Pregnancy Guide, Practical Help & Your Story  ·  Clear support for every stage

General information only. Always follow advice from your own doctor or midwife. In an emergency, call your maternity unit or emergency services.

When to act fast

Call your doctor immediately if you notice:

If you experience any of the following, contact your maternity unit, doctor or emergency services without delay.

Vaginal bleeding

Any fresh, heavy, or persistent bleeding in pregnancy needs urgent review.

Severe headache or visual changes

Sudden, strong headache, blurred vision, or flashing lights can be signs of serious conditions and require immediate assessment.

Reduced or no baby movements

If your baby is moving less than usual, or you cannot feel movements, contact your maternity unit straight away.

Fever

A temperature, especially with chills, pain or feeling unwell, may signal infection and needs prompt assessment.

Sudden swelling, chest pain or breathlessness

Rapid swelling of face, hands or feet, chest pain, or difficulty breathing can be emergencies — seek help immediately.

In an emergency

If you are very unwell, in severe pain, or worried something is seriously wrong, do not wait — contact emergency services or go to the nearest hospital.