Extreme swelling in pregnancy: when it needs checking

Mild swelling of the feet and ankles can develop as pregnancy progresses, often becoming more noticeable after standing or later in the day. Sudden swelling, swelling of the face or hands, or swelling that rapidly worsens is different and should be reported. Pre-eclampsia may also involve high blood pressure, protein in the urine, headache, vision changes, pain under the ribs or feeling very unwell.

Contact your maternity unit or clinician promptly if swelling is extreme, sudden or affecting your face and hands. They may check blood pressure, urine and blood tests, and assess you and the baby. While waiting for advice, rest on your side, avoid prolonged standing and keep your appointment information available. Do not rely on home measures to explain away a rapid change.

Go to urgent or emergency care for severe headache, flashing lights or blurred vision, severe pain beneath the ribs, vomiting, shortness of breath, chest pain, confusion, fainting or a sudden major deterioration. Reduced baby movements also needs immediate maternity advice. These symptoms warrant assessment even if swelling is the only change you noticed at first.

Is this amount and location of swelling expected for my stage of pregnancy? What are my blood pressure and urine results? Which symptoms mean I should return immediately? How should I monitor baby movements, and who do I contact outside clinic hours?