Danger signs in pregnancy you should never ignore

Why this matters

Most pregnancies go well, but serious problems can develop quickly. Getting to a hospital early can save the life of the mother and the baby.

Go to Emergency immediately if you have

• Vaginal bleeding at any stage of pregnancy
• Severe headache, blurred vision or swelling of the face and hands
• Convulsions (fits) or fainting
• Severe abdominal pain
• Fever with chills
• Your baby moving less than usual, or not at all, after 28 weeks
• Water leaking from the vagina before labor

Plan ahead

Decide now how you will reach the hospital at night or on a holiday. Keep a phone number for transport, some money and your antenatal card ready. Tell a family member where you will go.

Don't wait to see if it passes

Many women delay because they don't want to trouble anyone. In pregnancy it is always better to be checked and reassured than to wait at home.