Pregnancy and Antenatal Care
Pregnancy warning signs: when to get help straight away
Most pregnancies go well, but some symptoms need urgent medical attention. Knowing them can protect you and your baby.
Trust yourself
You know your body best. If something feels wrong, do not wait for your next appointment. Contact your healthcare provider or go to the nearest health facility.
Go to a health facility immediately if you have
- Bleeding from the vagina
- Fits or convulsions
- A severe headache, especially with blurred vision
- Severe pain in your belly
- Fever, or feeling too weak to get out of bed
- Fast or difficult breathing
- Your baby moving less than usual, or not at all, later in pregnancy
- Sudden swelling of your face, hands or feet
- Fluid leaking from the vagina before labour has started
Plan ahead
Talk with your family about how you would get to a health facility quickly, day or night. Keep important phone numbers saved and know where your nearest facility is.
Ask your healthcare provider which other symptoms they would like you to report for your particular pregnancy.