- Vaginal Bleeding:
Experiencing some spotting is normal, while having heavy bleeding could be a sign of miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy (a serious complication that occurs when the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, usually in the fallopian tubes). If a pregnant woman experiences bleeding and or bad cramping similar to period cramps, it can be a sign of threatened miscarriage. If this is accompanied by a sharp, lower abdominal pain, it may be a sign of ectopic pregnancy. In this case, the doctor should be contacted. Usually the doctor will undergo an ultrasound, a physical exam and some blood tests.
- Excessive Nausea and Vomiting:
It’s normal to have some nausea and vomiting during the first trimester of pregnancy and most pregnant women go through that. If however the vomiting is severe or causing dehydration to the pregnant woman (no water or fluids are kept down for more than 12 hours), or weight loss and dizziness are present, then the doctor should be contacted. The doctor may recommend hospitalization to treat the dehydration and he may also prescribe medications to control the nausea.
- High Fever:
A fever greater than 101 degrees Fahrenheit or 38 degrees Celsius during pregnancy may be a sign of infection especially if accompanied by a rash, joint pain, upper respiratory symptoms, body ache and flu- like symptoms. Any infection could affect the baby as well. In this case, the doctor should be contacted.
- Vaginal Discharge and Itching:
Some vaginal discharge is normal, however in some cases it may be a sign of infectionor sexually transmitted disease that could harm the baby. It is essential to contact the doctor to treat any possible problem.
- Pain or Burning during Urination:
If a pregnant woman experiences pain or burning during urination, it may be a sign of bladder or urinary tract infections which if left untreated, may lead to more serious illness. It is essential to treat any infections to relieve pain and guarantee a healthy pregnancy.
- Leg or Calf Pain, or Swelling on One Side/ Severe Headache:
This is not common however pregnancy slightly increases the chances of developing a blood clot. A blood clot in the calf may lead to pain or swelling and can result in a blood clot that travels to the lung, which could be fatal. A blood clot in the brain may be signalled by a severe headache, although there are other possible causes of bad headaches during pregnancy. If a woman hasa history of blood clots or experiences leg or calf pain or one side severe headache, then the doctor should be contacted immediately.
- Flare-Ups of Chronic Diseases:
Women who have certain pre-existing medical conditions such as thyroid disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma, and/or lupus mayexperience flare-ups during their pregnancy. These flare-ups or uncontrolled disease symptoms may have serious consequences on the pregnant woman and her baby. For example pregnant women with thyroid disease or diabetes are at high risk of miscarriage. These flare-ups should be closely monitored and followed-up by both the specialized doctor and the gynaecologist.
If you have any unusual symptoms or feel worried about anything with your health it is wise to contact your doctor straight away to either put your mind at rest or to take the appropriate course of action.
