UTIs During Pregnancy: Complications and Treatment

Urinary tract infections, or UTIs, are very common during pregnancy. Infection is more likely to occur within women who are pregnant because the additional weight of your growing uterus can prevent urine from draining out of the bladder, according to the American Pregnancy Association. It's important for all pregnant women to be aware of the possible complications associated with urinary tract infections, as well as how to treat them during this time.

How Do UTIs Affect Pregnancy?

When urinary tract infections are left untreated, there is always a risk of a kidney infection. Kidney infections can have an impact on your pregnancy. There is an increased risk of preterm labor and low birth weights among women who have kidney infections, according to the American Pregnancy Association. This is why it is so important to visit your healthcare provider any time you experience symptoms of a UTI.

What are the Symptoms of Urinary Tract Infections?

It's important for women to be aware of the symptoms of UTIs, especially if you have never experienced this type of infection before. Remember that although frequent urination is one the main symptoms of infection, many women will experience this symptom during pregnancy due to the weight of the growing uterus. Other common symptoms of infection include burning when urinating, the need to urinate again right away, urine odor, and blood in the urine, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. To confirm that you have a urinary tract infection, your healthcare provider will run a urinalysis and urine culture.

How Should You Treat UTIs During Pregnancy?

Women are commonly recommended to treat urinary tract infections through home remedies, such as by drinking cranberry juice. It's best to avoid home remedies during pregnancy, however. Your healthcare provider will prescribe you with an antibiotic. The antibiotics which are used to treat UTIs are safe during pregnancy, according to the American Pregnancy Association. It's important to take your antibiotics as they are prescribed and finish the entire amount that you are given. If you continue to experience the symptoms of a urinary tract infection, be sure to notify your healthcare provider.

Although UTIs during pregnancy are often harmless, they can lead to complications if left untreated. Other conditions, such as sexually transmitted diseases and infections, can cause symptoms which are similar to UTIs. Certain STDs and STIs can also increase the risk of complications if they are left untreated while you are pregnant. If you experience any of the symptoms of infection, it's important to visit your healthcare provider for a diagnosis right away for a proper diagnosis.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for educational purposes only. Anyone who is concerned about their health should seek medical attention from a licensed healthcare provider.

Sources:
American Academy of Family Physicians
American Pregnancy Association