During your pregnancy, especially if it is your first, you will be concerned about when you should go to the doctor and when you don’t have to.
While it is usually just as a precaution, you should ring your doctor if any of these happen:
Pain across your stomach
While a sharp pain in your stomach can simply mean indigestion, it can also be a sign of pre-eclampsia, so it is important you get your doctor to check you out, even if it is to just put your mind at ease.
Pain in side of your belly
A pain in either side of your stomach can mean a number of things: a stitch, a pulled ligament or a cramp. It can also be a sign of something a little more serious. Pains in these areas can be an indication of an ectopic pregnancy or even premature labour. Make sure you give your doctor a ring if you are experiencing any pain across your stomach.
Headache
Headaches are common in pregnancy, especially as your hormones change. However, if it lasts for a prolonged period of time – more than three hours – you should seek medical attention. While it may be something simple, a headache is also a sign of dehydration and pre-eclampsia.
Spotting
Spotting at the early stages of pregnancy can simply be breakthrough bleeding, but if you experience persistent light or heavy bleeding accompanied by a pain in your side you should consult your doctor.
Thirsty
If you suddenly feel extremely thirsty but aren’t going to the toilet any more frequently, it could be a sign of dehydration which can cause complications for you and your baby. Make sure you mention it at your next ante natal appointment.
Dizziness
Dizziness can be an indication that you have low blood pressure but it is also a pretty common symptom during pregnancy. However, it is important you tell your doctor if you faint or are feeling dizzy frequently.
Leaking fluid
If it happens at the end of your pregnancy, leaking fluid can be an indication that you are going into labour. However, if it happens at the early stages, it can be s sign that your membranes have ruptured.
If you are worried about anything during your pregnancy, you should consult your doctor, even if you just have a feeling that something is not quite right.
