Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are common during pregnancy, affecting approximately 8% of all pregnant women. They are easily treated, but UTIs should never be neglected because if left untreated, they can cause serious complications for both you and your baby. (1)

What Is a UTI?

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a bacterial infection in any part of the urinary tract. It is very common among women, but the risk increases during pregnancy, especially between weeks 6-24, due to the changes that occur in the body during this time. (2)

There are 3 major types of UTIs: (1)

• Asymptomatic bacteriuria (2-10% of pregnant women): This means that there are large amounts of bacteria in the urine but without symptoms. It is important to treat this condition in pregnant women even when it is asymptomatic, to prevent it from spreading to the bladder or kidneys.
• Cystitis (1-2% of pregnant women): Infection limited to the bladder only, causing the classic symptoms of a UTI, such as pain and burning when urinating.
• Pyelonephritis (1-2% of pregnant women): This is the most serious type of UTI, and often results from neglecting to treat previous types of UTIs, increasing the risk of complications for both mother and fetus.

Why Are UTIs Common During Pregnancy?

The risks of developing a UTI increase during pregnancy due to the pressure the uterus creates on the bladder as pregnancy evolves; this blocks the urine passage and creates ideal conditions for bacteria to grow.  (2)

The most common bacteria causing UTIs is Escherichia coli or E. coli, which is commonly found in stool, however, in some people, it can be transferred through poor hygiene habits, like wiping from back to front after bowel movements. (3)

What are the symptoms of a UTI?

The symptoms of a UTI are the same whether during pregnancy or otherwise and include: (4)

• Pain and burning during urination.
• Frequent/urgent need to urinate.
• Urinary incontinence (not being able to reach the toilet in time).
• A sensation of fullness in the bladder, even after urination.
• Dark, cloudy, or strong-smelling urine, sometimes with blood in it.
• Lower abdominal pain or suprapubic pain (just above the pubic bone).
• High fever, flank pain, and vomiting, which may indicate the infection has spread to the kidneys.

Do UTIs Harm The Fetus?

A UTI during pregnancy is quite common and does not harm the fetus if detected and treated in time. However, if left untreated, it may lead to severe complications for both the mother and the fetus, including premature birth, low birth weight, and other problems. (2)

How Do I Know If I Have It?

Since UTIs can be asymptomatic, it is important to detect them early through routine pregnancy check-ups with your doctor. (5)

A urinalysis is typically recommended between the 12th and 16th weeks of pregnancy or during your first prenatal visit for UTI screening and other problems. (5)

Safe Pregnancy with Dr. Soliman Fakeeh Hospital!

Book your appointment for a pregnancy follow-up at the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department at Dr. Soliman Fakeeh Hospital. You will receive comprehensive care, including all routine tests, with continuous support throughout and after your pregnancy.

How Is a UTI Treated During Pregnancy?

Treatment includes using oral antibiotics that are safe during pregnancy for a duration of 3-7 days, depending on the chosen antibiotic. (6)

• If you experience recurrent UTIs, your doctor may prescribe a low-dose antibiotic to be taken regularly during pregnancy for prevention.
• If the infection reaches your kidneys, you may need to be hospitalized and treated with intravenous antibiotics.

Tips for prevention

The following tips can help prevent UTIs during pregnancy: (3)

• Drink at least 6-8 cups of water daily to help flush bacteria out through urine.
• Urinate before and after sexual intercourse.
• Don’t delay going to the bathroom when you need to.
• Wipe from front to back after bowel movements.
• Wear cotton underwear and change it daily, avoiding tight pants also.
• Avoid douching or using soaps in the genital area.

References

1. ACOG - Urinary Tract Infections in Pregnant Individuals
2. American Pregnancy Association - UTI During Pregnancy
3. Cleveland Clinic - UTI During Pregnancy
4. Pregnancy Birth and Baby - Urinary tract infections (UTIs) during pregnancy
5. American Academy of Family Physicians - Screening for Asymptomatic Bacteriuria in Adults‍
6. UTSouthwestern Medical Center - UTIs during pregnancy are common and treatable