Most pregnancies are uncomplicated. But complications can happen suddenly to anyone, and many are treatable when care is reached quickly. Knowing these signs helps you act in time.

Seek medical help immediately if you have:

• Vaginal bleeding at any stage of pregnancy
• Severe headache, flashing lights, or vision changes - possible signs of pre-eclampsia
• Sudden swelling of the face or hands
• Convulsions or loss of consciousness
• Severe abdominal pain that does not settle with rest
• Fever or chills
• Waters breaking or regular contractions before 37 weeks
• A noticeable decrease or absence of fetal movements in the third trimester
• Shortness of breath or severe weakness
• Vomiting that prevents you from eating or drinking

What to prepare in advance

• Save your doctor's phone number and the hospital or birth centre contact
• Decide how you will get to hospital during the day and at night
• Tell your partner or close family about these signs - sometimes they may need to help make the decision

The main rule

If in doubt, seek care. An extra check is safe; delay during a real complication is not. No healthcare provider will blame you for being cautious.

This list is based on WHO counselling materials and does not replace instructions from your healthcare provider.