Pregnancy Warning Signs: A Guide to Recognizing Emergencies

In short: The main signs that call for quick action in pregnancy are heavy vaginal bleeding, severe abdominal pain, reduced movements of the baby and early breaking of the waters, as well as chest pain, shortness of breath, fits, and severe headache with changes in vision. Keep your doctor’s number, know your nearest hospital, and pack your bag early.

• Recognizing warning signs during pregnancy: what to do in an emergency

The pregnant lady’s guide

Every pregnant woman deserves to feel confident about what to do if something unexpected happens. Knowing how to recognize warning signs and respond quickly can make a real difference for both your health and your baby’s wellbeing. Here is a simple guide to help you stay prepared.

• Heavy vaginal bleeding:
• Stay calm, don’t panic
• Avoid inserting anything (like a finger) inside the vagina
• Call an ambulance immediately
• Go to the nearest hospital
• Bring all of your prenatal records if possible
• If offered admission for observation accept it and don’t sign any paper against medical advice
• Severe abdominal pain:
• Stop any physical activity
• Rest in a comfortable position
• Drink some water if you are dehydrated
• Seek medical help immediately
• Don’t take analgesia before medical assessment
• If offered admission for observation accept it and don’t sign any paper against medical advice * Decreased fetal movements:
• Sit on your left side
• [If your baby is moving less than usual or the pattern has changed, seek medical help straight away — do not wait to count kicks for 2 hours or until the next day
• Once you have felt regular movements (usually from 24 weeks), report any reduction to your doctor; from 28 weeks a heartbeat recording (CTG) will be done
• What to do if your water breaks early:
• Note the color and amount of fluid
• Avoid sexual intercourse
• Don’t insert anything inside the vagina
• Seek medical help immediately
• Must go for the hospital for evaluation because of increased risk of infection

When to call emergency services immediately:

• Severe chest pain: risk of myocardial infarction or pulmonary embolism
• Difficulty breathing: risk of pulmonary embolism
• Convulsions: risk of maternal/fetal anoxia
• Loss of consciousness
• Severe headache with visual disturbance (risk of preeclampsia)
• Severe trauma
• Heavy bleeding
• No fetal movements

Important notes to keep in mind during pregnancy in case any emergency happened:

• Keep your doctor’s phone number with you
• Know which hospital is nearest to you
• Keep a hospital bag prepared
• Keep your prenatal records accessible and with you
• Keep a family member informed for cases of emergency

Being prepared, recognizing the warning signs, and responding in a timely manner helps ensure the safety of both mother and baby. If you have any concerns about your pregnancy or would like personalized guidance, Dr. Najeeb Layyous and his team are here to support you at every step of your journey.

Dr Najeeb Layyous F.R.C.O.G

Consultant Obstetrician, Gynecologist and Infertility Specialist