A pregnancy is a wonderful time in a woman’s life. A lot of rapid changes take place, both physically and emotionally, so it’s hard to determine whether what you’re experiencing is “normal.” In most cases, the whole nine months go by smoothly, but occasionally, things can go wrong. Thus, there is a need to be informed on the danger signals during pregnancy.

Your response to the problem, be it to schedule a visit, call your doctor, or rush to the E.R. will depend on your particular situation, your medical history, and how far along you are in your pregnancy. Ann Nuñez-Roces, M.D., an obstetrician-gynecologist, lists the symptoms and suggested actions moms can take when confronted with these situations.


1. Preterm labor
Signs of a preterm labor include period-like cramping or abdominal pain, pelvic pressure (a feeling that your baby is pushing down), lower back pain (especially if it’s a new problem for you), and contractions before 37 weeks. But a lot of first-time moms may confuse true labor and false labor. False labor contractions are called Braxton-Hicks contractions, which are unpredictable, non-rhythmic, do not increase in intensity, and usually subside. On the other hand, regular or true contractions occur about 10 minutes apart or less, with increasing intensity and frequency.

RESPONSE: The important thing is to not take a chance with your or your baby’s safety. If you think you are having contractions especially before your due date, call your doctor right away.

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