What Does Protein in Urine During Pregnancy Mean?

During pregnancy, you will be given urine tests many times at your prenatal appointments. If your doctor finds levels of protein in your urine, it can be very scary. You may be wondering what the possible causes are and whether or not it will affect your pregnancy. While your doctor is the only one who can make a proper diagnosis, here are some of the possible causes of protein in urine during pregnancy.

Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia is a condition that occurs during pregnancy and is characterized by high blood pressure, protein in urine, and water retention, according to the American Pregnancy Association. This condition can cause pregnancy complications, such as low birth weight. That said, most women will be able to deliver healthy babies as long as the condition is caught early enough. Management of preeclampsia generally includes following a healthy diet that does not consist of salt, drinking plenty of water, and exercising as often as your doctor recommends.

Urinary Tract and Kidney Infections

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are another one of the possible causes of protein in urine. The most recognizable symptoms of a UTI are generally a frequent urge to urinate and discomfort when urinating. If a urinary tract infection is not treated right away, it can lead to a kidney infection, which may cause symptoms such as fever, chills, vomiting, nausea, and back pain, according to the American Pregnancy Association. While a UTI will not affect your pregnancy, a kidney infection can cause low birth weight and premature labor, according to the APA.

Other Causes of Protein in Urine

There are many other possible causes of protein in urine. Emotional stress, being exposed to cold or heat, fever, and strenuous exercise are some of the temporary conditions that can cause this problem, according to the Mayo Clinic. Chronic kidney failure, diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, Hodgkin's lymphoma, kidney disease, leukemia, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and sickle cell anemia are a few of the many conditions that can cause protein in urine, according to the Mayo Clinic. Also keep in mind that certain medications and dehydration can also cause the problem.

Before jumping to conclusions, it is important to wait to see what your doctor diagnoses you with. Protein in your urine during pregnancy may indicate something as minor as a UTI or something as serious as chronic kidney failure. Most of the conditions that cause protein in urine can be managed during pregnancy as long as they are caught early on.

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

Sources:
American Pregnancy Association: "Preeclampsia or Toxemia"
American Pregnancy Association: "Urinary Tract Infection During Pregnancy"
American Pregnancy Association: "Urine Test: Urinalysis"
Mayo Clinic