Warning Signs for Pregnant Women: when to Call Your Doctor

When you are pregnant it is not unusual to worry about any and every little thing that pops up during your pregnancy. Rest assured that you are not alone when you panic at the site of a spot of blood or start aching mid-way through your pregnancy. Before I share these important warning signs with you, please know that if you are ever concerned with anything during your pregnancy call your physician immediately. If it is something, your doctor will be able to see you or tell you what to do. If it's nothing, then at least you are not sitting at home worrying yourself out of your mind, you'll have a bit of peice of mind to keep you sane.

The following conditions and symptoms should never be ignored regardless of how early or late you are into your pregnancy. Don't wait to see if these symptoms will go away on their own, be sure to contact your provider immediately if you experience any of the following:

-Severe or Persistent Vomiting -We All know that morning sickness is just a given, but if you are throwing up constantly you may have a stomach virus that will need to be treated immediately.

-Severe or persistent headache-It isn't uncommon to experience frequent headaches either, but if it is a nagging headache similar to a migraine with no relief over a period of time, consult with your doctor!

-Sudden unexplained shoulder pain- This could be more serious than just the normal ache and pain. If you suddenly start experiencing severe pain in your shoulder schedule to see your doctor as soon as possible.

-Abdominal Pain accompanied with diarrhea or nausea- Again, morning sickness we know about, but if you are experiencing severe cramping along with diarrhea or vomiting you could have a virus. Pain, diarrhea and nausea could also be a sign of the onset of labor depending on how far along you are.

-Sudden Weight Gain-Yes, you're pregnant, yes you are indulging maybe just a bit more than usual, but if you suddenly pack on more than 3 pounds in 3 days call your physician. You could be retaining water, often related with swelling, adema and gestational diabetes.

-Burred Vision or 'Seeing Spots'-It is not uncommon for a woman's visual prescription to change during pregnancy, however if your vision gets blurred or you start seeing spots, you need to alert your physician. Even if it is a one time thing that happened very quickly and never happened again, it is worth mentioning at your next visit.

-Swelling in your face/hands-We know our feet are going to resemble that of Hobbitts, but if you notice that your face and hands are swelling up and you hadn't noticed it before, be sure to notify your doctor's office.

-High Fever- You may have been sick, outside of morning sickness, and being sick isn't always a huge concern during pregnancy, but if you are having a fever above 101 degrees you should call your doctor's office and get worked in or go to your local emergency room.

-Less Urination-What pregnant woman isn't running to the bathroom every five minutes? If you aren't you should pay very close attention to how often you are going. If it is significantly less than usualy bring this up to your doctor. Decreased urination is a sign of dehydration. Start drinking more water and if that does not immediately fix the situation give your doc's office a buzz.

-Decrease or stopping of fetal movement- This applies to the second and third trimester. Your doctor may have already told you how to monitor your baby's fetal movement. If there is a dramatic change in your baby's usual fetal activity be sure to call your doctor immediately. While you're waiting try doing what mothers for ages have always recommended: Do the Opposite of whatever you were just doing. If you were bustling around lie or sit down, elevate your feet and enjoy a cup of ice water. If you were lying down, get up and move about. Try having a cup of sweet tea or a sugary snack, this will sometimes get baby moving. If you don't note any activity within 10-15 minutes of trying these techniques scoot on in to your doctor's office to get checked out.

-Vaginal Bleeding-Vaginal bleeding is always a concern no matter what stage of pregnancy you are in. If you notice any bleeding from your vagina consult with your provider immediately. He/she will want to know when the bleeding started and how much. If you are experiencing minor bleeding or spotting, call your physician and get off your feet.

-Gush or Flow from your Vagina-If you notice a trickle, gush or flow from your vagina you should call or head to your doctor's office. You could have a 'slow leak', an eruption or perhaps even your water could have broken. To be certain what's going on call/visit your doctor and do not wait!

-Regular Contractions that don't stop and continue to buld in strength-you could be going into labor. Time the contractions and call your doctor immediately!

Remember that if ever you feel that something is amiss during your pregnancy to call your doctor. Don't feel embarrassed about calling too much or calling for something you feel is 'stupid'. Your doctor is a professional and will not judge you, he is just as concerned for you and your unborn baby as you are!