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Warning-sign checks

Missed period: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Seek emergency help if you may be pregnant and develop severe or worsening lower abdominal pain, especially on one side, shoulder-tip pain, marked dizziness, fainting, or heavy bleeding.

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    These can be signs of an ectopic pregnancy, in which a pregnancy develops outside the uterus, or another urgent condition.

    Do not wait for a routine appointment.

    Get same-day medical advice if pregnancy is possible and you have pelvic pain or vaginal bleeding, even if the pain is not severe or a home test is negative.

    A positive pregnancy test without urgent symptoms usually calls for routine contact with a pregnancy care service or clinician to discuss next steps.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange routine care if:

    • You have missed three periods in a row and are not pregnant
    • Your periods repeatedly become much less regular
    • You have pelvic pain, nipple discharge, headaches, vision changes, hot flushes, or increased facial hair
    • Weight, eating, or exercise changes may be affecting your cycle
    • Your periods have not started by age 15

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Missed period. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.