Urine infection during pregnancy is very common and must be dealt with seriously, owing to the serious risk it may accrue to the baby and child birth. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) in women are one of the most prevalent infections occurring at various stages of life. Women are much more prone to UTIs than men [1], mainly due to the female lower urinary tract anatomy and its proximity to the reproductive organs. The female urethra is relatively short, reducing the distance for bacterial ingress. The shorter distance makes it easier for bacteria to enter and reach the bladder.
What is a urinary tract infection?
A urinary tract infection, or UTI, is an infection in any part of your urinary system, which includes your kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra. If you’re a woman, your chance of getting a urinary tract infection is high.
A UTI occurs when bacteria enter through the urethra and cause an infection. Generally, bacteria are eradicated by urination, but certain circumstances can cause an increased risk of contracting a UTI.
Urine Infection during Pregnancy and Childbirth:
Pregnancy is accompanied by a series of factors conducive to urinary tract infections – the urine is more basic (and not acidic) in pregnant women, urine flow obstruction is more common (especially towards the end of pregnancy). Pregnancy and the perinatal period therefore are characteristic timepoints marked by frequent urinary tract infections. The increasing number of caesarean sections and peri-operative catheterizations are yet another risk factor. Diabetes mellitus (GDM), uncontrolled in particular, is a risk factor for urinary tract infections [1].
Menopause and Urine Infection:
In the post-menopausal period falling oestrogen levels interfere with the vaginal epithelium, contributing to its gradual atrophy, while glycogen deficiency reduces the lactic acid bacteria counts. As a result, post-menopausal vaginas are often colonized by other bacteria, mainly Escherichia coli, which may spread and infect the urinary tract. Pelvic organ prolapse and urinary incontinence also contribute to frequent UTIs.
Tell me the symptoms of UTI during pregnancy?
Some women with Urine infections remain asymptomatic, but the most common symptoms reported include:
- Pain in the lower back
- High fever
- Shaking chills
- Vomiting
- Burning sensation during urination
- Increased frequency of urination
Are UTIs a risk during pregnancy?
UTIs are equally common in pregnant and non-pregnant patients and usually require medication to clear the infection. But if left untreated during pregnancy, a UTI can progress to s serious infection that can lead to preterm labor, premature delivery, or even fetal loss.
How are UTIs treated during pregnancy?
Pregnancy is a condition that warrants immediate attention if you are suspecting a urinary tract infection. Your doctor will probably prescribe antibiotics that are safe to take during pregnancy.
The risk of an individual woman experiencing a UTI in her lifetime is 20%. When treated quickly and correctly, UTIs rarely lead to serious complications, but if left untreated, it can lead to kidney infections and even death in rare cases.
Urine infection during pregnancy: Home Remedy
You can prevent UTIs naturally or at least reduce your risks of experiencing a urinary tract infection during pregnancy
- Cranberry Juice: Some evidence suggests that daily consumption of 100% pure cranberry juice with no added sugar may prevent UTIs because of a possible infection-fighting property contained in the juice. It is unclear how much and how often one should drink cranberry juice to prevent UTIs. You should not drink cranberry juice if you are taking the blood-thinning medication, warfarin, as it may lead to bleeding.
- Drinking plenty of water: This dilutes the urine and helps flush out bacteria that may be present.
- Avoiding drinks that may irritate the bladder: Coffee, alcohol, and soft drinks containing citrus juice or caffeine may irritate your bladder and perpetuate excessive urinating.
- Wiping from front to back: Wiping from front to back after using the bathroom prevents bacteria from the anal region from spreading to the vagina and urethra.
- Emptying your bladder soon after intercourse: It is important to try to flush out any bacteria that may have entered the urethra by drinking a full glass of water and urinating soon after sex.
- Avoiding the use of irritating feminine products: Using certain products such as deodorant sprays, douches, and powders can irritate the urethra and cause a UTI.
When should I see my doctor for urine infection?
If your urinary tract infection does not clear up on its own, your doctor can prescribe antibiotics. The antibiotics used to treat urine infections in pregnant women are safe to take in pregnancy. They will not harm your baby. You should see a doctor if your symptoms do not go, or if you feel worse after a few days. Some germs (bacteria) are resistant to some antibiotics. The doctor will change the medication appropriately in such cases.
When treated correctly, UTIs rarely progress to something more serious; however, if you believe you may have a UTI, it is important to take proper steps to eradicate the infection as quickly as possible to prevent further complications.
UTIs can be dangerous if the infection spreads to your kidneys. You must go see your doctor if you experience fevers, shaking, nausea, or vomiting, as these may be signs of a more serious infection.
References: [1] Urinary tract infection in women; Krzysztof Czajkowski,1 Magdalena Broś-Konopielko, and Justyna Teliga-Czajkowska; Published online 2021 Apr 21. doi: 10.5114/pm.2021.105382 [2] Urinary Tract Infection In Pregnancy; Patricia J. Habak; Robert P. Griggs, Jr.; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537047/