Updated: October 2012. Planned review date: October 2014

 When to call your doctor or midwife

In many cases the symptoms in this section will not indicate anything serious and will be treated easily. Occasionally though they are signs of a more serious complaint so please do seek help where indicated.

It is important to remember that the information in this section is about what could potentially go wrong, but this doesn't mean it definitely will.

We believe in empowering women to understand what is happening within their bodies at this crucial time and to know when they need to ask for extra care. We advise that you navigate this information when you are looking for specific information on a symptom so as not to worry yourself unnecessarily.

If you have more questions, you can always ring our midwives on Tommy's PregnancyLine for free on 0800 0147 800.

I have a pain in my stomach area

Some pain in the abdomen/stomach area is normal in pregnancy.

Find out what to do if you have persistent pain.

Back to top

I am leaking fluid

A slight increase in discharge/fluid during pregnancy is normal.

Find out what types of discharges to contact your doctor or midwife about.

Back to top

I have a very high temperature

Temperatures are common, but they can be a symptom of something more serious. Find out what to do if you your temperature is very high.

Back to top

I have diarrhoea and I am vomiting

Stomach bugs in pregnancy are common.

If you experience other symptoms as well, you may need medical care.

Back to top

My vision is blurred and I see flashing spots

Blurred vision may be a symptom of other conditions.

Find out what to do if you are experiencing this.

Back to top

My hands and feet are swollen

Puffiness and swelling of hands and feet is common in late pregnancy.

Find out what to do if the swelling is severe.

Back to top

I have a severe headache that will not go away

Mild headaches can be caused by hormones and are common in pregnancy.

Find out what to do if your headache is severe and won't go away.

Back to top

I am bleeding

Bleeding is not uncommon.

Find out what to do if you are experiencing this.

Back to top

My baby's movements have slowed down

Your baby's movements will vary at different stages in pregnancy.

Find out more about movements at different stages.

Back to top

I itch all over

Some itching is perfectly normal. Find out what to do if the itching is severe.

Back to top

I am constantly vomiting

Throwing up is very common in early pregnancy.

Find out what to do if the vomiting is persistent.

Back to top

Urinating is painful

This may be a symptom of infection.

Find out what to do if you are experiencing this.

Back to top

My bump is not getting any bigger

How your 'bump' is growing will be monitored throughout your pregnancy.

Find out what to do if you have concerns.

Back to top

I just think something is wrong

If you are worried about something, have the confidence to ask for medical help.

Find out what to do if are concerned about something.

Back to top

My midwife is not listening to me

If you feel your concerns are questions are not being answered, there are things you can do.

Find out what you are entitled to.

Back to top