10 Warning Clues Your Pregnancy Needs Extra Care Right Now
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Discover the 10 early warning signs of a high-risk pregnancy every mother should know. Learn what each symptom means, when to seek medical help, and how to protect your baby’s health during pregnancy.
Overview
One of the most thrilling and life-changing periods for a woman is pregnancy. Every moment feels unique, from your baby’s first flutter of movement to hearing their heartbeat. However, pregnancy also brings about physical changes, some of which are normal and others of which may indicate possible issues.
Even though the majority of pregnancies are uneventful, some symptoms may be warning indicators that need to be addressed right away. Early detection of these symptoms can have a significant impact on both your health and the health of your unborn child.
We’ll go over ten crucial warning signs that your pregnancy could require additional attention right now in this guide, all of which are presented in simple, approachable language so you can take quick action and keep yourself safe.
- Severe Pain in the Abdomen That Is Not Going Away
During pregnancy, especially in the first few weeks when your uterus grows, mild cramping may be common. However, prolonged, intense, or sharp stomach pain is cause for concern. Potential Reasons: When the embryo implants outside of the uterus, it is known as an ectopic pregnancy. The premature separation of the placenta from the uterus is known as placental abruption. Early labor Issues with the appendix or gallbladder What to Do: Don’t wait to “see if it goes away” if you have abrupt, intense, or localized discomfort. Make an urgent trip to the emergency department or give your healthcare professional a call. - Severe Bleeding in the Vagina
In the early stages of pregnancy, light spotting may be common, but copious bleeding, particularly if it is bright red and painful, may indicate more significant issues. Potential Reasons: Miscarriage The placenta covering the cervix is known as placenta previa. Placental abruption Infection What to Do: If you experience more than mild spotting at any point during your pregnancy, always get in touch with your doctor. To help the doctor determine the extent of the bleeding, save the pads you use. - Abrupt or Severe Inflammation
Preeclampsia, a potentially fatal illness, may be indicated by rapid swelling of the face, hands, or area around the eyes, whereas mild swelling of the feet and ankles is normal during pregnancy. Additional Preeclampsia Symptoms: Pains that are persistent Seeing spots or having blurry eyesight Pain in the upper abdomen What to Do: Get a medical assessment right away. If left untreated, preeclampsia can cause major problems for both the mother and the unborn child. - Prolonged, Excruciating Headaches
Persistent, severe headaches, particularly after 20 weeks, can also be a sign of preeclampsia or high blood pressure, even if they may be brought on by fatigue or dehydration on occasion. What to Do: If a headache persists for hours or is accompanied by swelling, dizziness, or changes in vision, don’t ignore it. A medical evaluation must be done right away. - Less Movement in the Baby
The way your baby moves is a comforting indication of their health. Your baby may be in distress if there is an abrupt decrease in activity or no movement following the typical active periods. How to Proceed: Do a kick count after 28 weeks; you should experience at least 10 motions in two hours. Contact your healthcare professional immediately if you experience decreased mobility. - Elevated Temperature
Pregnancy-related fevers over 100.4°F (38°C) can be harmful, particularly if they are brought on by diseases like listeria, influenza, or urinary tract infections (UTIs). How to Proceed: Keep an eye on your temperature. Drink plenty of water. Consult a doctor right away because some infections can be harmful to the unborn child if left untreated. - Excruciating chest pain or shortness of breath
Although dyspnea may be common in the latter stages of pregnancy, abrupt or severe dyspnea or chest pain may indicate: lung thrombosis (pulmonary embolism) Heart issues A severe episode of asthma What to Do: Treat this as a medical emergency and either go straight to the hospital or call your local emergency number. - Severe vertigo and nausea
While morning sickness is frequent, persistent vomiting (hyperemesis gravidarum) can put mother and child at danger by causing weight loss, malnutrition, and dehydration. How to Proceed: Drink electrolyte-containing beverages. Consume modest, bland meals. Speak with your physician; you might require medicine or intravenous fluids. - Burning or Pain When Urinating
A urinary tract infection (UTI), which can result in kidney infections or preterm birth if left untreated, may be indicated by a burning feeling, murky urine, or lower abdomen pain. What to Do: Get help as soon as possible. Most UTIs can be promptly resolved with pregnancy-safe antibiotics. - Excessive Itching
Severe itching, particularly on the hands and feet, may indicate cholestasis of pregnancy, a liver condition that raises the baby’s risk.
What to Do: Discuss your chronic itching with your physician. Cholestasis can be confirmed by blood testing, and risks can be decreased with early treatment.
When to Get Medical Help Right Away
Contact your physician or visit the hospital immediately if you encounter:
Any of the aforementioned symptoms
Vaginal fluid gushes out suddenly before 37 weeks (possible preterm rupture of membranes)
Convulsions
unconsciousness
How to Stay Safe During Pregnancy
Attend every prenatal visit.
Consume a well-balanced diet high in protein, calcium, and iron.
Make sure to stay hydrated.
Steer clear of tobacco, alcohol, and dangerous drugs.
Get enough sleep.
Recognize your body and follow your gut.
FAQ: Warning Signs of High-Risk Pregnancy
Q1: Do all pregnancy cramps pose a risk?
Not all the time. While mild cramping may be common, severe or ongoing pain requires medical attention.
Q2: How can I determine whether I have preeclampsia?
Keep an eye out for high blood pressure, headaches, edema, and changes in eyesight. Tests can only be performed by a physician.
Q3: Can symptoms of a high-risk pregnancy be brought on by stress?
Although stress by itself is rarely the cause, it can exacerbate several illnesses. Talk to your doctor about any strange symptoms you may be experiencing.
Q4: How frequently should my infant move?
You ought to have regular everyday movement by the third trimester. Do a kick count if you’re unsure, and if your movement stops, call your doctor.
Concluding remarks
Being pregnant is a journey that calls for both happiness and attention to detail. Some symptoms may turn out to be innocuous, while others may indicate more serious issues that require immediate medical attention.