Urgent Pregnancy Concerns
24-hour emergency assessment and triage for urgent pregnancy, postnatal, and acute gynaecology concerns.
Emergency Room
(01) 637 3100
Available 24 hours a day 365 days a year
Common Concerns
While many symptoms in pregnancy are common, some need prompt attention. Always trust your instincts – if something doesn’t feel right, contact your midwife, GP or obstetrician. This page outlines key warning signs and when to seek help to keep you and your baby safe.
Signs of labour
Contractions
As labour begins, you may notice contractions that build in a steady rhythm, rising to a peak and then easing away. This is the clearest sign that labour may be starting. When they are coming every 3 to 4 minutes and lasting 40 to 60 seconds, you are likely in established labour. Remember to rest and relax your body in between.
Waters Break
If your waters break, it’s important to come into the hospital so we can confirm this, check your baby’s heartbeat, and plan your care with you. You may feel a gush or a steady leak of fluid, so wearing a pad can help. The fluid may be clear, slightly green (meconium), or blood-stained. If it is green or heavily blood-stained, you will need to stay in hospital for monitoring until your baby is born.
Bleeding
Bleeding can happen at different stages of pregnancy and doesn’t always mean something is wrong – but it’s important to have it checked.
Early Pregnancy (first 12 weeks)
Bleeding may be due to:
- Normal early pregnancy changes (such as implantation or hormonal changes)
- A threatened or confirmed miscarriage
- Less commonly, conditions such as ectopic pregnancy
Later Pregnancy (after 12 weeks)
Bleeding later in pregnancy should always be checked urgently.
Possible causes include:
- Changes to your cervix
- A low-lying placenta
- Placental complications
- Early labour
Reduced Movements
Your baby’s movements are an important sign of their wellbeing.
Contact your maternity team immediately if you notice any change in your baby’s normal movement pattern.
A change may be a sign that your baby needs to be checked.
Pain
Stomach Pain
Mild discomfort can be normal, particularly early in pregnancy.
However, more severe or ongoing pain could be linked to:
- Infection
- Digestive issues such as constipation
- Early or preterm labour
If you are concerned about any pain, please speak with your care team.
Chest Pain
Some breathlessness can be normal in pregnancy, especially later on. However, if it feels sudden, severe or unusual, seek medical advice.
Swelling in Pregnancy
Swelling in your hands, feet and ankles is common.
However, a sudden increase in swelling, especially with other symptoms like headache or visual changes, may need urgent review.
Contact Information
Emergency Room / Main Switchboard
Call if you are unsure whether to attend – a midwife can advise you.
Phone:
(01) 637 3100
Gynaecology Outpatient Clinic
Contact us for non-urgent gynaecology concerns, however, appointments require a referral from your GP
Phone:
(01) 637 3502 / 637 3504
Hours:
Monday – Friday, 8am – 4pm