Pregnancy is an exciting and scary time for new parents-to-be. Many women will make multiple phone calls to their physician throughout the course of their pregnancy. There are many different signs and symptoms during pregnancy, but many women wonder which symptoms may be a sign of danger and which ones are considered normal. There are several dangerous symptoms during pregnancy that expectant parents should be aware of.
Vaginal Bleeding and Uterine Cramping
Vaginal bleeding and uterine cramping are dangerous symptoms during pregnancy. In the first trimester, this may be a symptom of miscarriage. Some women will experience bleeding and cramping at the time of implantation (1 to 2 weeks following conception) and go on to have a healthy pregnancy. Any vaginal bleeding should be reported to a physician for further evaluation. In the second and third trimester, vaginal bleeding may be a sign of a placental complication. Both placenta previa and placenta accreta may cause vaginal bleeding and require prompt medical attention. Vaginal bleeding and cramping may also be a symptom of pre-term, or term labor. Any women who thinks she may be in labor should consult her physician immediately.
Edema, Abdominal Pain, and Visual Changes
According to Baby Center, severe or sharp upper-to mid-abdominal pain, with or without nausea or vomiting, swelling or puffiness (also called oedema) of the hands, face and eyes and vision disturbances, such as double vision, blurring, dimming, flashing spots or lights that last for more than two hours may be dangerous symptoms during pregnancy. These may be symptoms of a condition known as pre-eclampsia, which is the development of dangerously high blood pressure during pregnancy. If left untreated, it may lead to the development of a maternal seizure which can cause a lack of oxygen to the mother and fetus.
Depression
According to the American Pregnancy Association, about 10-20 percent of women will struggle with some symptoms of depression during pregnancy and a quarter to half of these will suffer from major depression. Dangerous symptoms of depression can include sadness, insomnia, recurring thoughts about suicide or death, anxiety and feelings of guilt. If depression is left untreated, it may lead to a dangerous situation for both the mother and child. Women who experience signs and symptoms of depression should contact their obstetrician immediately for help.
