When a woman is pregnant, her body goes through rapid changes. Many of these changes cause symptoms that women may find confusing or worrisome. While you should always consult with a medical professional if you have concerns during your pregnancy, the following guidelines will help you determine some symptoms that you should definitely call your doctor about.
A negative pregnancy test after a positive: If you took more than one pregnancy test and the first was positive and a subsequent one was negative, it is wise to consult with a doctor. Sometimes this is simply the result of low pregnancy hormones in the early stages of pregnancy. However, it may also point to an ectopic pregnancy so it is important to see a doctor to confirm everything is fine.
Anxiety or confusion: If you suddenly feel anxious, possibly accompanied by a racing heart or rapid breath or are experiencing mental confusion, it is important to seek medical assistance. These can be signs of dangerous rises in blood pressure that must be treated immediately.
Bleeding: While light bleeding or spotting may harmlessly occur in many pregnancies, it can also be a sign of hormonal fluctuations which should be monitored by your doctor. If you have heavy bleeding you should see your doctor immediately, since it may be a sign of a miscarriage beginning or another serious problem.
Cramping: Mild cramping is very common in pregnancy. Random occasional mild cramps are usually of no concern, but you can certainly mention them to your doctor at your regular visit if you are worried. However if you experience extreme cramping, especially if it accompanies bleeding or if it makes your breathing shallow and fast, you should speak with your doctor right away.
Illness: While you do not need to call your doctor for every sniffle you get when you are pregnant, you should call if you experience any extreme illness. Excessive vomiting, even from morning sickness, can cause dehydration which is harmful to both you and the baby. High fevers can also be dangerous. Extreme headaches can also point to problems with pregnancy and should be monitored. And, of course consult your doctor before using any medications, even over the counter ones.
The baby stops movement: Early in pregnancy you will not be able to feel the baby. Once you start to feel the baby move, it may be a fluttery and intermittent feeling. However, later in your pregnancy – after the sixth month – you will be aware of the baby’s movements every day. If you experience a sustained period where you simply cannot feel any motion from the baby, check with your doctor. They can easily monitor the baby to ensure there is no fetal distress. If you are simply not sure when the baby last moved, try drinking some juice and then lying still. The sugar in the juice often makes the baby a little more active and resting will help you focus on feeling the baby’s motions.
Passing clots of blood or pink or gray material: If you pass blood clots, or pieces of pinkish or gray tissue, even with no pain or cramping, call your doctor. This is frequently a sign of miscarriage.
Swelling: While a certain amount of swelling is normal during pregnancy, sudden swelling of the face or hands should be checked by a medical professional.
Vision problems: If your vision suddenly blurs or you see lights and colors or are suddenly light sensitive, call your doctor. This can be a sign of a serious medical condition and you should be seen immediately.
Sometimes women worry when they have no pregnancy symptoms at all, or when their pregnancy symptoms suddenly disappear. Some women simply do not experience nausea, cramping or other common symptoms early in their pregnancy. For other women, these symptoms disappear virtually overnight between the tenth and fourteenth week as their hormones adjust. However if you are really concerned about a lack or loss of symptoms, consult your doctor. A visit to the doctor’s office is much better than for you to worry excessively.
