Think You’re Pregnant? Your First 5 Steps to Take Right Now
- Brie Anderson
- Jan 21
- 4 min read
If you’re wondering whether you might be pregnant, it’s okay to pause and breathe. You don’t have to sort everything out all at once. Whether you missed a period, noticed early symptoms, or simply have a feeling something is different, there are clear, simple steps you can take right now to get clarity and support.
You may not know what step to take first. You might be feeling anxious, excited, confused, overwhelmed, or somewhere in between. Whatever you’re feeling, you’re not alone - and help is available. Here’s a gentle, practical guide to your first five steps.
1. Take a High-Quality Pregnancy Test
First things first - take a pregnancy test. Though home pregnancy tests are typically very accurate, there is always a chance for a false positive if taken too early or done incorrectly.
Confirming your home pregnancy test result with a medical-grade pregnancy test can give you more precise results.
Pregnancy centers like ours offer:
Medical-quality pregnancy testing
Private, confidential appointments
Immediate results
Guidance for your next steps
A positive test is the first step to understanding what your body is telling you.
2. Confirm Your Pregnancy With an Ultrasound
A pregnancy test alone can’t tell you all there is to know about your pregnancy. An ultrasound is the ideal way to confirm:
If the pregnancy is viable (developing where it should)
How far along are you
Whether there is a heartbeat
Whether the pregnancy is located inside the uterus
This matters because up to 1 in 4 early pregnancies may not continue, and some pregnancies may be ectopic (developing outside the uterus), which requires immediate medical attention.
Limited ultrasounds, offered at many pregnancy centers at no cost, provide vital information before you consider any next steps.
We can provide a free medical-quality pregnancy test and, if eligible, a limited ultrasound.
3. Learn About All Your Options
If your pregnancy test comes back positive, you may be considering your options. Talk to someone who will listen without judgment, pressure, or an agenda.
Pregnancy options consultations typically include:
Parenting Support & Resources
Adoption Information & Referrals
Abortion Education
Even if you’re unsure which path to take right now, talking through your situation with someone trained to help can bring clarity and calm.
A pregnancy options consultation can help you:
Understand each option
Learn what’s available in your community
Explore emotional, financial, and practical support
Process your thoughts with someone who truly listens and will keep your information confidential
You don’t have to make a rash decision due to pressure around you - there is no rush.
4. Take Care of Your Body While You Figure Out Next Steps
While you’re waiting for appointments or trying to understand your options, you can take simple steps to support your pregnancy health:
Start taking prenatal vitamins
Folic acid supports early fetal development and is recommended for women who are or may be pregnant.
Stay hydrated
Do your best to aim for regular water intake throughout the day.
Eat small, balanced meals
Small, balanced meals help reduce nausea and keep your energy steady.
Avoid alcohol, drugs, THC, vaping, and tobacco
These can affect early pregnancy development.
Rest when you can
Fatigue is one of the most common early pregnancy symptoms.
These simple actions support your health, regardless of your next steps.
5. Reach Out for Support - You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone
While you may feel the pressure to have to figure out everything yourself, know that you don’t. Talking with someone you trust can make everything feel more manageable.
Support can come from:
A close friend
A family member
A nurse or trained pregnancy center staff member
A mentor or counselor
You deserve a compassionate and safe place where you can talk openly, ask questions, and get clarity without fear or pressure.
Pregnancy centers offer:
Confidential consultations
Emotional support
Help with understanding your options
Referrals for prenatal care
Community resources
Material support
You are not expected to have all the answers right now - you just need a safe place to start.
Support Is Available Today
If you think you might be pregnant or just received a positive test, you don’t have to go through this moment alone. Our team is here to listen, support, and help you understand your next steps - at your pace and in your own time.
Your appointment is always free and confidential. Schedule your free appointment today to get clarity in a safe place.
FAQ: Think You’re Pregnant?
Q: How soon can I take a pregnancy test?
A: Most tests work best after a missed period. Medical-grade tests are more sensitive.
Q: Why do I need an ultrasound if I already took a test?
A: Only an ultrasound can confirm viability, gestational age, and location of the pregnancy.
Q: What if I don’t want anyone to know I might be pregnant?
A: Your visit is confidential. You don’t need insurance or parental involvement.
Q: Can I get an ultrasound for free?
A: Many pregnancy centers offer no-cost, limited OB ultrasounds to qualifying clients.
Q: What if I’m not ready to make a decision yet?
A: That’s okay. Support is available to help you take one step at a time.
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