Pregnancy Warning Signs

Knowing which symptoms require immediate medical attention during pregnancy can help protect both you and your baby. This guide covers warning signs that should prompt you to contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency care.

What It Means

Some symptoms during pregnancy are normal, while others can indicate serious complications. Understanding warning signs helps you know when to seek immediate medical care.

Immediate Emergency Signs

Seek emergency medical care immediately if you experience:

Severe Abdominal Pain

• Intense, persistent abdominal pain
• Pain that doesn't improve with rest
• Pain accompanied by bleeding or fever

Heavy Bleeding

• Bleeding that soaks through a pad in an hour
• Bleeding with clots or tissue
• Bright red bleeding (especially in later pregnancy)

Severe Headaches

• Severe, persistent headaches
• Headaches with vision changes (blurred vision, spots)
• Headaches with swelling in face or hands
• Could indicate preeclampsia

Decreased Fetal Movement

• Significant decrease in baby's movements (in later pregnancy)
• No movement felt when baby is usually active
• Sudden change in movement patterns

Signs of Preterm Labor

• Regular contractions before 37 weeks
• Contractions that increase in frequency
• Lower back pain or pressure
• Water breaking

Other Warning Signs

Contact your healthcare provider promptly if you experience:

Severe Vomiting

• Unable to keep fluids down
• Signs of dehydration
• Weight loss
• Could indicate hyperemesis gravidarum

High Fever

• Temperature over 101°F (38.3°C)
• Fever with other symptoms
• Could indicate infection

Severe Swelling

• Sudden swelling in face, hands, or feet
• Swelling that doesn't improve with rest
• Could indicate preeclampsia

Vision Changes

• Blurred vision
• Seeing spots or flashes
• Vision changes with headache
• Could indicate preeclampsia

Difficulty Breathing

• Severe shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Rapid breathing

Signs of Infection

• Fever
• Chills
• Painful urination
• Unusual discharge
• Abdominal tenderness

What Is Normal

It's normal to experience:

• Some discomfort as your body changes
• Occasional mild symptoms
• Questions and concerns
• Wanting reassurance from your healthcare provider

What Is Not Normal

You should never ignore:

• Severe or persistent pain
• Heavy bleeding
• Signs of preterm labor
• Decreased fetal movement (in later pregnancy)
• Severe symptoms that come on suddenly

When to Call Your Healthcare Provider

Call immediately if you experience:

• Any of the emergency signs listed above
• Symptoms that concern you
• Uncertainty about whether something is normal
• Any sudden changes in your condition

When to Go to the Emergency Room

Go to the emergency room for:

• Severe abdominal pain
• Heavy bleeding
• Signs of preterm labor
• Severe headaches with vision changes
• Difficulty breathing
• Any life-threatening symptoms

Preparing for Emergencies

• Keep your healthcare provider's contact information easily accessible
• Know the location of your nearest hospital
• Have your insurance information ready
• Keep a list of medications you're taking
• Have someone who can drive you if needed

Trust Your Instincts

Remember:

• You know your body best
• It's always better to be cautious
• Healthcare providers want to help
• No question or concern is too small
• Early intervention can prevent complications

After Seeking Care

• Follow your healthcare provider's instructions
• Don't hesitate to ask questions
• Keep track of symptoms
• Attend follow-up appointments
• Reach out again if symptoms persist or worsen

Remember, while most pregnancies progress normally, it's essential to know the warning signs and seek help when needed. Your healthcare provider is there to support you and ensure the best outcome for you and your baby.