Pregnancy is a beautiful and transformative journey for mothers-to-be, but it also brings about various changes and symptoms that can be concerning. While some symptoms are considered normal during pregnancy, others may indicate underlying issues that require medical attention. It is essential for expecting mothers to be aware of what to expect and when to seek help. In this article, we will delve into what are considered not normal pregnancy symptoms.
1. Severe Abdominal Pain
While mild cramping is common during pregnancy as the uterus expands, severe abdominal pain that is persistent and accompanied by other symptoms such as fever or vaginal bleeding could indicate a potential problem like an ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage.
2. Sudden Swelling
While some swelling in the feet and ankles is normal during pregnancy, sudden and severe swelling in the face, hands, or around the eyes could be a sign of preeclampsia, a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.
3. Excessive Vomiting
Morning sickness is common in pregnancy, but constant and severe vomiting that leads to dehydration and weight loss may be a sign of hyperemesis gravidarum, a condition that requires medical treatment to prevent complications.
4. Persistent Headaches
While headaches can occur during pregnancy due to hormonal changes, persistent and severe headaches that are not relieved by rest or medications could be a sign of preeclampsia or other complications that need evaluation by a healthcare provider.
5. Decreased Fetal Movement
Feeling your baby move regularly is a sign of a healthy pregnancy. A noticeable decrease in fetal movements or no movements at all could indicate fetal distress and should be reported to your healthcare provider immediately for assessment.
6. Vaginal Bleeding
While spotting can be common in early pregnancy, heavy vaginal bleeding with or without cramping could indicate a more serious issue like placental abruption or miscarriage, requiring prompt medical care.
7. High Fever
Fever during pregnancy can sometimes be a sign of infection, which can pose risks to both the mother and the baby. A high fever accompanied by chills or other symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare provider promptly.
8. Persistent Itching
While some itching on the skin is normal during pregnancy due to stretching, persistent and intense itching, especially on the hands and feet, could be a sign of a liver condition called cholestasis of pregnancy that requires monitoring and treatment.
9. Difficulty Breathing
Shortness of breath can be common in later stages of pregnancy as the growing uterus presses on the diaphragm. However, sudden and severe shortness of breath accompanied by chest pain or rapid heart rate could indicate a serious issue like blood clots in the lungs.
10. Severe Back or Pelvic Pain
While back pain is common in pregnancy due to changes in posture and hormone levels, severe and persistent back or pelvic pain that is not relieved by rest could be a sign of conditions like preterm labor or urinary tract infections that need medical attention.
11. Vision Changes
Blurry vision or spots in front of the eyes during pregnancy could be a sign of gestational diabetes or high blood pressure, both of which require monitoring and management to prevent complications for the mother and baby.
12. Suicidal Thoughts
Experiencing feelings of hopelessness, extreme sadness, or thoughts of self-harm during pregnancy could be a sign of perinatal depression, a serious condition that requires prompt intervention and support from healthcare professionals to ensure the well-being of both the mother and baby.
