When to contact a doctor — even if contractions haven’t started yet

⏱️ Reading time: 1 minute

Pregnancy is a time when your body can send many different signals. Most of them are normal. But there are signs that shouldn’t be ignored or “waited out,” even if labor hasn’t begun yet.

Below is a short checklist of situations in which it’s important to contact a doctor or go to the hospital without delay.

🔴 Vaginal bleeding

Any vaginal bleeding in the second half of pregnancy.

💧 Leakage of amniotic fluid that isn’t clear

Amniotic fluid should be clear.

Green or brown fluid, or fluid mixed with blood, is a reason for urgent medical assessment.

📈 High blood pressure

Readings above 140/100 mmHg, especially if your blood pressure was previously normal.

👁 Vision changes

If you notice:

spots or “floaters” in your vision

flashing or flickering

a sensation of “snow,” haze, or a veil

🚼 Noticeable decrease in fetal movements

If your baby is moving much less than usual or movements are barely noticeable.

⚡ Sharp or worsening pain

Pain that:

interferes with everyday activities

becomes stronger over time

is difficult to tolerate or ignore

💬 Swelling

A sudden increase in swelling — especially in the hands and face.

🧡

In these situations, seeking help is normal and the right thing to do. Caring for your health and your baby’s health always comes first.

Sources

Signs and Symptoms of Urgent Maternal Warning Signs, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, https://www.cdc.gov/hearher/maternal-warning-signs/index.html. Accessed 3 Feb 2026.

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) clinical guidance on obstetric emergencies, https://www.acog.org/programs/obstetric-emergencies-in-nonobstetric-settings. Accessed 3 Feb 2026.

Counselling for Maternal and Newborn Health Care: A Handbook for Building Skills. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2013. Chapter 8, Danger Signs in Pregnancy. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK304178. Accessed 3 Feb 2026.