Warning Symptoms During Pregnancy: When to Seek Medical Advice

Pregnancy is an exciting journey, but it can also bring concerns about your and your baby’s health. Identifying warning symptoms early can help ensure a healthy pregnancy. In this blog, Dr. Archana Kanka from Sahyadri Hospital’s Mom Story, Shastrinagar, explains common warning signs during different trimesters and when you should contact your doctor.

Warning Symptoms in the First Trimester (First 3 Months)

The early months of pregnancy are critical. Watch for these signs:

• Severe Abdominal Pain or Bleeding: This could indicate internal bleeding or the risk of miscarriage.
• Spotting or Pain on One Side: Mild gas-related discomfort is normal, but sharp, one-sided pain accompanied by spotting needs immediate attention.

What to Do: Visit your doctor if you notice these symptoms.

Second Trimester (Middle 3 Months): The Safer Phase

The middle trimester is often the most stable period, but complications can still arise:

• Blood-Stained or Watery Discharge: This could be a sign of uterine contractions or cervical issues.
• Reduced Baby Movements: After 20 weeks, baby movements should be consistent. If you don’t feel movements for several hours, consult your doctor.

Third Trimester (Last 3 Months): Critical for Baby’s Growth

During the third trimester, these signs should not be ignored:

• Bleeding: Even mild spotting could indicate infection or placental issues. Heavy bleeding needs urgent care.
• Reduced Movements: After 28 weeks, you should feel at least 3-4 movements per hour. Eating something sweet and resting on your left side can help stimulate movement. If movements don’t improve in 2 hours, consult your doctor.
• Sudden Swelling or Headaches: These may indicate high blood pressure, which can be dangerous for both mother and baby.

General Tips for All Trimesters

• Keep track of baby movements, especially in the third trimester.
• Regularly monitor your blood pressure and report any unusual symptoms like swelling or headaches.
• Growth concerns: If your belly size seems smaller than expected, consult your doctor for a growth assessment.

When in Doubt, Contact Your Doctor

It’s always better to address your concerns promptly rather than wait for symptoms to worsen. Early intervention can prevent complications and ensure a healthy pregnancy journey.

For further guidance or consultations, feel free to reach out to us.