Recognizing warning signs during pregnancy

Recognizing warning signs during pregnancy: what to do in an emergency

The pregnant lady’s guide

It is important to educate pregnant ladies about what to do in cases of an emergency, because acting right during an unexpected emergency will lead to better maternal and fetal outcomes.

1. Heavy vaginal bleeding:

• Stay calm, don’t panic
• Avoid inserting anything (like a finger) inside the vagina
• Call an ambulance immediately
• Go to the nearest hospital
• Bring all of your prenatal records if possible
• If offered admission for observation accept it and don’t sign any paper against medical advice

2. Severe abdominal pain:

• Stop any physical activity
• Rest in a comfortable position
• Drink some water if you are dehydrated
• Seek medical help immediately
• Don’t take analgesia before medical assessment
• If offered admission for observation accept it and don’t sign any paper against medical advice

3. Decreased fetal movements:

• Sit on your left side
• Eat something sweet if not diabetic
• Focus on the fetal movements for 2 hours, if less than 10 kicks then you should seek medical help
• Fetal movements are only reliable after 28 weeks of gestation

4. What to do if your water breaks early:

• Note the color and amount of fluid
• Avoid sexual intercourse
• Don’t insert anything inside the vagina
• Seek medical help immediately
• Must go for the hospital for evaluation because of increased risk of infection

When to call emergency services immediately:

• Severe chest pain: risk of myocardial infarction or pulmonary embolism
• Difficulty breathing: risk of pulmonary embolism
• Convulsions: risk of maternal/fetal anoxia
• Loss of consciousness
• Severe headache with visual disturbance (risk of preeclampsia)
• Severe trauma
• Heavy bleeding
• No fetal movements

Important notes to keep in mind during pregnancy in case any emergency happened:

• Keep your doctor’s phone number with you
• Know which hospital is nearest to you
• Keep a hospital bag prepared
• Keep your prenatal records accessible and with you
• Keep a family member informed for cases of emergency

Being prepared, recognizing the warning signs and responding in a timely manner ensures the safety of both the mother and baby.

Dr Najeeb Layyous  F.R.C.O.G

Consultant Obstetrician, Gynecologist and Infertility Specialist