Warning-sign checks
Polyhydramnios: 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
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911Call emergency services for severe difficulty breathing, heavy vaginal bleeding, fainting, or severe constant abdominal pain.
A cord prolapse is also an emergency.
If your waters break and you can feel or see something like a cord in the vagina, call emergency services immediately.
Do not try to push it back.
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
Is any of this happening?
Be seen todayContact your maternity unit promptly if:
- Your abdomen suddenly becomes much larger or more painful
- You have regular tightenings or think labour may be starting early
- Fluid is leaking or your waters have broken
- Your baby is moving less than usual
- Breathlessness is new, worsening, or interfering with normal activity
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointmentFor routine follow-up, attend scheduled ultrasound and pregnancy appointments even if you feel well.
Contact your usual maternity team between appointments if discomfort, swelling, or breathlessness is gradually worsening.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Polyhydramnios. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.