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
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Call emergency services for a seizure, collapse, severe difficulty breathing, heavy bleeding, or severe constant abdominal pain.
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 is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
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
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Contact your maternity unit immediately if your baby is moving less than usual, stops moving, or has a clear change in their normal pattern.
Do not wait until the next day or until your next appointment.
Urgent assessment is also needed for:
Vaginal bleeding or fluid leaking from the vagina
Regular contractions or signs of labour before 37 weeks
A severe or persistent headache
Blurred vision, flashing lights, or other vision changes
Severe pain below the ribs or in the upper abdomen
Sudden swelling of the face or hands, or feeling seriously unwell
These symptoms may indicate a serious pregnancy complication and should not wait for routine follow-up.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Keep all planned scans and monitoring appointments.
Contact your maternity team if you cannot attend, because the timing of follow-up is part of managing this condition.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Placental insufficiency. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.