sofidexFor patientsAre you a clinician? Clinical site

Warning-sign checks

Coronavirus (COVID-19) and pregnancy: 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

    Call emergency services for severe trouble breathing, persistent chest pain or pressure, new confusion, collapse, blue or grey lips or skin, or difficulty staying awake.

    Routine follow-up is suitable for a lingering cough, tiredness, altered smell, or concentration problems when symptoms are stable and there are no emergency warning signs.

    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

    Contact your maternity service, primary care clinician, or an urgent medical advice service promptly if you test positive during pregnancy.

    Early contact matters because antiviral treatment, when appropriate, usually must begin soon after symptoms start.

    Seek prompt assessment if:

    • Fever continues or you are becoming more unwell
    • Breathlessness is increasing
    • You cannot keep down enough fluid
    • You have concerns about your baby's movements
    • You have vaginal bleeding, leaking fluid, or regular painful contractions
    • You develop a severe headache, vision changes, or sudden swelling
    • Symptoms continue for weeks or limit normal activities

    Reduced or changed fetal movement also needs urgent maternity assessment.

    Do not wait until the next day or rely on a home heartbeat monitor.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Coronavirus (COVID-19) and pregnancy. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.