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A Urinary Tract Infection, or UTI for short, is an infection in any part of your urinary system. UTIs typically occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract and begin to multiply in the bladder [1]. UTIs are more prevalent in women than men with women up to 30 percent greater risk of acquiring a UTI [2]. Pregnant women are at increased risk for UTIs. The risk increases beginning in week 6 and peaking during weeks 22 to 24 [3].
Clinical data suggests that around 50–60% of women will develop UTIs in their lifetimes. Pregnant women are at increased risk for UTI.
Why pregnancy increase risks of UTI?
The increased risk of UTIs during pregnancy is primarily due to changes in the urinary tract. The uterus sits right above the bladder and as the size of the uterus grows, the increased weight may prevent proper urine drainage from the bladder. Incomplete urine drainage for an extended period of time causes bacteria to thrive which could potentially lead to an infection [5]. Moreover, the infection can also be a result of the hormonal changes a woman goes through during pregnancy, making women more prone to developing an infection [6].
Why pregnancy increase risks of UTI?
The most common symptoms of a UTI are:
- Urge to pass urine more frequently
- Blood in urine
- A burning sensation when urinating
- Urine Incontinence (leakage)
- Waking up during the night to pass urine
- Pressure or pain around the bladder
- Cramps in the lower abdomen
- Pain in the lower back
Some women have a UTI with no symptoms at all. Because an untreated infection can lead to complications, notify your provider immediately if you have any UTI-like symptoms [7].
Stay alert :
UTI during pregnancy can be dangerous and can create complications for the mother as well as the baby. With UTI present, there is a possibility of premature labor. Moreover, the baby may also have low weight at birth due to a UTI that is not treated [8]. Hence, it is important that UTIs, especially in pregnant women, are treated at the earliest. This can be done by checking in with the doctor if you feel even the slightest of any of the symptoms mentioned q. A simple urine test can show whether there are any bacteria present in the urine to cause infection [6].
