When to Go to the Emergency Room When Pregnant

Pregnancy is possibly the most exciting time of your life but with the excitement of your impending parenthood also comes the beginning of the stress of ensuring the safety of your child. There are some things that may not feel normal but which actually are, and then there are other symptoms that require immediate medical attention. It is very important that you know when you should call your doctor and when you should go straight to the emergency room during pregnancy. While some symptoms are normal, you know your body the best so if you feel something is not right, do not hesitate to go to the emergency room.

Sudden Decrease in Fetal movement

Once your baby starts moving, you should be able to determine some kind of schedule of when the baby is awake, when they are resting and how often they give you a quick jab in the ribs. If that movement ever decreases or you go more than a few hours without feeling any movement, you should go straight to the emergency room or call your OB. If you are alone or do not have a ride, call 911 immediately.

Vaginal bleeding

A little bit of vaginal bleeding is common in most stages of pregnancy although if it gets to be similar to a period or worse, then you should go to the emergency room. This can be the early stages of a very serious complication in your pregnancy that requires immediate medical attention. Additionally, if the bleeding is coupled with abdominal pain, then it is even more urgent that you receive immediate medical attention.

Headaches/changes in vision

Quick onset changes in vision coupled with a severe headache can be the early signs of preeclampsia – a very serious condition that can cause seizures during labor as well as placental abruptions. This can be a potentially deadly condition for both you and your baby, although if your doctor is aware of the condition, there are steps they can take during delivery to prevent any further complications. If you experience this type of headache, you should go directly to the emergency room.

Contractions

Some contractions are considered Braxton Hicks, or false labor, but others can be a sign of labor or even early labor. These contractions tell you it is time to get to the hospital. If your contractions are felt deep in the lower back, make you unable to walk through them or are 5 minutes apart for over an hour, you need to get directly to the hospital.

If you experience any of these symptoms and decide to seek immediate medical attention, be sure to call the emergency room on your way so they can expect an expectant mother with possible complications. The more notice they have that you are on your way, the more prepared they will be for you. Your Bulverde emergency room is more than qualified to handle any kind of emergency ensuring the top-quality care for you and your unborn baby. Contact us at Physicians Premier for more information today.