Women's Health

When to Call Your Doctor During Pregnancy

Call your health care provider right away if you have:

• Unusual or severe cramping or abdominal pain
• Noticeable changes in your baby's movement after 28 weeks gestation (if you don't count 10 movements in 2 hours or less)
• 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
  -- Fluid leak
  -- Pressure in the pelvis or vagina

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
• Vaginal bleeding
• Swelling in your hands, fingers, or face
• Blurred vision or spots before your eyes
• Sore, cracked, or bleeding nipples
• Severe headaches
• Blurred vision
• 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.