Obstetric Emergency
Dear mamas, please never postpone medical attention when you notice any of the following signs. Obstetric emergencies can occur at any stage of pregnancy and require immediate hospital care.
Bleeding During Pregnancy
- Any bleeding—even a drop—must be reported
- Severe pain and bleeding early in pregnancy may suggest ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage
- Bleeding in late pregnancy may signal placental abruption
Other Warning Signs
- Severe cramps or lower back pain
- Dizziness or fainting
- Severe vomiting or fever
- High blood pressure symptoms (headaches, nosebleeds, blurred vision)
- Sudden swelling of hands, face, or feet
- Decreased baby movements
- Early intense contractions (before 37 weeks)
- Water breaking prematurely
- Blackouts or seizures
- Persistent, severe headaches unrelieved by rest or medication
Note: If you experience any of these symptoms, go to the hospital immediately. Your health and your baby’s life depend on timely care.
YOU PUT TOMORROW AS WHAT YOU HAVE TO DO IMMEDIATELY
Your health matters. Don’t delay care—if you notice any of the symptoms below, please go to the hospital immediately.
An obstetric emergency may arise at any time during pregnancy, labour, or delivery. Hospital care is essential, as these situations may require urgent intervention and specialist care.
Warning Signs That Require Immediate Medical Attention
- Any bleeding during pregnancy – Even a drop is not normal. Call your doctor or midwife immediately.
- Heavy bleeding with severe stomach pain in early pregnancy – Could be a sign of ectopic pregnancy.
- Heavy bleeding with cramping in the first trimester – May indicate a miscarriage.
- Bleeding with abdominal pain in the last trimester – Could signal placental abruption.
- Stomach cramps – Especially with bleeding, may point to ectopic pregnancy.
- Dizziness – A warning sign of ectopic pregnancy or pre-eclampsia.
- Severe vomiting or sickness – May be extreme pregnancy symptoms or infection.
- Severe stomach pain or lower back pain – Possible signs of pre-eclampsia.
- Rapid increase in blood pressure – Look out for headaches, dizziness, or nosebleeds.
- Blurry vision and persistent headaches – Red flags for pre-eclampsia.
- Sudden, significant swelling in hands, face, or feet – Also linked to pre-eclampsia.
- Fever – May indicate infection.
- Decreased baby movement – Always report reduced or absent fetal movement.
- Intense, regular contractions before 37 weeks – May be a sign of premature labour.
- Water breaking before labour begins – A gush or trickle of fluid with a sweet smell requires urgent attention.
- Loss of consciousness or seizures – Must be taken very seriously and treated immediately.
- Severe, persistent headaches – Especially if not eased with rest or medication.
Note: If you notice any of the signs above, RUN TO THE HOSPITAL IMMEDIATELY. Do not wait until tomorrow. Your health and your baby's life could depend on it.