Urinary tract infection during pregnancy.

 

If you are a woman, your chance of getting a urinary tract infection or UTI is high, and that’s due to our Anatomy. In this post we are going to talk about Urinary tract infection during pregnancy, the causes, symptoms, prevention, and natural remedies, and also the risks of UTI if not properly treated, so let’s begin…

What Causes UTI in Women?

Women are more likely than men to get UTIs because of their urinary tract’s design. Men have a longer urethra, so it is more difficult for bacteria to enter the urinary tract. Nearly half of all women will have a urinary tract infection at some point in their lives. About 20 percent of these women will have repeat infections.

UTIs are a key reason we’re often told to wipe from front to back after using the bathroom. That’s because the urethra the tube that transports urine from the bladder to the outside of the body is located close to the anus. Bacteria from the large intestine, such as E. coli, are in the perfect position to escape the anus and invade the urethra.

What is the definition of UTI?

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection of any part of the urinary tract. This can include the kidneys, the tubes that connect your kidneys to your bladder(ureters) the bladder, and the tube that carries urine out of your body (urethra) These organs make, store, and get rid of urine in the body. A UTI can be produced as well by a bladder infection(cystitis), or a kidney infection( pyelonephritis). This infection may be caused by fungi, viruses, and bacteria. Bacteria are the most common cause of UTI.

Now let’s talk about UTI and pregnancy.

• You are more likely to develop UTI during pregnancy because of:
• The physical and Hormonal changes your body goes through can make it easier for bacteria to get into your urinary tract.
• Your growing uterus and fetus can affect normal urine flow.

Can UTI affect your unborn baby?

An untreated UTI during pregnancy could lead to kidney infection, which can cause health problems that could eventually affect your baby, you may have higher risks of:

• Premature baby.
• Having a baby with low birth weight( IUGR )
• Developing preeclampsia during pregnancy.

What are the UTI symptoms.

1. Fever.
2. Frequent or urgency for urination, or passing small amounts of urine frequently.
3. Pain or burning sensation when urinating.
4. Urine that smells bad or unusual.
5. Cloudy urine.
6. Pain in the lower abdomen or back.
7.  Trouble urinating.
8. Blood in the urine.
9. Vomiting or being less hungry than normal.
10. Diarrhea.
11. Increased vaginal discharge.

How to prevent naturally UTI during pregnancy.

1. Go to the bathroom as soon as you feel the need.
2. Always wipe from the front to the back.
3. Wash your genital area with soap and warm water daily.
4. Empty your bladder before and after sex.
5. Wear cotton underwear.
6. Limit your intake of high sugar foods or drinks, such as regular soda, juice, and sweets.
7.  Drinks 6 to 8 glasses of water.
8. Do not wear tight-fitting pants.
9. Avoid using douche or use deodorant sprays.
10. Avoid drinking alcohol, caffeine, or carbonated drinks. These drinks can irritate your bladder.

Treatment options for UTI.

If you suspect you have a urinary tract infection, head to the doctor. You’ll be asked to give an urine sample, which will be tested for the presence of UTI causing bacteria. The treatment? Antibiotics that are safe to take during pregnancy to kill the intruders. As always, be sure to finish off the prescribed cycle of medicine completely, even after you start to feel better. And drink lots of water to help flush the bacteria from your system. Your doctor may prescribe a medication to soothe the pain, and a heating pad may also be helpful.

Curious to know more about Fetal development and pregnancy, or perhaps want to have some parenting tips, check the links below.

Normal 39 weeks pregnancy and baby ultrasound, your complete guide.

Best Natural Home Remedies for UTI.

D-mannose is a simple sugar in the form of a monosaccharide. It is the compound found in cranberries that helps with UTIs. You may have heard that you should drink cranberry juice for a UTI and that is because it contains D-mannose.

Studies have found that the Lactobacilli species of probiotics are particularly important in fighting bacteria that cause UTIs as they produce ingredients that adhere to the bacteria and remove them from the body.

Garlic, basically garlic acts as a broad spectrum antibiotic, but without the worry of creating a superbug with long-term antibiotic use.

You need to contact again your doctor if:

Your symptoms get worse.

Persistent fever for more than 2 days after treating the UTI.

You are having pain, a rash, or abnormal vaginal discharge.

In conclusion.

If you have any symptoms of urinary tract infection, see a doctor as soon as possible. With proper treatment, the infection can be cleared up before it causes serious problems mainly if you are pregnant, however, keep in mind that small changes in your lifestyle can make the difference and help you prevent future UTI’s.

Zadi, xo.