11 Warning Signs You Should Never Ignore During Pregnancy

WARNING SIGNS YOU SHOULD NEVER IGNORE DURING PREGNANCY. Most of the symptoms women experience during pregnancy are normal, even if they're not exactly comfortable. But they may also be signs of something more serious, so consult your doctor if you notice any of these. 1. Persistent or Severe Vomiting. Vomiting, along with nausea, can be a completely normal first trimester symptom. But if you have persistent nausea and vomiting several times a day, can't keep any fluids down for 12 hours, or are lightheaded from vomiting, consult your doctor. It may be a condition called hyperemesis gravidarum, which can cause problems such as weight loss, low birth weight, and dehydration. 2. Severe Headache. Headaches during pregnancy can be caused by many factors, including hormonal changes, stress, and fatigue. But a persistent or severe headache that doesn't go away when you rest may be a sign of high blood pressure or the high blood pressure disorder called preeclampsia. Preeclampsia is a serious condition that requires medical treatment to protect your health and the health of your baby. 3. Changes in Eyesight. Changes in vision, such as temporary loss of vision, blurred vision, or light sensitivity, especially at or after 20 weeks of pregnancy, may be linked to complications like gestational hypertension or preeclampsia. 4. Itching All Over. If you have sudden, severe itching, without a rash, it could be a sign of cholestasis during pregnancy. Cholestasis is a liver condition, which usually starts in the third trimester and can increase the risk of stillbirth and preterm birth. 5. Feeling Your Baby Move Less Often. Women typically feel the baby fluttering, kicking, or turning, somewhere between 18 to 25 weeks of pregnancy. By the end of your second trimester or early in the third trimester, your baby's kicks will become stronger and more frequent. If you notice an absence of movement or if your baby isn't moving as much as usual over several days, call your doctor to double-check everything is progressing well. 6. Persistent Abdominal Pain. Rhum ligament pain is quite normal, and you do not have to worry about the same. But if the pain is accompanied by bleeding, fever, or chills, it may signal a complication. In this case, it's best to contact your doctor. 7. Bleeding or Spotting. This kind of situation cannot be ignored as that often leads to serious issues like placental abruption or miscarriage. In this case, you are definitely in need of the assistance of any expert midwife. 8. Painful or Burning Urination. If you feel an increased urge to pee but find only a few drops come out, or if you feel a sense of pain or burning during urination, you might have contracted a urinary tract infection. If not treated, this warning sign can lead to other serious infections or even preterm labor. 9. Sudden Weight Gain or Swelling. Gaining more than 3-5 pounds in one week, especially in the second half of pregnancy, can be a sign of preeclampsia. You may notice this weight gain is combined with swelling of the face, legs, and hands. Remember, some swelling of your feet or hands may be normal, but should be monitored. 10. Fever or Flu-like Symptoms. Chills or fever of 100.4°F or higher may be caused by an infection. Consult your doctor to rule out anything serious. Also, don't dismiss flu symptoms during pregnancy. You're more likely to develop a severe case of the flu when you're pregnant and suffers serious complications, including pneumonia and preterm birth. Early Contractions or Water Breaking. If you feel early contractions in the uterus or a rush of fluid flowing before 37 weeks, it may be a sign you are in premature labor. In this case, it's very important to contact your doctor right away. While pregnancy is mostly a joyous life event, it is also a time that calls for caution. If you're in any doubt or you just don't feel right, it's always better to consult your doctor. This way, you won't worry, and if a problem does exist, it can be taken care of immediately.