Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common ailments among women. This rate may increase slightly, especially during pregnancy. These infections, which can manifest as asymptomatic bacteriuria, bladder infection (cystitis), or kidney infection, can pose health risks to the expectant mother and may also affect the baby if left untreated or if treatment is delayed.
Urinary Tract Infections During Pregnancy
During pregnancy, the physical and hormonal changes that occur in the expectant mother's body generally increase the risk of urinary tract infections. It can also cause problems with bladder emptying, creating a favorable environment for bacterial growth. Considering all of this, expectant mothers need to be a little more careful than usual.
Symptoms of Urinary Tract Infection During Pregnancy
- Frequent urination
- Pain and burning sensation while urinating
- Odor in urine
- Persistent urge to urinate.
- Blood in the urine
- Nausea
- Groin Pain
Why are urinary tract infections more common during pregnancy?
Pregnant women are at greater risk than non-pregnant women. Infections during pregnancy generally begin around the 6th week, but are most common between weeks 22 and 24. During pregnancy, the ureters (the tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder) dilate by 90%. This dilation continues until delivery. Additionally, due to hormones, the smooth muscles in the urinary tract relax. This leads to a decrease in urine flow rate, known as urinary stasis. Urinary stasis, along with pressure on the bladder from the growing uterus and other factors, increases the frequency of urinary tract infections during pregnancy.
The Effects of Urinary Tract Infections on Pregnancy and the Baby
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) during pregnancy, if left untreated, can affect the mother's kidneys. UTIs can complicate pregnancy, and the most significant impact on the baby is prematurity (early birth).
Treatment of Urinary Tract Infections During Pregnancy
Pregnant women who develop a urinary tract infection (UTI) can be treated with antibiotics. Your doctor will manage the process using antibiotics that are safe for you and your baby.
To avoid urinary tract infections (UTIs) during pregnancy, you should pay attention to your toilet hygiene. Keeping the genital area moist creates a suitable environment for bacteria to grow, so you should dry your genital area after using the toilet. Additionally, you should go to the toilet as soon as you feel the urge to urinate and completely empty your bladder. You should increase your fluid intake throughout your pregnancy; drinking at least 8-10 glasses of water a day and consuming foods rich in vitamin C are measures you can take to prevent UTIs. Furthermore, I recommend that you consult your doctor as soon as you notice any symptoms so that early intervention can be provided and the baby can be protected.
Wishing you days free from cystitis and full of health…
Sources:
- Kass EH. Pregnancy, pyelonephritis and prematurity. Clin Obstet Gynecol 1970;13:239-54.
- Lucas MJ, Cunningham FG. Urinary infection in pregnancy. Clin Obstet Gynecol 1993;36:855-68.
- Mikhail MS, Anyaegbunam A. Lower urinary tract dysfunction in pregnancy: a review. Obstet Gynecol Surv 1995;50:675-83.
- Patterson TF, Andriole VT. Bacteriuria in pregnancy. Infect Dis Clin North Am 1987;1:807-22.
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