Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most common bacterial infections during pregnancy, affecting approximately 8% of expectant mothers, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. It's essential for pregnant women to promptly report any UTI symptoms to their healthcare provider to ensure timely and effective treatment, safeguarding both maternal and fetal health.Staying on top of your health during pregnancy isn’t just about you—it’s the key to giving your baby the best start in life!

What are the causes of a UTI during pregnancy?

Pregnancy induces hormonal and anatomical changes that increase the risk of UTIs. Elevated progesterone levels can lead to relaxation of the ureter and bladder muscles, promoting urinary stasis and vesicoureteral reflux. Additionally, the enlarging uterus can exert pressure on the urinary tract, further contributing to these issues. emedicine.medscape.com

What are the symptoms of a UTI during pregnancy?

Common signs of UTIs in pregnant women include:

• Painful or burning sensation during urination
• Frequent urge to urinate, often in small amounts
• Cloudy, dark, or strong-smelling urine
• Leaking urine
• Fever
• Lower abdominal or pelvic pain

What are the health effects of left untreated

If not properly addressed, UTIs during pregnancy can lead to several serious complications, including:

• Pyelonephritis: A kidney infection that can cause sepsis, disseminated intravascular coagulation, and acute respiratory distress syndrome.
• Preterm Birth: Increased risk of delivering a premature baby.
• Low Birth Weight: Higher likelihood of having a baby with low birth weight.
• Maternal Sepsis: A life-threatening infection that spreads throughout the body.

How is a UTI diagnosed?

Diagnosing a UTI during pregnancy typically involves:

• Urine Analysis: Testing a urine sample for the presence of bacteria, white blood cells, or blood.
• Urine Culture: Culturing urine to identify the specific bacteria causing the infection.
• Symptom Assessment: Reviewing reported symptoms and medical history.

acog.org | emedicine.medscape.com | ncbi.nlm.nih.gov | ncbi.nlm.nih.gov