Pregnancy involves significant physical changes, and open communication with your healthcare team is vital for a healthy experience. While many physical discomforts are normal, certain signs require prompt evaluation to ensure the well-being of both the expectant person and the baby. Healthcare providers prefer to be called about a minor symptom rather than miss a serious complication. Understanding the difference between routine discomfort, a concerning symptom requiring assessment, and an emergency is important for managing your care.
Immediate Warning Signs Requiring Emergency Care
Certain symptoms during pregnancy indicate a medical emergency requiring an immediate trip to the emergency room or a call to 911. Heavy vaginal bleeding, defined as soaking through one sanitary pad per hour for two or more hours, signals a potentially life-threatening condition like placental abruption or hemorrhage. This bleeding is especially concerning if it is bright red or accompanied by severe, unrelenting abdominal pain.
A sudden gush or continuous leaking of fluid from the vagina before 37 weeks may indicate premature rupture of membranes, risking infection or preterm labor. Severe, unrelenting pain in the abdomen, chest, or pelvis that is not relieved by rest could signal an ectopic pregnancy, a ruptured organ, or a blood clot.
Neurological events, such as a sudden loss of consciousness, seizure activity, or stroke symptoms like sudden numbness or difficulty speaking, require immediate emergency services. Sudden, severe facial or hand swelling combined with visual disturbances (blurred vision, seeing spots) suggests a severe form of preeclampsia. Difficulty breathing, chest pain, or a racing heart rate that does not slow down are also alarming signs that could indicate a pulmonary embolism or other serious cardiovascular issue.
Concerning Symptoms Requiring a Provider Call
Many symptoms require professional assessment and triage by your provider’s office or the on-call service, as they may indicate potential complications. Decreased fetal movement is concerning; after viability (around 28 weeks), failing to count ten movements within two hours warrants an immediate call for evaluation.
A persistent fever above 100.4°F (38°C) signals a systemic infection that may affect the pregnancy. Painful or urgent urination, or lower back pain, are common signs of a urinary tract infection (UTI). UTIs require prompt antibiotic treatment to prevent kidney infection or preterm labor.
Persistent vomiting that prevents keeping down food or liquids for more than 12 to 24 hours can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. This may require intravenous fluid therapy for hyperemesis gravidarum. Severe or persistent headaches that do not improve with pain relievers, especially with vision changes or sudden swelling, should be reported immediately as they may signal preeclampsia.
Mild to moderate vaginal spotting or light bleeding, which is not heavy enough to soak a pad, should also be reported for assessment. When calling, have specific information ready, such as your exact temperature, symptom frequency, and fluid intake. Symptoms of mental health distress, including overwhelming sadness, anxiety, or thoughts of harming yourself or the baby, should also be discussed immediately for appropriate resources.
Non-Urgent Reasons to Contact Your Provider
Routine questions and mild discomforts should be reserved for scheduled prenatal appointments or calls during regular business hours. Mild swelling (edema) in the feet and ankles is common due to increased blood volume; management usually involves elevating legs and staying hydrated. Minor digestive issues, such as occasional heartburn or constipation, are frequent and often managed with dietary adjustments or provider-recommended remedies.
General inquiries about lifestyle adjustments, including safe exercise routines, dietary guidelines, or travel plans, are appropriate for routine office calls. Other non-urgent matters include requests for prescription refills, billing inquiries, or scheduling changes. These calls can typically be handled by office staff and do not require the attention of the on-call provider after hours.