Pregnancy Symptoms: When to Call the Doctor

April 28, 2009 at 12:05 PM by Cafe Melisa - Comments (1)

I didn't call my midwife every two minutes when I was pregnant, but there were definitely some instances when my concern or instincts took over and I had to call for some reassurance over a specific symptom or new development. Late in my pregnancy, I felt the baby wasn't moving as much as she should have been. I called my midwife and she had me come in ASAP. Everything was fine, but I was glad I went in to be checked.

I see posts from CafeMoms all the time asking if they should call the doctor about some new symptom they're experiencing. Here's a list of what warrants a call.

Call your OB or midwife if you have any of the following:

-- severe cramping or abdominal pain

-- noticeable changes in your baby's movements after 28 weeks (if you can't count 10 movements in two hours or less)

-- difficulty breathing that seems to be getting worse

-- signs of possible premature labor, which may include regular pain in the lower abdomen or back, bleeding in the second or third trimester, leaking fluid, or pressure in the pelvis or vagina.

And if you're experiencing any other symptom that you aren't sure is serious, but it's worrisome to you or you just don't feel like yourself, trust your instincts and call.

For more on day-to-day concerns, if you haven't alraedy, connect wtih moms in Pregnancy, Pregnancy Questions and Concerns... Get Answers!, and High-Risk Pregnancies.

FILED UNDER: complications, pregnancy health, pregnancy symptoms