Alert! The Importance of Knowing the Danger Signs of Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a very important period in a woman's life. During this time, the body experiences many changes that can affect the health of the mother and fetus. Although most pregnancies proceed without serious complications, it is important to know the danger signs that could indicate a problem. Awareness of these signs can help in taking quick and appropriate action, which can ultimately save the lives of mother and baby.

1. Bleeding from the birth canal

Bleeding from the birth canal, especially in the second and third trimesters, is one of the most serious danger signs. This could indicate several conditions, such as:

• Miscarriage: In the first trimester, bleeding can be a sign of miscarriage, especially if accompanied by severe stomach cramps.
• Placenta previa: Placenta previa is a condition in which the placenta covers part or all of the cervix. This can cause painless but dangerous bleeding in the third trimester.
• Placental abruption: This is a condition where the placenta detaches from the uterine wall before delivery, which can cause severe bleeding and be life-threatening for the mother and baby.

2. Severe Abdominal Pain

Severe and persistent abdominal pain should not be ignored during pregnancy. Some possible causes include:

• Ectopic pregnancy: This occurs when the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube. Ectopic pregnancy can cause sharp pain in the lower abdomen and requires immediate medical attention.
• Placental abruption: Apart from bleeding, placental abruption can also cause sudden, severe abdominal pain.
• Preeclampsia: Upper abdominal pain accompanied by nausea, vomiting, or blurred vision can be a sign of preeclampsia, a serious condition characterized by high blood pressure

3. Reduced or Unfelt Fetal Movement

Fetal movement is an important indicator of a baby’s health in the womb. Pregnant women should start to feel fetal movement between the 18th and 22nd weeks of pregnancy. If a previously active fetus suddenly becomes less active or stops moving altogether, it could be a red flag.

• Fetal Arrest: Reduced fetal movement may indicate that the baby is under stress or not receiving enough oxygen. This can lead to fetal arrest or even fetal death in the womb.
• Umbilical Cord Issues: Sometimes, the umbilical cord can become pinched or wrapped around the baby, reducing blood and oxygen flow to the fetus.

4. High Blood Pressure and Excessive Swelling

High blood pressure during pregnancy, especially when accompanied by swelling in the hands, feet, or face, can be a sign of preeclampsia. Preeclampsia is a serious condition that occurs after 20 weeks of pregnancy and can affect both mother and baby. Other symptoms include:

• Protein in Urine: Preeclampsia is often identified by the presence of protein in the urine, which indicates kidney damage.
• Visual Disturbances: Blurred vision, light spots, or temporary loss of vision are other warning signs of preeclampsia.
• Severe Headache: A headache that doesn't go away despite taking medication could signal very high blood pressure.

5. High Fever and Chills

A high fever accompanied by chills, body aches, or other symptoms such as coughing or difficulty breathing could indicate a serious infection requiring immediate medical attention. Some infections that can harm pregnancy include:

• Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): A UTI is a common infection during pregnancy and can spread to the kidneys if left untreated. Symptoms include fever, pain during urination, and back pain.
• Viral or Bacterial Infections: Infections such as influenza or pneumonia can be very dangerous for both the pregnant woman and the fetus if not treated properly.

6. Premature Rupture of Membranes

The rupture of membranes is an early sign that labor may be imminent. However, if the membranes rupture before 37 weeks of pregnancy, it is known as premature rupture of membranes (PROM), which can lead to serious complications such as:

• Infection: When the membranes rupture, the risk of infection increases because the fetus loses its natural protection.
• Preterm Labor: PROM often leads to preterm labor, which can be risky for the baby since their organs may not be fully developed.

7. Excessive Vomiting

Excessive vomiting during pregnancy, especially if it continues beyond the first trimester, may indicate hyperemesis gravidarum. This condition is more severe than typical nausea and can cause dehydration, weight loss, and serious electrolyte imbalances. Signs to watch for include:

• Vomiting more than three to four times a day.
• Difficulty keeping fluids or food down.
• Weight loss of more than 5% of your pre-pregnancy weight.

8. Shortness of Breath or Chest Pain

Severe shortness of breath or chest pain during pregnancy can be a sign of pulmonary embolism, a blood clot that has moved to the lungs. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. Other symptoms include:

• Rapid heartbeat.
• Dizziness or fainting.
• Coughing up blood.

9. Seizures

Seizures during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, can be a sign of eclampsia, a severe complication of preeclampsia. Eclampsia is a very serious condition and can be fatal if left untreated. Other symptoms of eclampsia include:

• Loss of consciousness.
• Confusion or abnormal behavior.
• Blurred vision.

10. Severe Itching, Especially at Night

Severe itching, particularly on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, can be a sign of obstetric cholestasis, a liver disorder that can occur during pregnancy. This condition can lead to elevated levels of bile acids in the blood, which is risky for the fetus. Other symptoms to watch for include:

• Dark-colored urine.
• Pale-colored stools.
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice).

Recognizing danger signs during pregnancy is crucial for maintaining the health of both the mother and fetus. If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, contact medical personnel immediately for proper evaluation and treatment. Never hesitate to seek medical help if something feels wrong, as quick action can save lives. Always maintain good communication with your doctor or midwife, and have regular pregnancy check-ups to ensure a healthy and safe pregnancy. RSU Hermina Purwokerto has obstetricians and gynecologists available for consultation.

Access to registration can be done in the following 4 ways:
1. Download the mobile application on Playstore (Type Hello Hermina)
2. Call Call Center 1500488
3. Via website -> www.herminahospitals.com
4. Via the Mobile JKN application

Reference :

1. American Pregnancy Association. (n.d.). "Pregnancy Complications." Retrieved from https://americanpregnancy.org
2. World Health Organization (WHO). (2018). "Managing Complications in Pregnancy and Childbirth: A Guide for Midwives and Doctors." Retrieved from https://www.who.int/publications
3. Mayo Clinic. (2021). "Pregnancy Week by Week: Warning Signs During Pregnancy." Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org
4. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). (2022). "Antenatal Care for Uncomplicated Pregnancies." Retrieved from https://www.nice.org.uk
5. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2020). "Pregnancy Complications." Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov