Why Knowing the Warning Signs Matters

Most pregnancies go well, but sometimes problems can happen quickly.

Warning signs are the body’s way of saying “I need help now.”

Knowing these signs helps:

• Keep you safe
• Protect your baby
• Prevent serious problems
• Get care quickly when needed

🚨 1. Severe Headache That Does Not Go Away

A strong headache that will not get better with rest or medicine can be a sign of high blood pressure or preeclampsia.

This can be dangerous for both you and your baby.

🚨 2. Trouble Breathing or Shortness of Breath

If you feel like you cannot catch your breath, or breathing becomes hard even when resting, this can be a sign of:

• Heart problems
• Blood clots
• Infections

These conditions need quick care.

🚨 3. Chest Pain

Chest pain or pressure is not normal during pregnancy.

Call for help right away if you feel:

• Tightness
• Sharp pain
• Burning
• Pressure

This can be a sign of a heart or lung problem.

🚨 4. Vision Changes

Call your doctor if you have:

• Blurry vision
• Seeing spots
• Dark or missing spots in your sight
• Flashing lights

These symptoms can be linked to preeclampsia, a serious pregnancy condition.

🚨 5. Severe Stomach Pain or Right-Upper Belly Pain

Pain under your ribs on the right side, or strong belly pain that doesn’t go away, may be a sign of:

• Preeclampsia
• Liver problems
• Other serious conditions

Do not wait for this pain to pass.

🚨 6. Heavy Bleeding or Passing Clots

Light spotting can be normal.

Heavy bleeding (soaking pads, passing clots) is NOT normal.

It may be a sign of:

• Placental problems
• Miscarriage
• Preterm labor

Seek care right away.

🚨 7. Severe Swelling in Hands, Face, or Legs

Some swelling can be normal in pregnancy.

But sudden swelling, especially in the face or hands, can be a sign of preeclampsia.

🚨 8. Baby’s Movements Decrease

Your baby should move regularly.

If you notice:

• Baby is moving less
• Baby stops moving
• Baby’s movement pattern changes

Call your provider and ask for a kick count check or an ultrasound.

🚨 9. Fever Over 100.4°F (38°C)

A fever can mean infection.

Some infections during pregnancy can be dangerous for the baby, especially if they cause:

• Contractions
• Low amniotic fluid
• High heart rate

Do not ignore a fever.

🚨 10. Thoughts of Harming Yourself or Feeling Hopeless

Mental health is just as important as physical health.

Call your doctor right away if you feel:

• Hopeless
• Overwhelmed
• Unsafe
• Like hurting yourself

You deserve help, care, and support.

You can also call or text 988 (the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline).

🚨 11. Vaginal Fluid Leaking or Sudden Gush

A big gush of fluid or constant leaking may mean your water broke.

Get checked quickly to prevent infection or early labor risks.

🚨 12. Contractions Before 37 Weeks

Contractions that are:

• Regular
• Painful
• Getting closer together

before 37 weeks may be a sign of preterm labor.

Call your provider immediately.

⚠️ What To Do If You Notice a Warning Sign

1. Listen to your body.

You know when something feels wrong.

2. Tell a family member or support person.

Do not wait alone.

3. Call your doctor, midwife, or labor & delivery unit.

Explain your symptoms clearly.

4. If the symptoms are severe — call 911 or go to the ER.

ACOG and CDC both say:

If you feel something is wrong, do not wait. Get checked.