a faint line or wondering if you imagined it, it’s completely normal to want a second look.

Just make sure your first test result showed up within the time window and followed the instructions. If it did, and the line’s visible. It’s likely accurate. But if it was faint, taken late in the day, or unclear, you can retest in a day or two using first morning urine for extra reassurance.

Still feel unsure? You’re not alone. Many early positives come with questions. You might find clarity in our guide on common pregnancy test mistakes, or in this deeper look at faint lines vs evaporation lines.

Thinking about your first appointment? There’s no rush

You might feel like you need to book something immediately, but most providers schedule your first prenatal visit around 8 to 10 weeks after your last period.

If you’re using fertility support or have specific health concerns, checking in earlier is totally fine. But there’s no race here. You’re allowed to take your time. What matters most is that you’re honoring your own pace, whatever that looks like.

Starting gentle pregnancy care can feel grounding

You don’t need a whole new routine overnight. Start small.

If you haven’t already, begin taking a prenatal vitamin with folate. Keep drinking water. Rest when you can. And try to avoid known risks like alcohol, smoking, or any medications that aren’t pregnancy-safe.

If you’re unsure which products are okay to keep using, we’ve gathered gentle pregnancy-safe options that may help you feel more supported without second-guessing everything.

Not sure when (or if) to share the news?

This choice is deeply personal.

Some people wait until a provider confirms the pregnancy or until the end of the first trimester. Others tell a partner or close friend right away. Some choose to hold it quietly for a while.

There’s no wrong timing. If sharing helps you feel supported, that’s a good reason. And if holding it close helps you feel safer, that’s a good reason too.

Wondering what’s normal in the early days?

The truth is, early pregnancy looks different for everyone.

Some feel symptoms right away. Others feel nothing at all. Both are completely normal. You might notice:

Mild cramping that feels like your period is coming
Tender or swollen breasts
Fatigue (like, nap-on-the-floor-level tired)
Emotional swings or sudden weepiness
Nausea, with or without vomiting

You might also have light spotting or twinges, and yes, that can happen even in healthy pregnancies. But if you experience heavy bleeding or sharp pain, call your provider to check in.

If you feel unsure about continuing the pregnancy

First, take a deep breath. You’re not alone in this, either.

Pregnancy doesn’t always bring instant clarity, and it’s okay if you’re feeling uncertain, conflicted, or afraid. You don’t have to make any decisions today. What you feel matters. And support exists for every path whether you’re leaning toward parenting, adoption, or something else entirely.

If you’d like help finding trustworthy, compassionate resources, we’re here. Just ask.

Common questions, answered with care

What should I do after a positive pregnancy test?

Pause. Breathe. If your result is clear, you can begin gentle care (like taking a prenatal vitamin) and plan your first appointment around 8 weeks—unless your provider recommends sooner.

Do I need to take a second test?

Not necessarily. If your result was recent, clear, and followed directions, one test is usually enough. But if it helps you feel more confident, it’s okay to retest in a couple of days using first morning urine.

When should I call a doctor or midwife?

Most providers recommend scheduling your first visit between 8 and 10 weeks. But reach out earlier if you have a medical condition, are undergoing fertility treatment, or feel unsure about anything.

You don’t need all the answers right now.
You really don’t.

You just need this moment, and the next one, and maybe a soft place to land in between.

If your test is still unclear, or your body feels out of sync with the results, our guide on what to do when you’re pregnant, but the test says no may help sort out the confusion.

If you’re not there yet and are still noticing early signs, you might also want to explore how to recognize pregnancy symptoms before testing.

And if you just need something to hold onto right now, let it be this: