Life
Getting pregnant brings dozens of changes to your body in a matter of weeks (and, in some cases, days). For some women, the symptoms are hardly noticeable and make for an easy 10 months. For others, however, the symptoms take a toll on the body that makes pregnancy downright miserable. Although many of the most unpleasant signs of pregnancy are totally common, some of them are cause for concern. There are a few pregnancy symptoms you shouldn't assume are normal and that need to get checked out by your OB-GYN.
Obviously you don't want to be overly paranoid when you're pregnant, but you also don't want to ignore something only to find out that it's actually kind of serious. If you've got a supportive doctor, they won't mind double-checking your symptoms either. (And if you don't have a supportive doctor, please get one ASAP). If it's serious, they can help you figure out how to treat the issue and keep you and your baby safe. If it's not serious, then at the very least you'll still have gained peace of mind from knowing everything is fine.
Here are nine symptoms that are definitely worth a call or visit to your healthcare provider.
1
Bleeding
Bleeding in pregnancy, especially early on, can be quite common. But even though it's not very unusual, bleeding should be checked out by a doctor according to Fox News. It can be a sign of several different complications, including miscarriage, an ectopic pregnancy, or a problem with your placenta. I got mysterious episodes of bleeding checked out several times when I was pregnant with my daughter, and though I never got an explanation as to what was causing it, thankfully I went on to deliver a healthy baby.
2
Extreme Nausea
There's a good chance that morning sickness will strike at some point during pregnancy, and you may even find yourself running to the bathroom be sick. But if you're constantly throwing up, your doctor needs to know according to Parents. It could be hyperemesis gravidarium, which sometimes lands pregnant women in the hospital. Your doctor can prescribe medication to help you cope.
3
Painful Cramps Or Back Ache
Period-like cramps and an achy back are pretty common in pregnancy. But the American Pregnancy Association (APA) noted that painful cramps can be signs of a miscarriage, and should be brought to your doctor's attention ASAP.
4
Pain In Your Side
According to APA, pain that's located on just one side of your belly could be a sign of an ectopic pregnancy, a condition in which the egg implants outside the uterus. This can be a danger to baby and mothers, and should be looked at immediately.
5
Shoulder Or Neck Pain
If you're experiencing shoulder or neck pain while pregnant, it can be another sign of an ectopic pregnancy according to Kids Health. Of course, it's much more likely that you simply slept in a funny position or something much more innocuous. But if you're having severe pain, you should talk it over with your doctor just to make sure.
6
Excessive Thirst Or Hunger
When you're eating or drinking for two, you're obviously going to need a little more than usual. But Healthline noted that excessive hunger or thirst can be signs of gestational diabetes. This condition can lead to health issues for your and your baby, so it's worth talking to your doctor about as soon as possible.
7
Frequent Dizzy Spells
Dizzy spells can plague pregnant women. If you get dizzy often and the feelings don't go away after you lie down or have a little something to eat, Baby Center noted that you should check in with your doctor to figure out what's causing it.
8
Swelling
Swelling in your legs and feet is pretty common during pregnancy, especially if you've been active or it's hot outside. But if the swelling comes on fast in your hands or face, your doctor will want to check whether you've got preeclampsia according to Stanford Children's Hospital.
9
Feelings Of Depression
Getting pregnant can stir up a mix of emotions, from joy to anxiety and fear. But if you're feeling more negative emotions about your pregnancy, Baby Center suggested speaking to your doctor. Depression during pregnancy is one of the biggest factors in developing postpartum depression, so the sooner you get treated the better.
