Sudden changes in vision—like blurriness, seeing spots, or light sensitivity—along with dizziness can be signs of preeclampsia, a dangerous condition characterized by high blood pressure.
What to do: Call your healthcare provider immediately or go to the ER. These symptoms require urgent medical attention.
2. Persistent Headache
If you experience a headache that doesn't go away with rest or medication, it could also indicate preeclampsia or even a more serious neurological issue.
What to do: Notify your provider, especially if the headache is severe or paired with vision changes or swelling.
3. Fever Over 100.4°F (Pregnancy) or 100°F+ (Postpartum)
A fever may be a sign of infection—either systemic or localized (like mastitis or a uterine infection).
What to do: Don’t wait. Contact your provider to rule out infection or other underlying issues.
4. Swelling in Hands and Face
While some swelling is normal in pregnancy, sudden or severe swelling, especially in the hands and face, is a red flag for preeclampsia.
What to do: Contact your provider immediately for evaluation.
5. Vomiting or Diarrhea Lasting More Than 24 Hours
Persistent gastrointestinal issues can lead to dehydration and may signal infection or other complications.
What to do: Stay hydrated and contact your provider to assess the need for testing or treatment.
6. Vaginal Bleeding
During pregnancy, bleeding could indicate miscarriage, placental issues, or preterm labor. Excessive bleeding in postpartum may signal hemorrhage.
What to do: Call 911 or go to the ER if you're soaking a maxi pad in an hour or less or passing clots larger than a lemon. For lighter but concerning bleeding, contact your provider.
7. Elevated Blood Pressure
High blood pressure can threaten your life and your baby’s. It’s a hallmark of preeclampsia.
What to do: Regular monitoring is crucial. If you notice consistently high readings, call your provider immediately.
8. Abdominal Cramps or Pain (Not Contractions)
Persistent or sharp pain could be caused by placental abruption, preterm labor, or other serious concerns.
What to do: Don’t try to "wait it out." Call your provider for an evaluation.
9. Urinary Discomfort
Burning, blood in urine, or inability to urinate may be signs of a urinary tract infection (UTI), which can lead to complications if untreated.
What to do: Contact your provider for a urine test and treatment plan.
10. Change in Vaginal Discharge
A sudden change in smell, color, or consistency, especially a foul, fishy odor, may point to an infection like bacterial vaginosis.
What to do: Make an appointment with your OB/midwife to get it checked.
11. Pelvic Pressure
A sensation of the baby pushing down too early could indicate preterm labor.
What to do: Call your provider, especially if accompanied by back pain or regular contractions before 37 weeks.
12. Water Breaks Before 37 Weeks
Preterm rupture of membranes can lead to infection or preterm birth.
What to do: Head to the hospital right away. This is considered a medical emergency.
13. Decreased Fetal Movement
If you notice fewer kicks or movement patterns shift drastically after 28 weeks, it may be a sign your baby is in distress.
What to do: Perform a kick count. If movements are fewer than 10 in two hours, contact your provider or go to labor and delivery.
14. Swollen, Red, Painful Area on the Leg
This could be a blood clot and is especially dangerous if it travels to your lungs.
What to do: Go to the emergency room immediately.
15. Severe Headache That Improves When Lying Down
This may be a sign of a spinal headache (often after an epidural) or an issue with cerebrospinal fluid pressure.
What to do: Contact your provider. Treatment may include a blood patch or other interventions.
16. Painful Breast with Redness and Flu-like Symptoms
This may indicate mastitis, a breast infection common in breastfeeding parents.
What to do: Keep nursing or pumping, apply warm compresses, and call your provider. You may need antibiotics.
17. Bleeding That Soaks a Pad in an Hour or Clots Larger Than a Lemon
These are classic signs of postpartum hemorrhage, which can be life-threatening.
What to do: Call 911 or go to the ER immediately.
18. Thoughts of Harming Yourself or Your Baby
Intrusive thoughts in the postpartum period can indicate depression, anxiety or another Perinatal Mental Health Disorder.
What to do: Tell your partner or someone you trust. Call your provider and get a referral to a mental health specialist. You may also consider contacting a crisis hotline if you are alone.
It can feel overwhelming to sort through which symptoms are "normal" and which are not, but you are your own best advocate. If something feels off, it’s always better to call your provider and be reassured than to ignore it and risk your health.
Remember:
- Trust your instincts.
- Don’t downplay your symptoms.
- Make sure your support system knows these warning signs, too.
You deserve to feel safe, supported, and informed throughout your pregnancy and postpartum journey. Stay vigilant (not fearful) and speak up when something doesn’t feel right. Protect your peace, protect your body, and above all, know that your wellbeing matters.