Warning signs in pregnancy

Most pregnancies go smoothly, but some signs cannot wait. Read this list and share it with the people close to you, so they know what to do too. Do not worry about bothering anyone. Doctors would much rather check and find everything is fine than meet a problem made worse by delay.

• Vaginal bleeding at any stage.
• Severe abdominal or pelvic pain that does not pass.
• A severe headache, blurred vision or flashing lights.
• Sudden swelling of the face or hands.
• Seizures or fainting.
• Chest pain or trouble breathing.
• Waters breaking or regular contractions before week 37.
• Baby movements that have slowed, changed or stopped.

Headache, changes in vision and swelling can be signs of pre-eclampsia, a dangerous high blood pressure condition.

• A high temperature.
• Vomiting so that you cannot keep fluids down.
• Burning when passing urine.
• Pain, redness or swelling in one leg.
• Strong itching without a rash, especially on the palms and soles.
• Watery or unusual-smelling discharge.

From around the end of the second trimester, you get to know your baby's pattern. If it changes, do not spend time counting or drinking cold water and waiting. Go to a doctor right away.

If you feel deep despair, have thoughts of harming yourself, or someone at home is hurting you, that also calls for urgent help.