7 signs you should call the doctor during pregnancy
Lying awake at night, and worrying about every little twinge or change in your pregnancy is more normal than you might think. After deciding to start a family, the whole process can put you on edge. Understanding the fine line between normal discomfort and serious health issues is crucial for your peace of mind.
So, how do you know when to call the doctor during pregnancy and when it's safe to rest?
This article will delve into some of the most serious conditions you should not ignore and tell you what they might mean. By the end of the article, you should understand when you should act and when you can rest easy.
1. Severe Abdominal Pain
Many mothers experience some level of abdominal pain during their pregnancy. This can range from mild discomfort to sensations similar to menstrual cramping. It may even include intense pain requiring a medical examination, even if there is no long-term damage.
While these are often the normal changes a body goes through during pregnancy, they are worth keeping an eye on. It could be something as simple as constipation or gas, or it may be something more serious.
Continue to track the pain over time. If you detect any of the following, take immediate action by contacting your healthcare provider:
- Sudden or sharp pain
- Persistent pain over a day
- Bleeding, which could suggest an injury
- Fever, which indicates an infection
- Localized pain in one area
Remember, though, that regardless of the lack of specific signs, if you feel you need to see a doctor then do so. It is better to be safe, after all.
2. Persistent and Severe Nausea
Morning sickness is a common symptom of pregnancy within the first trimester. Despite its name, though, this can occur at any time during the day or night.
Still, you might find that the discomfort is either more severe or more continuous than you would otherwise expect. If this feels like more-than-normal nausea, get a check-up.
To try and offset the nausea in the meantime, try some of these tips:
- Eat dry and bland food to settle your stomach
- Stay in well-ventilated areas to reduce odors
- Avoid spicy or fatty meals
- Use ginger supplements or tea to settle your stomach
These are not guaranteed to help, but if the nausea continues even when using these, you may want to seek a professional opinion.
3. Vaginal Bleeding or Fluid Leaking
Light spotting is very normal during pregnancy, especially after intercourse, up to twelve weeks. It can result from the implantation of the fertilized egg in the womb or the ongoing growth of the embryo. It is also very common after intercourse should it occur during pregnancy.
If you are unsure about the nature of your bleeding, wear a pad to check the amount and type of discharge you are experiencing. Also, try to rest as much as possible to prevent ongoing issues.
If the bleeding is stronger or occurs after the first trimester, you should ensure the safety of the baby. In this case, contact a doctor. If you start to leak any other fluids, call an ambulance immediately.
4. Unusual Fatigue or Ongoing Dizziness
You can expect to feel more tired during pregnancy as your body starts to grow an embryo and hormonal changes occur. Ensure you get plenty of food and drink, and try to rest when you can.
Be aware of conditions like iron deficiency, heavy metal poisoning, and infections, though. These could both endanger the baby and also cause excessive tiredness.
If you suspect any of these, discuss the situation with a healthcare professional at the earliest opportunity. This is even more important if the symptoms start to affect your daily life or come with other issues, such as lightheadedness or blurred vision.
5. Reduced Fetal Movement
Once your baby starts moving, familiarize yourself with its regular movement patterns. They will start to develop a daily cycle, much like your own, and so this offers an opportunity to track their activities.
If you notice a sudden decrease, call a doctor straight away. While it may be normal, you will want to get checked to ensure things are safe.
6. High Fever
Common causes of fever during pregnancy include various mild illnesses. It is also good to remember that during this time your body will often appear around 0.5 degrees Fahrenheit hotter than usual.
Still, if you develop a fever of over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, or if you notice other symptoms, you should speak to a doctor. They can help you work out if your situation demands extra attention.
7. Sudden Swelling
It is normal for expectant mothers to experience swelling in their hands, feet, or face. This tends to be due to hormonal changes and increased blood volume during pregnancy, or because of dietary changes.
If you notice rapid swelling, especially if it comes with a headache, abdominal pain, or vision changes, contact a doctor. These could be signs of preeclampsia or other issues.
Knowing when to call the doctor during pregnancy
If you are unsure if you should worry, it is always the best idea to contact a healthcare professional. They will have had experience handling issues like yours and will know the examinations they need to do to ensure your and your baby's health.
When you have problems that do not demand immediate attention, try to keep a record of all the symptoms you experience. This way you can contact the doctor with abundant information. When discussing the issue, be clear and concise to ensure the doctor fully understands the situation.
Finding more information on pregnancy health
When it comes to staying both safe and calm, knowledge is one of the greatest assets you can have. Having the right knowledge before you call the doctor during pregnancy can both save you time and prevent undue concerns. This is why we try to provide as much information as we can about such health issues.
Here, in the Raleigh, Durham, and Fayetteville areas, WRAL offers what you need to help you and your family stay safe. So, check out our Health section to keep an eye on the latest updates in the area.
