When should a pregnant woman contact her healthcare provider?

A pregnant woman should contact her healthcare provider if she experiences severe headaches, vision changes, or decreased fetal movement because these symptoms can be indicative of serious complications. Severe headaches and vision changes could signal conditions such as preeclampsia, which can pose risks to both the mother and the fetus. Decreased fetal movement may suggest potential fetal distress or other issues that require immediate medical evaluation. These signs represent crucial changes in a woman's health or her baby's well-being, necessitating timely communication with a healthcare provider to ensure safety and proper care.

In contrast, contacting the provider only for scheduled appointments may lead to missing critical healthcare opportunities. Feeling fatigued can be a common symptom during pregnancy and is not typically a reason for urgent concern unless accompanied by other alarming symptoms. Finally, while exercise is essential during pregnancy, contacting a provider after any type of exercise is not warranted unless specific symptoms arise or there are existing complications indicated.