Complications & Concerns Understanding Warning Signs and Support

The Difference Between Discomforts and Complications

Pregnancy brings many normal physical changes. Some symptoms are expected and manageable, while others may require medical evaluation. Complications may involve conditions that affect maternal or fetal health and require closer monitoring.

Common discomforts may include mild cramping, back pain, swelling, and fatigue.

Learn about the most common pregnancy discomforts and how to manage them

When to Call Your Healthcare Provider

Contact your provider immediately if you experience:

• Heavy vaginal bleeding
• Severe abdominal pain
• Persistent severe headache
• Vision changes
• Sudden swelling of face or hands
• Decreased fetal movement
• Fever
• Fluid leakage

These symptoms may signal conditions requiring prompt care.

High-Risk Pregnancy

A pregnancy may be considered high-risk if there are factors that increase the likelihood of complications, such as chronic health conditions, multiple gestation, advanced maternal age, or a history of pregnancy complications. High-risk classification does not guarantee complications — it simply ensures closer monitoring.

Find out what makes a pregnancy high-risk and what that means for your care

Pregnancy Complications

Some medical conditions that may arise during pregnancy include gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, placenta previa, placental abruption, intrauterine growth restriction, and preterm labor. Understanding symptoms allows for early intervention.

Get a broad overview of the most common pregnancy complications

Find out how gestational diabetes is diagnosed, managed, and monitored

Learn about preeclampsia — symptoms, risks, and how it is managed

Understand placenta previa and how it affects pregnancy care

Learn about placental abruption and why it requires immediate care

Infections During Pregnancy

Certain infections can affect pregnancy and may require treatment. Prompt treatment often reduces risk. Examples include urinary tract infections, Group B strep, listeria, toxoplasmosis, STDs, and viral infections.

Understand the risks of STDs during pregnancy and how they are managed

Learn about listeria during pregnancy and how to reduce your risk

Genetic Disorders and Birth Defects

Some concerns relate to genetic or congenital conditions. Prenatal screening and diagnostic testing can help identify certain conditions early.

Explore genetic disorders and birth defects — what they are and how they are detected

Physical Warning Signs

Physical symptoms that may require evaluation include persistent severe cramping, vaginal bleeding, sudden decrease in fetal movement, severe swelling, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. If you experience urgent symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

Emotional Concerns During Pregnancy

Pregnancy can also affect emotional well-being. Feelings of anxiety, sadness, or overwhelm are not uncommon. Persistent emotional distress may benefit from medical or counseling support. Mental health is an important part of overall pregnancy care.

Understand the emotional changes that are common during pregnancy

Monitoring and Prevention

Many complications can be identified early through routine prenatal care. Healthy habits — including balanced nutrition, appropriate exercise, and regular appointments — support early detection and management.

Learn what to expect at prenatal visits and how consistent care supports a healthy pregnancy

Moving Forward With Awareness, Not Fear

Learning about potential complications is not meant to create anxiety — it empowers you with knowledge. Most pregnancies progress normally. When complications occur, early recognition and medical care significantly improve outcomes.¹

Start preparing for labor and birth when you are ready for the next stage