When to Call the Doctor During Pregnancy

You should call your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms:

Heavy vaginal bleeding or clotting. If it happens in the first trimester, it could be an indication that you are having a miscarriage; if it happens in the second or third trimester, it could be an indication of some sort of problem with the placenta.

Lighter bleeding that lasts for more than one day. If it happens in the first trimester, it could be an indication that you are going to have a miscarriage; if it happens in the second or third trimester, it could be an indication of some sort of problem with the placenta.

The passage of grayish or pinkish tissue or any amount of bleeding that is accompanied by cramps, fever, chills, or dizziness. This could be a sign that you may be having a miscarriage.

Severe pain in abdomen or in your shoulder area. This is a symptom of an ectopic pregnancy.

A severe or persistent headache, particularly one that is accompanied by dizziness, faintness, or blurry vision. This is a possible symptom of high blood pressure or preeclampsia—a serious medical condition that is characterized by high blood pressure.

Dehydration e.g., dry mouth, thirst, reduced urine output, lowgrade fever. This can be a sign of illness or something as simple as an indication that you haven't been consuming enough liquids on a hot day.

A fever of more than 101 degrees. This is a possible symptom of an infection that may require treatment. Note: Even if you don't have an active infection, your doctor will want to bring your temperature down because, depending on your stage of pregnancy, an elevated core body temperature can be harmful to the developing baby and may trigger premature labor.

Painful urination. This is a possible symptom of a urinary tract infection—something that can trigger premature labor and/or lead to a kidney infection.

A watery discharge from the vagina. This is a sign that your membranes may have ruptured.

A sudden swelling of the face, hands, or feet. This is a sign that you may be developing preeclampsia.

Uterine contractions, vaginal bleeding or discharge, vaginal pressure in the pelvic area, menstrual-like cramping, a dull backache, stomach or intestinal cramping and gas pains, and a general feeling of unwellness. These are symptoms of premature labor.

A significant decrease in the amount of fetal movement after the 24th week of pregnancy. This is a possible sign that your baby may be running into difficulty.