Urinary tract infection (UTI) during pregnancy

What is a urinary tract infection?

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection of the urinary system. UTIs are the most common bacterial infection that women develop during pregnancy. They can do in different passages of the urinary tract, including the bladder (cystitis), urethra (urethritis) or feathers (pyelonephritis). Occasionally, when a UTI develops and bacteria are detected in the urinary tract, you may not have any symptoms of infection. This is known as asymptomatic bacteriuria.

Although anyone can get UTIs, they are much more common in women than men and are also more likely to occur in the really young and the elderly.

What are the symptoms of a UTI during pregnancy?

Common symptoms of a UTI during pregnancy are similar to those you might experience at any other time and include

• burning sensation when urinating

• feeling the urge to urinate more often than usual

• urinating before you can go to the toilet ('oohing' or incontinence)

• feeling like you have a full bladder, actually after urinating

• Urine that looks cloudy, bloody, or really ripe

• Pain above the pubic bone

• Fever

Occasionally, the first sign of infection is a mild stinging sensation when passing. However, you may also experience a fever with a particularly high temperature, back pain and vomiting if the infection is more advanced and has moved to the feathers.

What are the common causes of UTIs?

Your urinary tract is usually free of bacteria. However, they can spawn a UTI if bacteria enter the tract and multiply. There are several factors that increase the risk of developing an infection

• Infection with common bacteria in your gut, generally from faeces (poop), can contaminate your urinary tract

• Sexual activity increases the risk of bacteria moving around the genital area and entering the urinary tract

• If you have weak pelvic floor muscles, your bladder may not empty completely, which can lead to infection

• Women with diabetes are at increased risk of developing a urinary tract infection because sugar in the urine can cause bacteria to multiply

Are UTIs a threat during pregnancy?

During pregnancy, your body undergoes numerous changes that increase your threat of developing a UTI, including changes in the composition of your urine and a vulnerable system. As your baby grows, the pressure on your bladder also increases, which can reduce urine flow and lead to infection.

UTIs can affect women whether they are pregnant or not. however, pregnant women are more likely to develop recurrent or more severe infections. Up to 1 in 10 pregnant women will have a UTI but have no symptoms at all.

Is my child at risk?

Having a UTI during pregnancy can increase your risk of developing high blood pressure, and your baby may be born earlier and lower than usual. For this reason, even if you don't have any symptoms, it's important to treat a UTI as soon as possible.

How are UTIs diagnosed?

UTIs are diagnosed by taking a urine sample that is checked for bacteria in a laboratory. Your croaker may also perform a physical exam if they suspect you have an infection.

All pregnant women are offered a urine test, usually at their first prenatal visit or soon after. You may need to repeat the urine test if you have a history of urinary tract infections; have symptoms of a UTI; you have a contaminated sample or if your vet thinks you are at high risk of developing a UTI. However, you may also need fresh tests similar to an ultrasound of your feathers if you have frequent UTIs.

How is a UTI treated during pregnancy?

When you have a urinary tract infection, it is important to drink enough water to flush out the urinary tract. UTIs are treated with antibiotics, which are safe during pregnancy. Your vet will choose the right antibiotic based on your infection and the type of bacteria in your urine sample.

Can I help a UTI?

You can reduce the risk of UTIs during pregnancy by:

• drink enough fluids, especially water

• prompt treatment of any vaginal infection it may cause, including canker sores or sexually transmitted infections

• avoid constipation

• Some women also find the following tips helpful

• urinate incontinently after coitus

• do not stay in the toilet - go as soon as you feel the need

• wipe from front to back after going to the toilet

• wear cotton underwear

When should I see my doctor?

If you have any symptoms of a urinary tract infection, see your midwife or whore. It is important not to delay treatment as infections develop quickly and can affect you and your baby.

During your UTI appointment, our healthcare providers at UrgentWay Walk-in Clinics will examine you for signs and symptoms of UTI and take a sample of your urine to detect the type of bacteria involved. Depending on your reports, you are given an antibiotic course to treat that specific type of bacteria.

Statistics indicate that 1 in 5 women experience UTIs at some point in their lives. Although UTIs are common in women, they can also occur in men, older adults, and children. Between one and two percent of children develop UTIs. Every year, between 8 and 10 million visits to an uti doctor nearme

Our experienced healthcare providers will discuss your diagnosis, provide UTI treatment, and counsel you on preventative care and healthy choices.