We all experience some strange symptoms when we're expecting, and from time to time, symptoms are cause for concern.
Here are 12 things you definitely shouldn't ignore during pregnancy...
Abdominal pain and cramps
It isn’t unusual to have some cramping very early on in pregnancy but beyond the first weeks, all abdominal pain and cramping should be investigated.
Decrease in baby movements
If you notice a dramatic slow-down of your baby’s movements after 21 weeks – or feel no movement at all in a 24-hour period – talk to your doctor.
Burning sensation when you pee
If urinating burns or is painful, check it out with your doctor. If you also develop a fever and backache, it could be serious.
Vaginal bleeding or unusual discharge
Some women do experience bleeding in early pregnancy but generally, if you experience vaginal bleeding – particularly if the blood is fresh and bright red – or you notice any discharge that is unusual for you, you should consult your doctor.
Onset of nausea/ vomiting
Persistent nausea/ vomiting in later pregnancy (long after your morning sickness has dissipated) could be cause for concern, especially if accompanied by pain or fever.
Leaking fluid
Aside from the rare little ‘accident’ that’s the result of a pregnant bladder under pressure, you should never leak fluid. This fluid is likely to be amniotic and as such, is a serious concern.
Persistent dizziness or fainting
Dizziness is common enough during pregnancy, but it's unusual for this symptom to persist into the second and third trimester.
Blurred vision
If your vision becomes blurry, or you suffer from vision disturbances such as white lights or flashes, dots in front of your eyes, double vision or dimming, see your doctor for advice.
Sudden thirst
This is particularly worrying if you're not urinating very much.
Swelling of hands, feet and face out of the blue
This swelling (called oedema) can be symptomatic of several medical conditions so have it checked by your doctor immediately.
Severe headaches
Some pregnant women suffer from more headaches than usual in early pregnancy because of the increase of hormones in their system, but if you are suffering from severe headaches that last more than a couple of hours, this could indicate there is a medical problem.
Itchiness all over
This is more likely in late pregnancy and may be accompanied by dark urine and pale stools.
