Common symptoms in pregnancy

Many symptoms are caused by hormonal and physical changes. These can include:

  • Nausea and vomiting (morning sickness).
  • Tiredness.
  • Back pain or pelvic discomfort.
  • Heartburn and indigestion.
  • Swollen ankles and feet.
  • Mild headaches.
  • Stretch marks.
  • Vaginal discharge (clear or white, without itching).

If symptoms are mild and manageable, they are usually part of normal pregnancy. If they become severe, persistent, or feel different from expected, contact your midwife.

Symptoms that should always be checked urgently

Contact Croydon Maternity Triage (0208 401 3853) immediately if you are over 16 weeks pregnant, or A&E if you are under 16 weeks pregnant and experience any of the following symptoms:

  • Reduced or changed baby movements (after 24 weeks).
  • Vaginal bleeding.
  • Severe abdominal pain.
  • Sudden swelling of face, hands or severe headache.
  • Blurred vision or flashing lights.
  • Fluid leaking from the vagina.
  • Persistent vomiting and inability to keep fluids down.
  • Itching of palms or soles without rash.
  • Fever or signs of infection.

Understanding complications

Most pregnancies progress without serious complications. Some conditions require monitoring or treatment, including:

  • Gestational diabetes.
  • Pre-eclampsia.
  • Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy.
  • Preterm labour.
  • Deep vein thrombosis.
  • Placental problems.
  • Severe vomiting (hyperemesis gravidarum).

If you are diagnosed with a complication, your care plan will be personalised. This may include additional scans, blood tests or consultant review.

What this means for you

You know your body best. If something feels different, worsening or concerning, trust your instincts and seek advice. It is always appropriate to call maternity triage.

Trauma-informed care

If you have experienced previous pregnancy loss, traumatic birth or medical complications, new symptoms may feel especially frightening. Please tell us about your concerns. We can offer reassurance, additional review or personalised planning.

Health inequalities and personalised care

National data shows that some communities experience higher rates of complications. You are entitled to clear information, advocacy and additional review where needed.

Local support in Croydon

  • Croydon Maternity Triage – 24-hour urgent advice.
  • Day Assessment Unit for review if advised.
  • Specialist clinics (diabetes, hypertension, fetal medicine).