Pregnancy comes with many changes, and while most symptoms are normal, some can be warning signs that require immediate medical attention. Knowing what’s normal vs. what’s a red flag can help you stay informed and proactive about your health.
This guide will walk you through critical pregnancy warning signs, what they might mean, and when to call your doctor.
1. Severe Abdominal Pain or Cramping
Mild cramping is normal in early pregnancy as your uterus grows, but sharp, persistent, or severe pain is a red flag.
🚨 Possible Causes:
- Ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy outside the uterus, requires emergency care)
- Placental abruption (when the placenta separates from the uterus too early)
- Preterm labor (if occurring before 37 weeks)
- Miscarriage (if accompanied by bleeding)
📖 Experiencing mild cramping? Read: First Trimester Symptoms: What’s Normal & When to Call Your Doctor.
2. Heavy Bleeding or Passing Clots
Spotting is common in early pregnancy, but heavy bleeding with cramps or clots may indicate a serious issue.
🚨 Possible Causes:
- Miscarriage (especially in the first trimester)
- Placenta previa (when the placenta covers the cervix)
- Placental abruption (dangerous for both mom and baby)
📖 Unsure about symptoms? Read: How to Advocate for Yourself in Pregnancy Medical Care.
3. Sudden or Severe Swelling (Especially in Hands, Face, or Eyes)
Swelling is normal in pregnancy, but sudden, extreme swelling can be a sign of pre-eclampsia.
🚨 Possible Causes:
- Pre-eclampsia (a serious condition with high blood pressure)
- Gestational hypertension (high blood pressure that develops during pregnancy)
📖 Concerned about pre-eclampsia? Read: The Ultimate Pregnancy Nutrition Guide to learn how diet may impact risk.
4. Severe Headaches, Vision Changes, or Dizziness
If you experience persistent headaches, blurry vision, or dizziness, these could indicate high blood pressure or another complication.
🚨 Possible Causes:
- Pre-eclampsia (high blood pressure with possible organ damage)
- Anemia (low iron levels leading to dizziness and fatigue)
- Dehydration (can cause dizziness and low blood pressure)
📖 Need hydration tips? Read: The Ultimate Pregnancy Hydration Guide.
5. Intense Itching (Especially on Hands & Feet)
Mild itching is normal due to stretching skin, but severe itching on the hands and feet can signal cholestasis.
🚨 Possible Causes:
- Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy (ICP) (a liver disorder requiring monitoring)
- Preeclampsia-related symptoms (if combined with swelling or high blood pressure)
6. Decreased Fetal Movement
Feeling baby move regularly is a key sign of fetal health. If you notice a sudden decrease in kicks or movement, seek medical help.
🚨 What to Do:
- Drink something cold and lie on your side.
- Count kicks—if fewer than 10 movements in 2 hours, call your doctor.
- If no movement at all, seek emergency care.
📖 Want to track your baby’s development? Read: Pregnancy Fatigue: Why It Happens & How to Boost Your Energy.
7. Severe Nausea & Vomiting (Hyperemesis Gravidarum)
Morning sickness is common, but if you can’t keep food or fluids down for 24+ hours, it’s time to call your doctor.
🚨 Possible Causes:
- Hyperemesis gravidarum (severe, prolonged vomiting requiring IV fluids)
- Dehydration (can cause complications like low amniotic fluid)
📖 Struggling with nausea? Read: Pregnancy Cravings & Aversions: What They Mean & How to Handle Them.
8. High Fever (Over 100.4°F / 38°C)
Fever during pregnancy can increase the risk of birth defects and infections.
🚨 Possible Causes:
- Infection (UTI, flu, or viral illness)
- Chorioamnionitis (infection of the amniotic fluid)
9. Painful Urination or Blood in Urine
If you feel burning, urgency, or blood in your urine, it could be a sign of infection.
🚨 Possible Causes:
- Urinary tract infection (UTI) (common in pregnancy)
- Kidney infection (can lead to preterm labor if untreated)
📖 Need ways to stay hydrated? Read: The Ultimate Pregnancy Hydration Guide.
10. Signs of Preterm Labor (Before 37 Weeks)
If you experience contractions, back pain, or fluid leakage before full term, it could be labor starting too early.
🚨 Signs to Watch For:
- Regular contractions (every 10 minutes or closer)
- Lower back pain & pressure
- Leaking fluid (could indicate ruptured membranes)
📖 Unsure what’s normal? Read: First Trimester Symptoms: What’s Normal & When to Call Your Doctor.
Final Thoughts
Some pregnancy symptoms are harmless, but others require immediate attention to keep you and baby safe. When in doubt, trust your instincts and call your provider. It’s always better to check than to ignore potential warning signs.
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