Many women who are pregnant for the first time experience many changes in their body. Most of these pregnancy symptoms and changes are normal but some are potentially dangerous for both the mother and the child.
Baby Centre shared some of the pregnancy symptoms that women should never ignore. If you experience any of these potentially dangerous pregnancy symptoms, do not hesitate to contact your doctor.
1. Tummy pain
Tummy pain is one of the most common pregnancy symptoms. Pregnant women who experience severe pain in their middle or upper tummy could be suffering from indigestion, heartburn or food poisoning. If this severe or sharp pain happens during the second half of your pregnancy, it could mean that you have preeclampsia.
Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication characterized by an increase in blood pressure and organ damage, according to Mayo Clinic. This condition requires immediate medical intervention.
If the severe pain is felt at either or both sides of the lower belly, calling a doctor is the best idea. Pulled ligament, ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, premature labor, fibroid bleeding and placental abruption are some of the possible causes of this kind of pain.
2. Fever
Fever can also be one of the most dangerous pregnancy symptoms if left unmanaged. Pregnant women with a temperature of 37.5 degrees Celsius with no symptoms of flu or cold should contact the doctor right away. A temperature of 39 degrees Celsius or higher is even more dangerous.
3. Visual problems.
Visual problems during the second half of pregnancy are potentially dangerous pregnancy symptoms. Pregnant women should go to the doctor if they experience visual problems such as double, blurry or dimmed vision as well as seeing flashing spots because these pregnancy symptoms might indicate preeclampsia.
4. Swelling or puffiness
Swollen hands, face and feet are common pregnancy symptoms and are usually harmless. "But if your swelling is severe or comes on suddenly, along with a headache or problems with your vision, you may have pre-eclampsia," Baby Centre advises.
5. Heavy bleeding
Vaginal spotting or very light vaginal bleeding is one of the most common early pregnancy symptoms. However, pregnant women should call their doctor immediately if the bleeding is accompanied by severe and persistent one-sided tummy pain or if the bleeding becomes heavy.