For some moms, there are some symptoms during pregnancy that are ignored as they think that they are only a normal part of pregnancy. In fact, they may be potentially serious warning signs. Below are 7 symptoms you should never ignore during pregnancy.
1: Bleeding During Any Trimester
Bleeding in any trimester is always dangerous. If you start bleeding, see the doctor immediately.
If you bleed heavily and have severe abdominal pain and menstrual-like cramps or feel like you are going to faint during first trimester, it can be life-threatening. You may have ectopic pregnancy that occurs when the fertilized egg implants somewhere other than the uterus. It could be a sign of miscarriage first or early second trimester. In the third trimester, bleeding with abdominal pain may indicate placental abruption, which occurs when the placenta separates from the uterine lining.
2: Severe Nausea and Vomiting
Severe nausea and vomiting make you run the risk of becoming malnourished, and dehydration and malnutrition can cause serious complications ranging from birth defects to premature labor.
3: The Baby’s Activity Level Significantly Declines
If your baby is not moving as much as it was, the baby could not be getting enough oxygen and nutrients from the placenta.
But how you know your baby’s activity level significantly declines. First drink something cold or eat something. Then lie on your side to see if this gets the baby moving. As a general rule, you should have 10 or more kicks in two hours. Anything less should prompt a phone call to your doctor.
4: Contractions Early in the Third Trimester
Contractions could be a sign of preterm labor. Regular contractions are about 10 minutes apart or less and increase in intensity. But false labor contractions are unpredictable, non-rhythmic, and do not increase in intensity. Anyway, for your or your baby’s safety, call your doctor right away.
5: Your Water Breaks
During pregnancy, the enlarged uterus can cause pressure on your bladder and you make water frequently than usual. It could be urine leakage. To check if it is urine versus a true rupture of the membrane, go to the bathroom and empty your bladder. If the fluid continues, then you have broken your water. It warns you to go to the hospital.
6: A Persistent Severe Headache, Abdominal Pain, Visual Disturbances, and Swelling During Your Third Trimester
These symptoms warn a serious and potentially fatal condition. The disorder is marked by high blood pressure and excess protein in your urine that typically occurs after the 20th week of pregnancy. Call your doctor soon.
7: Flu Symptoms
Pregnant women are more likely to get sick than non-pregnant women during flu season and at high risk for more serious complications from the flu if they get it. But first call your doctor so that he or she can evaluate your condition and treat it. Do not rush into a hospital to avoid spread it to the pregnant women.
In short, if you get any symptoms above, call your doctor for your and your baby’s safety.