Introduction

Fetal Development

The Danger Signs of Pregnancy

The Pregnant Patient's

Sexual Intimacy

 

Weight Gain

 

Communication Skills

 

Labor Coping Strategies

 

Birth Options and Preferences

 

What to Take to the Hospital

 

Labor

 

Addendum

 

Course Exam

The Danger Signs of Pregnancy

If any one of these signs occur, call your doctor at once.

  1. Increased, unusual thirst with reduced amounts of urine; or, no urination for a day despite normal fluid intake.

  2. Severe nausea or vomiting (several times within an hour).

  3. Chills and fever over 100.4F not accompanies by a common cold.

  4. Vaginal bleeding (as opposed to the mucous plug expected after the 37th week of pregnancy).

  5. Marked swelling in your face or hands, especially if very sudden.

  6. A severe headache that doesn’t let up; especially if it occurs in the second half of your pregnancy.

  7. Dimness or blurring of your vision.

  8. Severe stomach pain or cramps.

  9. Painful urination, or burning when urinating.

  10. Rupture of membranes, that is, leakage of fluid or a gush of fluid from the vagina.

  11. Change in fetal movements from the 26th week of pregnancy or after.  If  detected, eat a small meal or drink a beverage high in natural sugar (i.e., orange juice, apple juice) then lie down on your left side for one hour.  During that hour, count the number of fetal movements or kicks.  If the movements or kicks are less than 5 in one hour, go to the hospital immediately for a fetal evaluation.

Next: Pregnant Patient’s Bill of Rights And Pregnant Patient’s Responsibilities