Which symptom would suggest a potential complication rather than a normal sign of pregnancy?

Painful swelling in the lower extremities during pregnancy can indicate a potential complication, as it is not a typical symptom that one would expect to experience as part of a normal pregnancy. Common and generally harmless symptoms such as fatigue, heartburn, and back pain can be expected due to hormonal changes and the physical demands of carrying a developing fetus.

However, painful swelling, particularly if it is unilateral or accompanied by other symptoms like redness and warmth, could suggest issues such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or other circulatory problems. Unlike the other symptoms, which are often managed through lifestyle adjustments and are commonly reported throughout pregnancy, this specific symptom may require further investigation and medical intervention to ensure the safety of both the mother and the fetus.