Symptoms that occur during pregnancy may be normal (see Normal Pregnancy: Physical Changes During Pregnancy) or may indicate a problem. A problem may be related to the pregnancy or to another disorder, and evaluation by a doctor may be required. Some symptoms should always be reported immediately to a doctor. They include

• Persistent or unusual headaches
• Persistent nausea and vomiting
• Dizziness
• Vision problems
• Pain or cramps in the lowest part of the torso (pelvic pain)
• Contractions
• Vaginal bleeding
• Leakage of amniotic fluid (described as "the water breaks")
• Swelling of the hands or feet
• Decreased urination
• Any illness or infection
• Shaking (tremor) of the hands, feet, or both
• Seizures
• A racing heart
• Decreased movement of the fetus

Last full review/revision May 2012 by R. Phillips Heine, MD; R. Phillips Heine, MD