When to Call Your Doctor During Pregnancy

Medically Reviewed by Nivin Todd, MD on September 07, 2022
1 min read

Call your health care provider right away if you have:

  • Unusual or severe cramping or abdominal pain
  • Changes in your baby's movement after 28 weeks gestation (if there are less than 10 movements in 2 hours) that you notice while sitting still or lying down
  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath that seems to be getting worse
  • Signs of premature labor including:
    -- Regular tightening or pain in the lower abdomen or back
    -- Any bleeding in the second or third trimester (which may be normal after a vaginal exam or intercourse)
    -- Fluid leak
    -- Severe pressure in the pelvis or vagina (Pressure is normal in 2nd and 3rd trimesters.)

Also call your health care provider if you have any of the following conditions during pregnancy:

  • A fever over 100° Fahrenheit
  • Severe or persistent vomiting
  • Severe diarrhea
  • Fainting spells or dizziness
  • Pain, burning, or trouble urinating
  • Unusual vaginal discharge
  • Repeated vaginal bleeding
  • Swelling in your hands, fingers, or face
  • Blurred vision or spots before your eyes
  • Sore, cracked, or bleeding nipples
  • Severe headaches
  • Pain or cramping in your arms, legs, or chest

If you aren't sure if a symptom is serious, but you just don't feel like yourself, trust your instincts and call your provider. If there is a problem, you will get prompt attention. If there isn't, you will be reassured.