5 Signs of a Pregnancy Complication – and When To Seek Help

Pregnancy is a time of anticipation and big changes. And while you’re preparing your home and your heart for your new little one, it’s important to be aware that complications can develop that require medical attention.

While not every unusual symptom means something is wrong, knowing what to look out for can help you protect both your and your baby’s health. It’s always best to seek medical care if you’re concerned, and there are certain warning signs that you should never ignore.

At Memorial Springs ER, we provide compassionate, expert care for women experiencing pregnancy complications in Spring, Texas. If you notice any of the following symptoms, don’t wait — seeking help quickly can make all the difference.

1. Heavy vaginal bleeding

Light spotting in early pregnancy can be normal, but heavy bleeding can be a sign of a serious complication, especially if it’s accompanied by cramping or clots. Any bleeding later in pregnancy should be evaluated right away, as it could be a sign of placental problems, early labor, or miscarriage.

2. Severe abdominal or pelvic pain

Some discomfort during pregnancy is normal as your body changes, but sharp, persistent, or intense pain in your abdomen or pelvis could be serious. If the pain is sudden or worsening, seek care immediately, and don’t worry if it turns out to be “nothing serious.” Even Braxton Hicks contractions can be concerning, and it’s better to know the cause.

3. Sudden swelling, headaches, or vision changes

If you experience swelling in your face or hands along with severe headaches, vision disturbances (like blurriness or seeing spots), it might be a sign of high blood pressure or preeclampsia. Left untreated, preeclampsia can be dangerous for both you and your baby, so timely medical attention is critical.

4. Decreased fetal movement

Most women start noticing fetal movement around weeks 20-24 of pregnancy. As your pregnancy progresses, you’ll get to know what’s normal for your baby. A sudden decrease in kicks, rolls, or other activity can be a red flag, so if you notice significantly less movement than usual, call your OB/GYN, or seek emergency care.

5. High fever or signs of infection

A fever above 100.4°F, chills, burning with urination, or unusual vaginal discharge may signal an infection that could affect your pregnancy. Prompt evaluation and treatment are important to keep both you and your baby safe.

When to go to the ER for pregnancy complications

If you experience any of these warning signs, it’s always better to be safe and get checked promptly. At Memorial Springs ER, our experienced emergency physicians are available 24/7 to evaluate and manage many of the most common pregnancy-related complications.

With advanced diagnostic tools, onsite ultrasounds, and a compassionate approach, we’re here to provide the care and reassurance you need during critical moments. Once you’re stable, we coordinate care as needed with your OB/GYN or hospital.

Pregnancy is a special journey, and knowing when to seek help can give you peace of mind and help prevent complications from becoming emergencies. Always trust your instincts — if something doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to seek care. Book an appointment at Memorial Springs ER online, or call us at 346-683-2057 today.