Pregnancy Warning Signs: When to Call Your Doctor

Hey mama 💗 — pregnancy can feel like a rollercoaster of new sensations, emotions, and so many questions. One minute you’re craving pickles and ice cream, and the next you’re googling “Is this normal??” at 2am. 

Let’s clear something up: not all pregnancy symptoms are a cause for concern, but there are a few red flags that mean you should check in with your doctor ASAP. Your health and your baby’s health are always the priority—and sometimes your body’s way of asking for help is subtle. So let’s go over what to watch for.

Common Pregnancy Symptoms That Are Usually Totally Fine

Your body is working overtime growing a tiny human, so it’s normal to feel:

• Morning (or all-day) nausea
  
• Mild cramping in early pregnancy
  
• Sore or swollen breasts
  
• Occasional headaches
  
• Mood swings (hello hormones!)
  
• Light spotting in the first trimester
  

These are all part of the journey. Annoying? Yep. Dangerous? Usually not.

🚨 When to Call Your Doctor: Pregnancy Warning Signs

Some symptoms might signal a potential complication, and it’s so important to trust your gut. If something feels off, make the call. Always better to be safe than sorry.

Here are the top pregnancy complications to look out for:

1. Heavy Bleeding or Passing Clots

A little spotting can be normal early on, but if you’re soaking through a pad an hour or passing large clots, call your provider right away. This could be a sign of miscarriage, placental issues, or other complications.

2. Severe Abdominal Pain or Cramps

Mild cramps happen—but sharp, persistent pain could be a sign of ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, or preterm labor. If it doesn’t ease up with rest, it’s time to get checked out.

3. Sudden Swelling in Your Hands, Feet, or Face

A little swelling is normal, especially late in pregnancy. But sudden or severe swelling (especially with headaches or blurred vision) may signal preeclampsia, a serious condition that affects blood pressure. 【CDC Source】

4. Decreased Baby Movement (After 28 Weeks)

Feeling less movement than usual? Try drinking something cold and lying on your left side. Still not feeling much? Call your OB. Baby’s movement is a key sign they’re doing okay. 【Mayo Clinic Source】

5. Severe Headache That Won’t Go Away

This one’s tricky. Some headaches are hormone-related and totally harmless. But if it’s sudden, intense, or paired with vision changes or dizziness—it could be a sign of high blood pressure.

6. Painful Urination or Burning

This could mean a urinary tract infection, which is common during pregnancy but should be treated quickly to avoid complications.

7. High Fever Over 100.4°F

A fever during pregnancy could mean an infection that needs treatment ASAP. Always check with your doctor.

What If I’m Not Sure?

Even if your symptoms aren’t on this list, it’s still 100% okay to call your doctor or midwife if something doesn’t feel right. You are not being dramatic. You’re being proactive.

And if you don’t have a doctor yet or need help finding a provider? We’ve got you. Use our location finder to find a trusted pregnancy center near you that can walk with you through this. Many offer wellness referrals and early pregnancy services.

💗 You Deserve Support

Pregnancy isn’t always smooth sailing, and that’s okay. The most important thing is getting the support and care you need. Whether it’s a routine check-up or something more serious, you’re not alone—and there’s no such thing as a “silly question” when it comes to your health.

Need to talk to someone now? Call, text, or chat with our 24/7 support team. We’re here for you, always.