Positive Pregnancy Test? Here’s What to Do Next

By Maria Birch, UK-Registered Obstetric Sonographer

Last updated: 2nd July 2025

You’ve just seen those two pink lines.

Or the word “pregnant” on the test.

Your heart’s racing. Your mind’s spinning.

Now what?

Whether it’s your first pregnancy or your fifth, the early days can feel both joyful and overwhelming. You might be asking:

• Should I see my GP now?
• Will a midwife contact me automatically?
• When will I get my first scan?

Take a breath. You don’t need to have it all figured out today.

Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to what happens next.

Step 1: Contact Your GP Practice

The very first thing to do after a positive pregnancy test is to call your GP practice and let them know you’re expecting.

They will either:

• Book your first midwife appointment (called the “booking appointment”), or
• Give you details for self-referral to your local maternity service

Every area is slightly different, so don’t worry if your friend’s experience doesn’t match yours. The key is making that first contact so you’re in the system.

Step 2: Your Booking Appointment

You should have your booking appointment before you reach 10 weeks of pregnancy. This appointment is usually with a midwife, not your GP, and it covers:

• Your health and medical history
• Your partner’s health (if applicable)
• Lifestyle, nutrition, and early pregnancy advice
• Blood tests and screening options

If you’re already over 10 weeks when you find out you’re pregnant, mention this when you call. It’s still important to be booked in as soon as possible.

Step 3: Your First NHS Scan

Your first routine NHS ultrasound (often called the 12-week scan) is usually offered between 11 and 14 weeks.

This scan:

• Confirms your due date
• Checks your baby’s heartbeat and development
• Offers optional screening for chromosomal conditions (if you opt in)

What If You’re Feeling Anxious or Unsure?

Many parents—especially after fertility treatment, miscarriage, or loss—feel anxious waiting until 12 weeks for a scan. That’s completely normal.

If you’re finding it hard to wait or simply want to know everything is progressing well, you might consider a private early pregnancy scan around 7–8 weeks.

Final Thought: You’re Not Alone

It’s perfectly okay to feel excited one minute and overwhelmed the next.

You don’t need to have every scan booked or decision made today.

Start with that first call to your GP practice.

Then take a moment for yourself—because you’re already doing great.

And if you’d like some help navigating the journey ahead, grab this free guide from our sister site, The Scan Lady:

🎁 Your Pregnancy Scan Timeline

A calm, clear overview of when to book each scan and what to expect at every stage.