Is your pregnancy test positive? Discover all the steps to follow, from medical confirmation to the first symptoms, to serenely experience this new adventure of pregnancy.
Pregnancy test
How does a pregnancy test work?
A pregnancy test detects the presence of the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) , which is produced from the very beginning of implantation. This hormone is the first biological indicator of pregnancy. Urine tests are quick, more than 99% reliable, and available without a prescription. Sometimes the test line is lighter than expected; feel free to repeat the test the next day with your first urine.
For a reliable result, it is recommended to take the test in the morning , using the first urine of the day. Generally, the test can be performed 14 days after ovulation . Carefully reading the instructions remains essential to avoid false negatives.
Should the result be confirmed by a blood test?
Yes. Even if the test is positive, only a blood test can definitively confirm the pregnancy and measure the exact hCG level. This test is necessary for the doctor to monitor the pregnancy.
First medical step: the doctor's appointment
Why consult a healthcare professional quickly?
As soon as the test is positive, it is advisable to make an appointment with your general practitioner or gynecologist . This first consultation allows you to confirm the pregnancy, prescribe the initial tests, and establish a follow-up schedule.
If you don't know who to turn to
If you don't yet have a regular doctor or gynecologist , don't panic.
Start by making an appointment with your general practitioner , who will then refer you to a pregnancy monitoring professional.
You will then be able to choose:
-
A self-employed midwife near you,
-
Or a gynecologist-obstetrician attached to the maternity hospital where you would like to give birth.
The important thing is to find a practitioner you feel comfortable with , because he or she will accompany you throughout this adventure.
The difference between a midwife and a gynecologist
It is common to hesitate between these two professionals, but their roles are complementary:
| Occupation | Main role | When to consult a doctor? |
|---|---|---|
| Midwife | Specialist in monitoring physiological (uncomplicated) pregnancies. She provides prenatal consultations, childbirth preparation, delivery and postnatal follow-up. | If your pregnancy is progressing normally. |
| Gynecologist-Obstetrician | A doctor specializing in women's health and high-risk pregnancies . He intervenes in cases of complications or pathologies requiring close medical monitoring. | If you have a medical history, a high-risk pregnancy, or a planned cesarean section. |
💡 Good to know: You can start your prenatal care with a midwife, then be referred to a gynecologist if a specific medical need arises. Both often work closely with maternity wards.
The importance of medical monitoring from the beginning
Early and regular monitoring is essential to ensure the health of both baby and mother. The first appointment allows for:
-
To confirm the pregnancy with a blood test,
-
To plan the initial tests (blood type, toxoplasmosis, dating ultrasound) ,
-
And to get advice tailored to your lifestyle and diet.
The first symptoms of pregnancy
Fatigue, nausea, tender breasts: normal signs
Every woman experiences her pregnancy in a unique way.
For some, the Early signs appear within the first few days: intense fatigue , morning nausea , frequent urge to urinate , mood swings or tender breasts .
These manifestations are due to hormonal changes, particularly the increase in progesterone and hCG, and often reflect the healthy progress of the beginning of pregnancy.
However, it is important to know that the total absence of symptoms is also perfectly normal .
Some women experience no nausea or particular fatigue , apart from slight breast tenderness or an unusual feeling of warmth .
This does not mean in any way that the pregnancy is progressing badly: every body reacts differently.
💡 Good to know: Not feeling anything is not a cause for concern. The evolution of hCG levels, confirmed by a blood test, remains the best indicator of the pregnancy's progress.
When to worry: symptoms to watch for
However, certain signs should raise concern and warrant a prompt medical consultation:
-
Severe abdominal pain or pain localized to one side,
-
Heavy bleeding ,
-
A persistent fever ,
-
Or a significant general malaise .
These symptoms can sometimes indicate an ectopic pregnancy or another complication requiring prompt medical attention.
If in doubt, it is always best to consult a healthcare professional, even if just to be reassured.
Adapting your lifestyle from the beginning of pregnancy
Essential nutrition and supplements
Adopting a balanced diet is fundamental for the proper development of the baby and the health of the expectant mother.
Favor fresh fruits and vegetables , lean proteins (fish, poultry, eggs), as well as whole grains rich in fiber.
Doctors often recommend taking folic acid (vitamin B9) from the beginning of pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects in the fetus.
In addition, iron , calcium , and vitamin D play a crucial role in bone growth and maintaining good energy levels.
Avoid raw milk cheeses, uncooked cured meats and raw fish to prevent the risks of toxoplasmosis and listeriosis.
Habits to avoid (tobacco, alcohol, stress)
It is important to eliminate alcohol and tobacco consumption, which can affect the baby's development.
Stress, meanwhile, directly influences the well-being of both mother and child. Engaging in relaxing activities such as meditation, reading, gentle crafts, prenatal yoga, or walking helps maintain a healthy emotional balance.
Physical activity and well-being
Contrary to some misconceptions, it is not necessary to stop exercising at the beginning of pregnancy .
Physical activity, when properly adapted, provides numerous benefits: it improves blood circulation , reduces lower back pain , promotes better sleep , and helps prepare the body for childbirth .
The important thing is not the type of activity, but the way in which it is carried out.
You can continue most of the disciplines you enjoyed before pregnancy, provided you adapt them to your new pace and avoid high-impact exercises or those with a risk of falling .
Here are some simple tips:
-
Reduce the intensity as the pregnancy progresses.
-
Stay hydrated and avoid excessively hot environments.
-
Inform your coach or teacher so that they can adapt the exercises (especially to protect the abdominal muscles and pelvic floor).
-
Listen to your body : if you feel pain, contractions or discomfort, stop immediately.
The mental health of pregnant women
Learning to listen to your body and your emotions
Pregnancy profoundly transforms the body and mind. Some women experience feelings of anxiety or vulnerability, especially during the first trimester.
Listen to your emotions without guilt: they are legitimate. Talking with a loved one, a psychologist, or a midwife can help you better manage this period of change.
The role of the partner and emotional support
The support of a partner is invaluable. Sharing medical appointments, talking about fears, preparing the baby's room together, or participating in prenatal classes strengthens the family bond.
Open communication is key to getting through this stage with serenity and understanding.
Administrative procedures not to be forgotten
Declaration of pregnancy to the CAF (Family Allowance Fund) and Social Security
Once the pregnancy has been confirmed by a professional, they will give you a pregnancy declaration document.
It must be sent before the end of the third month to the Family Allowance Fund (CAF) and Social Security . Check with your doctor; the declaration can be sent directly by them during the end-of-first-trimester examination.
This process triggers the opening of your rights and the reimbursement of maternity-related care.
Maternity leave and pregnancy-related rights
Maternity leave is a fundamental right for all employed women. Its duration depends on the number of dependent children and your professional situation.
Generally, it begins 6 weeks before delivery and lasts 10 weeks after .
It is also possible to benefit from sick leave. This can be prescribed at any time during pregnancy when a pregnant woman experiences physical or psychological difficulties that prevent her from continuing her professional activity under good conditions.
This stop Fully legitimate and protected by law. It does not call into question your rights or your maternity leave.
It's better to listen to your body and rest than to risk a complication.
Taking care of yourself is also taking care of your baby.
💬 Don't hesitate to talk to your doctor, midwife or gynecologist: if you experience significant fatigue, high stress, persistent pain, or simply if you no longer feel able to work calmly, your healthcare professional can temporarily stop you.
Finally, all pregnant women benefit from specific protection in the workplace :
-
No dismissal can be made for reasons related to pregnancy.
-
The employer must adjust working conditions if necessary (hours, carrying of loads, unsuitable position, etc.).
-
Absences for mandatory medical examinations are permitted and paid.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions After a Positive Pregnancy Test
1. My pregnancy test is positive but I'm bleeding, is that normal?
Light brown spotting may occur initially, related to implantation. However, bright red bleeding or bleeding accompanied by pain requires immediate medical attention.
2. Can I continue to drink coffee or tea during my pregnancy?
Yes, but in moderate amounts: no more than 200 mg of caffeine per day (i.e., a maximum of 2 cups).
3. When can you hear the baby's heartbeat?
From the 7th week of amenorrhea, ultrasound often allows the fetal heartbeat to be heard.
4. Can I travel during the first term?
Yes, provided your pregnancy is normal and there are no medical contraindications. However, avoid long, tiring journeys, as well as countries where there is a risk of malaria, dengue fever, chikungunya, etc.
5. Which medications are permitted during pregnancy?
Do not take any medication without medical advice . Some seemingly harmless products can be dangerous for the fetus.
6. What if I'm not ready to be a mother?
You can consult a doctor, a midwife or a family planning center to get a sympathetic ear and explore all possible options.
Embrace this new adventure with confidence and kindness.
A positive pregnancy test marks the beginning of a unique journey in a woman's life. Between joy, doubts, and discoveries, every step counts.
Surround yourself with trusted professionals, listen to your body and follow your own pace.
Pregnancy is not a race, but a beautiful transformation , that of becoming a mother.
To learn more, discover the reliable resources on Ameli.fr on pregnancy monitoring and the rights of expectant mothers.
