5 Symptoms a Pregnant Woman Should Tell Her Doctor

It may be difficult to decide which pregnancy symptoms you should bring to the attention of your doctor, because there are so many different symptoms that a woman may experience during the nine months of pregnancy. However, if you encounter any of the following signs or symptoms, contact your obstetrician immediately.

Vaginal Bleeding

Always report vaginal bleeding to your physician. Some women may experience normal spotting or light bleeding in the first trimester as a result of the baby implanting into the uterine wall. Although this is a common symptom, you should still bring it to the attention of your doctor. Bright-red, heavy bleeding accompanied by uterine cramping may indicate miscarriage and should be addressed.

Uterine Cramping or Stomach Pain

Bring uterine cramping or stomach pain, with or without bleeding, to the attention of your doctor. Uterine cramping may be a warning sign of miscarriage. Stomach pain could indicate severe indigestion, a stomach bug, food poisoning or preeclampsia--a serious condition that requires immediate attention, reports BabyCenter.

Severe Vomiting

Report vomiting more than two to three times a day in the first trimester, the onset of vomiting later in pregnancy or vomiting accompanied by pain and/or a temperature to your physician, states BabyCenter. Vomiting early in a pregnancy is a sign of hyperemesis gravidum, which may cause you to become dehydrated. If you experience vomiting later on in your pregnancy, it may be a warning sign of preeclampsia.

Leaking of Fluid from Vagina

Leaking of fluid from the vagina may indicate a break or tear in the amniotic sac. Report this to your physician immediately, as it may put you at risk for preterm labor. If you are at or near your due date, this may be the start of labor.

Severe Headache or Visual Changes

Symptoms that seem to occur with preeclampsia include persistent headaches, blurred vision or sensitivity to light and abdominal pain, reports the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Immediately bring any of these symptoms to the attention of your physician.