The Pennsylvania Department of Health is advising people to recognize warning signs of pregnancy-related health problems, which can occur during pregnancy and up to one year after delivery.
Urgent maternal warning signs include:
- A headache that does not go away or worsens
- Dizziness or fainting
- Changes in vision
- A fever of 100.4 degrees or higher
- Extreme swelling of the hands or face
- Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby
- Trouble breathing
- Chest pain or a fast heartbeat
- Severe nausea and vomiting
- Severe, persistent abdominal pain
- A baby’s movement stopping or slowing during pregnancy
- Severe swelling, redness or pain in a leg or arm
- Vaginal bleeding or fluid leaking during pregnancy
- Heavy vaginal bleeding or discharge after pregnancy
- Overwhelming tiredness
Anyone experiencing these symptoms or feeling that something is wrong should contact a healthcare professional.
More information is available at health.pa.gov/maternalhealth.
Photo credits to Pennsylvania Department of Health
