Pregnancy Warning Signs Every Woman Should Know
Pregnancy is an exciting and life-changing experience. While many symptoms during pregnancy are normal, some signs are warning signals that should never be ignored. Knowing when to seek medical care can make a critical difference to the health of both mother and baby.
At Mascot Healthcare, we encourage all pregnant women to stay informed and attend regular antenatal care, so potential problems can be detected early.
What Is Normal (and What Is Not?)
It is normal to experience symptoms such as mild nausea, tiredness, breast tenderness, and occasional body aches during pregnancy. However, certain symptoms are not normal and require urgent medical attention.
Warning Signs in Pregnancy You Should Not Ignore
1. Vaginal Bleeding
Bleeding at any stage of pregnancy is not normal. It may indicate:
- Threatened miscarriage
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Placental problems
Any bleeding should be assessed by a healthcare professional immediately.
2. Severe Lower Abdominal or Pelvic Pain
Persistent or severe pain may be a sign of:
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Miscarriage
- Infection
- Fibroids complicating pregnancy
Do not self-medicate or wait for the pain to pass.
3. Severe Headache, Blurred Vision, or Dizziness
These symptoms may be signs of high blood pressure in pregnancy (pre-eclampsia), which can be dangerous if untreated.
4. Swelling of the Face, Hands, or Sudden Weight Gain
While mild leg swelling can be normal, sudden swelling of the face and hands is a red flag and needs urgent evaluation.
5. Reduced or Absent Baby Movements
After about 20 weeks of pregnancy, reduced fetal movements may indicate fetal distress. If you notice your baby is moving less than usual, seek care immediately.
6. Persistent Vomiting
Severe vomiting that prevents eating or drinking can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance and should be treated promptly.
7. Fever or Foul-Smelling Vaginal Discharge
These may indicate infection, which can affect both mother and baby if not treated early.
Why Early Medical Care Matters
Many pregnancy complications can be successfully managed when detected early. Delaying care increases the risk of serious outcomes for both mother and baby.
How Mascot Healthcare Can Help
At Mascot Healthcare, we offer comprehensive pregnancy care, including:
- Early pregnancy assessment
- Pregnancy ultrasound scans
- Monitoring of fibroids in pregnancy
- Blood pressure and routine pregnancy checks
- Walk-in and scheduled appointments
Our goal is to provide safe, accessible, and compassionate care throughout your pregnancy journey.
Final Advice to Pregnant Women
Never ignore symptoms that worry you. Trust your instincts; if something doesn’t feel right, get checked.
Early care saves lives.
Mascot Healthcare
Supporting healthy pregnancies, every step of the way.