The National Institute of Emergency Medical Services (NIEMS) has urged pregnant women to take appropriate prenatal care to minimise risks.
Based on 2017 records, a total of 8,410 pregnant women aged 30-50 in that year were rushed to hospital for emergency medical care for pregnancy-related complications, the institute said.
This accounted for 0.53% of all emergency cases nationwide. Narathiwat topped the list with 478 cases, followed by Songkhla (471), Ubon Ratchathani (338), Khon Kaen (328), and Pattani (289).
Most cases of emergency medical care sought by pregnant women involve vaginal bleeding which has various causes with varying intensity.
In some cases, vaginal bleeding can be a sign of serious problems.
Pairote Boonsirikhamchai, deputy secretary-general of NIEMS, said risk factors vary from woman to woman but age and underlying health conditions can increase risks during pregnancy.
Older women are more likely to experience pregnancy-related emergencies, according to Dr Pairote. An ectopic pregnancy is one of the causes of vaginal bleeding and it can be fatal, he said.
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when the fertilised egg attaches itself in a place other than inside the uterus.
Symptoms that indicate a potential ectopic pregnancy include a sharp pain in one side of the abdomen, vaginal bleeding, weakness, and dizziness when changing positions.
Haemorrhage, or internal bleeding, is also another risk for pregnant women who have may pregnancy-induced hypertension.
Symptoms include lethargy, paleness, cold and sweaty skin, weak but rapid pulse, and irregular breathing.
Patients suffering from internal bleeding should be kept warm and still with feet raised and given CPR if their breathing stops as they are rushed for medical help as soon as possible, Dr Pairote said. Emergency medical services can be reached at 1669.