UTIS IN PREGNANCY: WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

Getting a UTI (urinary tract infection) is a pain at any time. Although it’s not normally dangerous, it can be uncomfortable and unpleasant. This is particularly true if you’re pregnant when you have so much else to contend with and can do without the discomfort and stress of a UTI.

In fact, UTIs are common during pregnancy due to the changes your body is going through. Having a UTI is not normally anything serious, but it’s good to know more about the condition and what it means for you and your baby.

Here’s all you need to know about UTIs in pregnancy...

What is a UTI?

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common infections that are related to bacteria entering the bladder, kidneys and urinary tract. They are also known as water infections during pregnancy. UTIs cause inflammation and pain and can affect both men and women, although they are particularly common in women. Around half of all women will experience at least one UTI in their lifetime. Some people can suffer repeatedly from the problem, which is a condition known as recurrent UTIs.

What causes UTIs in pregnancy?

Urinary tract infections are most often caused by bacteria from your poo getting into the urinary tract through your urethra, which is the tube you pee through. UTIs are more common in women as they have a shorter urethra, so it’s easier for bacteria to reach the bladder or kidneys. Having sex, not drinking enough fluid, and not keeping your genital area clean can also lead to UTIs.

Why does pregnancy increase the risk of getting a UTI?

UTIs are more common in pregnancy for several reasons. including:

• When you are pregnant your body is going through hormonal changes, which in turn leads to changes in the urinary tract and slows down the flow of urine.
• Your enlarging womb can also press on your bladder, preventing it from draining well which makes it more likely to become infected with bacteria.

What are the symptoms of a UTI in pregnancy?

Symptoms depend on whether the UTI is confined to your bladder (cystitis) or if it infects your kidneys, with a kidney infection being more serious.

UTI symptoms include:

• Pain, or a burning sensation when peeing
• A feeling of urgency to pee
• Peeing more often than usual
• Strong smelling pee
• Cloudy, dark, or bloody pee
• A raised temperature

Kidney infection symptoms include:

• Pain in your side (loin) over your kidney
• A high temperature, feeling chilled
• Vomiting
• Feeling generally unwell

Symptoms of cystitis are also usually present in a kidney infection

Should I contact a doctor if I think I have a urinary tract infection?

If you’re pregnant and you think you have any type of UTI, then you must always speak to a doctor – even if you wouldn’t normally worry about it. The UTI should be treated as quickly as possible to prevent it spreading upwards to the kidneys where it can cause serious problems, including sepsis. UTIs can even lead to premature birth if left untreated. 

How are UTIs treated in pregnancy?

A UTI in pregnancy is treated with antibiotics, which your doctor will ensure are safe for pregnant women. Your GP will usually ask for a pee sample before prescribing anything, to ensure you get the right antibiotic. You will be advised to repeat a pee sample after you have finished the course of treatment. If you are not improving with the antibiotic or your symptoms are getting worse do speak to a doctor as the antibiotic may need to be changed.

How can UTIs in pregnancy be prevented?

Although urinary tract infections are common in pregnancy, there are a few things you can do to make it less likely that you’ll develop a UTI while you’re pregnant, such as:

• After you’ve been to the loo, always wipe yourself from front to back
• Keep your genitals clean and dry
• Wash the skin around your vagina with water before and after sex
• Pass urine as soon as possible after having sex
• Drink lots of water
• Avoid tight fitting underwear
• Don’t use perfumed soaps and shower gels

Can a UTI harm my baby?

A urinary tract infection is not a direct threat to your baby’s health, but UTIs which lead to kidney infections may cause premature birth and low birth weight. But telling your doctor promptly if you suspect you have a UTI and getting treatment early, means this is unlikely to happen.