Pregnancy is a beautiful time. But it can also bring new health challenges. One common issue is urinary tract infections, or UTIs. Many pregnant women experience them. The good news is that UTIs are easy to spot and treat.
Let's explore what you need to know about UTIs during pregnancy.
What Happens to Your Body in Pregnancy
Your body changes a lot when you're pregnant. Your urinary system changes too. The hormones in your body relax your muscles. This includes the muscles around your bladder and urethra. These muscles normally help control urine flow.
When they relax, urine can sit in your bladder longer. This creates the perfect environment for bacteria to grow. That's why UTIs are more common in pregnancy. In fact, around 2-10% of pregnant women develop a UTI.
What Are the Signs of a UTI?
It's important to recognise what are 3 symptoms of a urinary tract infection. Knowing the signs means you can act fast.
Common symptoms include a burning sensation when you pass urine. You might feel the need to pass urine more often than usual. Some women experience pain in their lower tummy or back. You might notice cloudy urine or blood in your urine. Some women feel generally unwell or feverish.
If you notice any of these signs, contact your healthcare provider. Don't ignore them. Early treatment is important during pregnancy.
Understanding Cystitis
Cystitis explained: causes, symptoms and treatment options can help you understand this common condition. Cystitis is a type of UTI that affects the bladder. It's the most common UTI in pregnancy.
The main symptom is a burning sensation when passing urine. You'll also feel the need to go more often. This happens even if only small amounts of urine are passed. Some women experience pain above the pubic bone.
Cystitis during pregnancy is treatable. Your doctor can prescribe safe antibiotics. Don't delay in seeking help.
Why Dehydration Makes It Worse
Did you know that can dehydration cause a UTI? The answer is yes. When you're not drinking enough water, your urine becomes more concentrated. Concentrated urine allows bacteria to thrive.
During pregnancy, you need even more fluids than usual. Aim to drink at least 2-3 litres of water daily. This dilutes your urine and helps flush out bacteria naturally. It's one of the simplest ways to prevent infection.
Getting Tested at Home
Many pregnant women prefer to test at home. This is a sensible option. You can find out where to get a home test for a UTI. Home tests are convenient and private.
Our Urine Infection Test (including Cystitis) UTI can help you check for infection quickly. The test is easy to use. You simply collect a small urine sample. Results come back fast. If positive, you can contact your doctor straight away.
Home testing removes any worry about getting to an appointment quickly.
Lifestyle Tips During Pregnancy
Pregnancy is a good time to focus on women's bladder health. Simple changes make a real difference.
Always pass urine when you feel the need. Never hold it in. This prevents bacteria from building up in your bladder. Wipe from front to back after using the toilet. This keeps bacteria away from your urethra.
Wear loose, breathable underwear made from cotton. Tight clothing creates a warm, damp environment where bacteria love to grow. Change out of wet clothing quickly, especially swimwear.
Nutrition and Prevention
What you eat and drink matters. Bladder health: foods and drinks to avoid during pregnancy can help you make smart choices. Avoid caffeine and acidic drinks. These can irritate your bladder.
Stay hydrated. Plain water is best. Some herbal teas are safe in pregnancy, but check with your midwife first.
Understanding Pelvic Floor Health
Your pelvic floor changes during pregnancy. Understanding pelvic floor health and UTI prevention is important. A healthy pelvic floor helps support your bladder and urethra.
Gentle pelvic floor exercises can help. Your midwife or physiotherapist can show you safe exercises. Strong pelvic floor muscles help prevent infection. They also help during labour and recovery.
Why Treatment Matters
Untreated UTIs during pregnancy can become serious. The infection might spread to your kidneys. This can cause premature labour or low birth weight. Your baby's health depends on your health.
That's why your healthcare provider screens for UTIs during pregnancy. You might have urine tests at your appointments. This catches infections early, even if you have no symptoms.
When to Seek Help
Contact your doctor or midwife if you think you have a UTI. Don't wait. Tell them you're pregnant so they can prescribe safe antibiotics.
Seek urgent help if you have fever, chills, or back pain. These can signal a kidney infection. Kidney infections need immediate treatment.
Take Action Today
UTIs during pregnancy are common and treatable. The key is spotting them early and getting help quickly. Pay attention to your body. Stay hydrated. Practise good hygiene.
If you're worried you might have a UTI, order our Urine Infection Test today. Quick testing gives you peace of mind. You can then share results with your healthcare provider.
Your health matters. Your baby's health matters too. Take care of yourself during this special time.
Related reading:
- Preventing Urinary Tract Infections
- Antibiotic Resistance and UTIs: What You Need to Know
- Does Cranberry Juice Really Prevent UTIs? The Science Explained
