During your pregnancy, report any of the following warning signs to your physician. Communication is very important between you, your support person, and your physician. Make a list of your physical symptoms, including your concerns, and bring this list with you to your doctor's appointment.
| Warning Signs |
Possible Problems |
| Vaginal bleeding |
Placenta previa
Abruptio placenta
Premature labor |
| Abdominal pain |
Abruptio placenta
Premature labor
contractions |
| Leaking or gushing of clear fluid from your vagina |
Rupture of membranes |
| Sudden puffiness or swelling of your hands or face |
Pregnancy-induced hypertension
(high blood pressure) |
| Severe, persistent headache |
Pregnancy-induced hypertension
(high blood pressure) |
| Disturbances of vision - spots |
Pregnancy-induced hypertension
(high blood pressure) |
| Dizziness, light-headedness |
Pregnancy-induced hypertension
(high blood pressure)
Pregnancy-induced hypotension
(low blood pressure) |
| Pain or burning during urination |
Urinary tract infection
Sexually transmitted
disease |
| Irritating vaginal discharge, itching, genital sores, warts |
Vaginal infection
Sexually transmitted
disease |
| Fever - oral temperature over 100 degrees Fahrenheit |
Infection |
| Persistent nausea and vomiting |
Infection Dehydration |
| Noticeable reduction in fetal activity* |
Fetal distress |
* Once fetal movement is felt on a regular basis:
1. Once a day, after breakfast, count fetal movements for half an hour. If you count three movements or less, call your physician.
2. If you are aware of decreased fetal movement, notify your physician.