Urinary Tract Infections During Pregnancy: Symptoms, Treatment And How To Prevent Them

Urinary tract infections during pregnancy are common and something we need to be aware of. It is important to have the right information about what causes them, as well as how you can treat them and what symptoms they have.

Urinary tract infections are not uncommon, especially during pregnancy. In fact, the risk of developing them doubles during pregnancy.

It is important to treat them properly. Failure to do so may cause complications and health problems for both the mother and the unborn baby.

Symptoms of urinary tract infections during pregnancy

The symptoms of urinary tract infection depend on where they occur.

A bladder infection

When an infection occurs in the bladder, it is called cystitis or  bladder infection . Among the most common symptoms is the burning sensation that occurs when you urinate.

For some, urinating becomes even more painful. Another very common symptom is the constant need to urinate, even if the bladder is empty. This can be a very troublesome symptom for pregnant women.

You may also feel pain or some kind of discomfort in the lower part of your pelvis. Among the symptoms of urinary tract infections during pregnancy that most frightens pregnant women is the presence of traces of blood or was in the urine. This is called hematuria.

The urine may also have a precipitate or look opaque and have an unpleasant odor.

Kidney infections

It can also happen that the infection picks up in the kidneys. Possible symptoms are:

• Fever and chills
• Back pain
• Nausea followed by vomiting
• Weakness and fatigue

What causes urinary tract infections during pregnancy?

During pregnancy, a woman’s body undergoes a series of changes. These changes in her anatomy and physiology affect the urinary tract and make her more vulnerable to these infections.

The microorganisms that generate urinary tract infections are bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites. Most urinary tract infections are caused by E. coli , a very common bacterium.

The mother’s age is also an important factor. The older the pregnant woman, the greater the risk of infection. In addition, women who have previously had infections during previous pregnancies are more likely to get them again.

How to treat urinary tract infections during pregnancy

Antibiotics are the necessary treatment for cases of urinary tract infections. It should be taken for a period of at least 7 days and always according to your doctor’s prescriptions. If the infection returns, your doctor may recommend continuous treatment, which may continue until delivery.

Self-medication involves a high risk and you should avoid it. This can lead to the infected bacteria becoming resistant instead of killing them.

The treatment of urinary tract infections during pregnancy should be accompanied by a large fluid intake. The purpose is for you to urinate several times a day, because it facilitates the elimination of bacteria. Spicy and irritating foods should also be excluded.

Finally, it is necessary to maintain good hygiene in the infected zone to prevent the bacteria from growing.

Urinary tract infections can be prevented

Some measures can prevent you from getting urinary tract infections during pregnancy:

• Wear loose clothing that does not fit. These clothes should preferably be made of cotton and other natural materials and not of synthetic fibers.
• After pooping, wipe from front to back. This prevents feces from the anus from coming into contact with the urethra and there causing infections.
• Drink at least 8 glasses of water a day.
• Humid, warm environments are a paradise for bacteria. Therefore, it is good to keep the infected area as dry and well ventilated as possible. For example, change your swimsuit as soon as you have left the water.
• Go and pee when you feel the need and do not stay for long periods of time.

Do not hesitate to see your doctor if you suspect you have a urinary tract infection during pregnancy. He or she will know how to treat your condition in a good way so that it does not affect you or your baby.