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When to Call Your Doctor During Trimester 1

Written by Dr. Kirilyuk Inna Anatolyivna on Fri, 01 December 2023 — Fact checked by Dr. Iunis Galina Ivanovna

Key Highlights

  • During Trimester 1, light bleeding may be normal; severe bleeding or pain could signal serious issues like a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy.
  • Common symptoms like morning sickness, swelling, and skin changes are typically part of a normal pregnancy.
  • Excessive vomiting, urinary problems, severe headaches, and significant weight changes require immediate medical attention.
  • Persistent severe pain, especially in the abdomen or shoulder, should not be ignored and needs a doctor’s evaluation.
  • When in doubt about any symptoms' severity, always consult a healthcare provider for guidance and reassurance.
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Signs You Should Be Alert About

As you prepare for the arrival of your child, pregnancy is a period of significant change for your body and your life. It may also be a moment when you are concerned about some of the changes you are going through and are unsure of when you ought to get assistance.

Even though it happens frequently, bleeding during the first trimester of pregnancy does not always indicate that you are having a miscarriage. But it's crucial to see a doctor and receive the appropriate care. They will treat you and appropriately guide you.

Let us discuss when to consult the doctor during the first trimester.

Pregnancy Discomforts

Are you wondering should I see a doctor if something does not feel right during pregnancy? Pregnancy brings uncomfortable changes in your body, most of which are not serious and there is nothing to worry about.

It is important to know the red flags or the signs that indicate that you might have a problem during pregnancy.

What Is Normal During Pregnancy?

Some changes in your body during pregnancy that might be normal are:

  • Stomach issues: Morning sickness is a normal part of pregnancy due to the hormonal changes in the body. You may have bloating, acidity, nausea, or vomiting which is normal. Additionally, you may also feel constipated at times.
  • Swelling: Your face, hands, and feet might exhibit light swelling.
  • Urge to urinate: The uterus expands during pregnancy, gradually to accommodate the growing foetus, which puts pressure on your pelvic area. This may lead to an urge to urinate more often.
  • Skin Changes: Your face or abdomen may turn darker, while you are expecting a baby.
  • Aches and pains: You tend to experience back or leg pain, or extreme tiredness frequently. This is nothing to worry about.

What Is Normal During Pregnancy?

Can I Bleed While Pregnant?

Light bleeding or spotting before eight weeks is considered normal. If bleeding is accompanied by pain in the pelvic area, or if you bleed after 12 weeks of pregnancy, you might have a problem.

  • Bleeding during early pregnancy can indicate an ectopic pregnancy or a miscarriage. A miscarriage is more common during the early phase of pregnancy. It usually happens when the foetus is not attached to the uterus properly.
  • You may bleed severely during pregnancy if you have an ectopic pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancy is one taking place in the wrong area.
  • Your doctor may perform a vaginal ultrasound to ensure that the foetus is growing normally, and pregnancy is not terminated. If the doctor finds a heartbeat of the foetus on ultrasound examination, there are fewer chances of miscarriage.
  • A blood test, which estimates the HCG levels, may also be helpful in determining the course of your pregnancy. If low or decreasing levels of HCG hormone are reported, it indicates your pregnancy might be terminating.

Warning Signs During The First Trimester

Check with your doctor if you observe the following signs and symptoms during the first trimester of pregnancy.

  • If you vomit excessively during your pregnancy, it may lead to dehydration, which may affect the baby.
  • Vaginal bleeding is a dangerous sign during pregnancy.
  • Excessive discharge from your vagina may indicate an infection.
  • If you experience pain or burning sensation while passing urine or are unable to control the flow of urine from the bladder, it can indicate a urinary tract infection, which needs to be resolved.
  • If you feel extremely weak or dizzy during pregnancy, consult your healthcare provider for the solution.
  • When you don’t gain enough weight or you are losing weight during pregnancy, it needs medical attention.
  • Severe headache on a regular basis is not a normal part of pregnancy.
  • You might experience some shortness of breath, but if you constantly feel out of breath, you need to consult your doctor.
  • If you experience severe pain or cramps in the abdomen area, there may be a chance for the loss of pregnancy.
  • A Continuing and high-intensity pain on one side of the abdomen or tip of the shoulder is unusual and requires immediate medical attention. This can be a sign of miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy.

Warning Signs During The First Trimester

Pregnancy is an overwhelming journey. In the first trimester, the foetus is growing and developing. You may experience physical and emotional discomfort. If you are not sure about a particular symptom is serious or not, call your healthcare provider.

Conclusion

Navigating the first trimester of pregnancy requires a balance between understanding normal changes and recognizing serious warning signs.

This blog serves as a guide for expectant mothers to be vigilant about their health and the health of their developing baby. It underscores the importance of consulting healthcare professionals promptly when facing any concerning symptoms.

Being informed and proactive during this sensitive period is key to ensuring a safe and healthy pregnancy journey.

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Dr. Kirilyuk Inna Anatolyivna

She is graduated from Vinnytsia National Medical University, in 2008.
2008-2010 resident, family practice.
2010-2015 General practitioner, family practice doctor.

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Our team of experts frequently monitors developments in the health and wellness field, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

Current Version

Dec, 01 2023

Written By

Dr. Kirilyuk Inna Anatolyivna

Fact checked By

Dr. Iunis Galina Ivanovna