Pregnancy is a natural process, but it can sometimes be complicated by life-threatening conditions if danger signs are ignored. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), timely recognition and management of these signs are critical to prevent maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality.
The challenge for both expectant mothers and healthcare workers is identifying when normal discomforts of pregnancy cross the line into serious warning symptoms. For easy recall, the mnemonic CABS is widely used. Just like calling a “cab” in an emergency, recognizing these signs means urgent medical attention is required.
Mnemonic CABS for Danger Signs in Pregnancy
| Letter | Danger Sign | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| C | Chills and fever | May indicate infections such as chorioamnionitis, urinary tract infection, or sepsis. |
| Cerebral disturbances | Headache, convulsions, or unconsciousness often linked with eclampsia or severe preeclampsia. | |
| A | Abdominal pain | Severe or persistent pain may indicate placental abruption, preterm labor, or uterine rupture. |
| B | Blurred vision | A classic sign of preeclampsia/eclampsia, often associated with hypertension. |
| Blood pressure abnormalities | Sudden rise in BP may suggest preeclampsia. | |
| Bleeding (per vaginal) | Could be due to placenta previa, abruption, miscarriage, or postpartum hemorrhage. | |
| S | Swelling (generalized) | Sudden swelling of face, hands, or feet is linked with preeclampsia. |
| Sudden escape of fluid | Premature rupture of membranes (PROM), increasing risk of infection and preterm birth. |
This simple mnemonic equips pregnant women, families, and healthcare workers with a quick reminder of what symptoms should never be ignored.
Detailed Explanation of Each Danger Sign
1. Chills and Fever
Possible Causes: Urinary tract infections, septicemia, chorioamnionitis.2. Cerebral Disturbances
Symptoms: Severe headache, dizziness, convulsions, unconsciousness.3. Abdominal Pain
Types: Sharp, crampy, or persistent.Causes:
- Placental abruption (pain with bleeding).
- Preterm labor (pain with contractions).
- Uterine rupture (sudden severe pain, shock).
4. Blurred Vision & High Blood Pressure
Blurred vision signals cerebral edema due to preeclampsia.5. Bleeding (Vaginal)
Causes:
- Early pregnancy: Miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy.
- Late pregnancy: Placenta previa, placental abruption.
- After delivery: Postpartum hemorrhage.
6. Swelling
Physiological swelling is common, but sudden swelling of face, hands, or generalized edema is dangerous.7. Sudden Escape of Fluid
Meaning: Rupture of amniotic membranes before labor.Why Early Recognition Matters
Maternal mortality remains a challenge, especially in developing countries. The majority of deaths are preventable with early recognition of warning signs and timely referral. The CABS mnemonic ensures that both healthcare workers and pregnant women remain alert.
Quick Reference Table – Danger Signs in Pregnancy (CABS)
| Sign | Possible Cause | Risk to Mother/Fetus | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chills & Fever | Infection, sepsis | Maternal sepsis, stillbirth | Antibiotics, hospitalization |
| Cerebral Disturbances | Preeclampsia/eclampsia | Stroke, convulsions | Emergency admission |
| Abdominal Pain | Abruption, preterm labor | Maternal shock, fetal death | Ultrasound, delivery |
| Blurred Vision & BP | Preeclampsia | Seizures, fetal hypoxia | Antihypertensives, MgSO₄ |
| Bleeding (PV) | Miscarriage, previa, PPH | Maternal hemorrhage, fetal distress | Urgent obstetric care |
| Swelling | Preeclampsia | Organ failure, stillbirth | Hospitalization |
| Sudden Escape of Fluid | PROM | Preterm birth, infection | Monitoring, induction |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. What are the key danger signs in pregnancy?
They include chills, fever, convulsions, abdominal pain, blurred vision, bleeding, swelling, and sudden fluid leakage – remembered with the mnemonic CABS.
Q2. Why is the mnemonic CABS used?
Because just like calling a cab in an emergency, recognizing these symptoms signals the need for immediate medical attention.
Q3. Which danger sign is most life-threatening?
Severe bleeding and eclampsia are leading causes of maternal death.
Q4. What should a pregnant woman do if she experiences any of these signs?
She must seek emergency care immediately – delays can endanger both mother and baby.
Q5. How can families support pregnant women in emergencies?
By knowing the signs, arranging quick transportation, and ensuring timely hospital referral.
