This is an automatically translated article.
The article was professionally consulted by Specialist Doctor Obstetrician and Gynecologist - Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vinmec Hai Phong International General Hospital
Urinary tract infections can affect anyone, but it can be a serious problem if a UTI during pregnancy causes complications such as premature birth or low birth weight.
1. Why is there a urinary tract infection when pregnant?
The first reason is hormone changes. During pregnancy, hormonal changes affect the urinary system, making pregnant women more susceptible to UTIs.
The second cause is due to the growth of the uterus. The uterus grows in size, pressing on the bladder, increasing pressure on the bladder. This makes it difficult to completely empty the bladder during urination, and residual urine is a predisposing factor for infection.
2. Symptoms of urinary tract infection during pregnancy
If you have a UTI during pregnancy, the symptoms that may appear are:
The feeling of wanting to urinate immediately, not being able to hold back urine, needing to urinate and urinating continuously. Difficult urination. A burning or stinging sensation in the lower back or lower abdomen. Burning sensation when urinating. Urine that is dark or has an unusual odor.
3. How to prevent urinary tract infections during pregnancy?
Preventing UTIs during pregnancy is quite simple, follow these guidelines:
Drink at least 8 glasses of water a day. When cleaning the genital area, always remember to wipe from front to back, do not do the opposite to avoid bringing bacteria from the area near the anus to cause infection. If you need to use a lubricant during sex, be sure to choose a water-based lubricant. Do not douche. Avoid using deodorants or irritating soaps. Clean the genital area with warm water before having sex. Wear loose, airy, sweat-wicking underwear, like cotton underwear. When bathing, use the shower, not the bath. Do not wear pants that are too tight.
4. What to do when unfortunately having a urinary tract infection during pregnancy?
If you have a UTI during pregnancy, see a specialist as soon as possible. Your doctor will conduct blood tests, urine tests to determine the level of inflammation as well as find out the cause of inflammation.
The treatment is also quite simple, usually just take antibiotics for 3-7 days as prescribed by the doctor. There are many antibiotics that can be safely used during pregnancy such as amoxicillin, erythromycin, or penicillin, and your doctor will certainly not prescribe drugs that affect the fetus. In addition, your doctor may prescribe medications to help relieve uncomfortable symptoms.
If the treatment is adhered to, the symptoms will gradually decrease in 3 days. However, it is necessary to take the medicine exactly and enough as prescribed by the doctor, absolutely do not stop the drug even if the symptoms are gone.
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Article reference source: webmd.com
