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When to Call Your Midwife Urgently During Pregnancy

Most pregnancies progress smoothly, but it's important to know the signs that need prompt attention. When in doubt, please call. We would always rather hear from you.

Please contact your midwife urgently if you experience:

Any vaginal bleeding.
A severe headache that does not improve with paracetamol, fluids, or rest.
Blurred vision, flashing lights, or spots in front of your eyes.
Sudden or significant swelling of your face, hands, or feet.
Severe pain under your ribs, particularly on the right-hand side.
Severe itching, especially on the palms of your hands and/or soles of your feet.
Regular or painful abdominal tightenings (possible contractions), particularly with a change in vaginal discharge.
An unusual increase in vaginal fluid loss, or leaking fluid.
A burning sensation when passing urine.
Regular contractions or signs of labour before 37 weeks of pregnancy.

After 28 weeks Call if your baby is moving less than usual, has stopped moving, or you notice a change in their normal pattern of movements. Reduced movements are always worth checking, no matter the time of day.

Help is always available

If you have tried calling your midwife twice and have been unable to make contact, please try the other midwife in the practice. If you are still unable to reach a midwife, please contact:

Kenepuru Maternity Unit: 04 918 2010

In an emergency, always call 111 for an ambulance.

Not sure if it's urgent? Call anyway. We would always rather talk you through your symptoms than have you worry at home.