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Warning-sign checks

Potter syndrome: 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

    Severe breathing difficulty in any newborn is an emergency.

    Call emergency services immediately if a baby is struggling to breathe, is not responding normally, or has blue, grey, or very pale skin.

    Seek immediate crisis or emergency support if you feel unable to stay safe or are thinking about harming yourself.

    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. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek urgent pregnancy assessment if you notice:

    • A gush or continuing trickle of fluid from the vagina
    • A clear reduction in the baby’s usual movements
    • Vaginal bleeding
    • Regular painful contractions, fever, or feeling acutely unwell

    These signs do not necessarily mean Potter syndrome is present or worsening, but they need prompt assessment.

    Grief can also become urgent.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    If Potter syndrome or very low amniotic fluid has been diagnosed, keep the scheduled follow-up with the fetal medicine and pregnancy teams.

    Contact them between appointments if you have questions about changes in fetal movement, leaking fluid, or the birth plan.

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