Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) in Pregnancy: Symptoms, Causes, & Treatment

Summary: Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are quite common during pregnancy due to hormonal changes and pressure on the bladder. They can cause symptoms like a burning sensation during urination, frequent urge to pee, and pelvic pain. If left untreated, UTIs may lead to serious complications like kidney infections or preterm labor. Timely diagnosis through urine tests and treatment with pregnancy-safe antibiotics is essential. Expectant mothers should seek medical attention at the earliest signs to ensure the safety of both mother and baby.

Feeling the urge to pee more frequently during pregnancy is normal. But if it burns when you pee or if you feel pain or pressure in your lower belly, it might be more than just your growing baby pressing on your bladder. These could be signs of a urinary tract infection (UTI), and it is something that needs attention.

UTIs are quite common during pregnancy because of hormonal changes and the extra pressure on your bladder and urinary tract. If not treated at the right time, a UTI can lead to more serious problems like a kidney infection or even early labor. The positive part is, that with early diagnosis and the right care, a UTI can be treated safely without harming you or your baby.

In this blog, we will explore the causes, the common symptoms, how doctors treat them, and some simple ways you can reduce your chances of getting an infection. This information will help you stay healthy and comfortable throughout your pregnancy journey.

What is a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)?

According to the best gynecologist doctor in Gurgaon at Miracles Apollo Cradle, a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is a bacterial infection that affects any part of your urinary system- kidneys, bladder, ureters, or urethra. In most cases, it starts in the bladder or urethra, but if left untreated, it can spread to the kidneys. 

How Common is Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) in Pregnancy?

UTI during pregnancy are very common due to several changes in a woman’s body. According to studies, UTIs affect about 2 to 10-13% of pregnant women, especially during the second and third trimesters.

What Causes Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) in Pregnancy?

During pregnancy, your body goes through a lot of changes to support your growing baby. Some of these changes can increase your chances of developing a urinary tract infection (UTI). Here are some common causes of urinary tract infection in pregnant women:

1. Hormonal Changes

Pregnancy hormones, especially progesterone, relax the muscles in your body, including those in your urinary tract. This relaxation slows down the flow of urine, which gives bacteria more time to grow and multiply.

2. Pressure from the Growing Uterus

As your baby grows, your uterus expands and starts pressing on your bladder and urinary tract. This pressure can make it harder for your bladder to empty, leaving behind some urine. That leftover urine becomes a breeding ground for bacteria.

3. Changes in the Urinary Tract

Pregnancy can also cause the ureters (tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder) to widen. This makes it easier for bacteria to travel from the bladder to the kidneys, increasing the risk of a more serious infection.

4. Increased Sugar in Urine

Some pregnant women may have higher sugar levels in their urine, especially if they have gestational diabetes. Bacteria feed on sugar, so this can also increase the chances of infection.

5. Shorter Urethra

Women naturally have a shorter urethra (the tube that carries urine out of the body), which makes it easier for bacteria from outside the body to reach the bladder. During pregnancy, this risk slightly increases due to physical changes and hygiene challenges.

Types of UTI During Pregnancy

Not all urinary tract infections are the same. During pregnancy, UTIs can affect different parts of the urinary system and each type may present different symptoms and levels of seriousness. Understanding the type of UTI helps in recognizing the signs early and getting the right treatment.

Here are the three main types of UTIs commonly seen during pregnancy:

1. Asymptomatic Bacteriuria

This is when bacteria are present in your urine, but you don’t have any noticeable symptoms. It is more common than you might think and often goes unnoticed unless detected through routine urine tests during prenatal visits.

Even without symptoms, untreated asymptomatic bacteriuria can lead to more serious infections, like kidney infections, and increase the risk of preterm labor or low birth weight. That is why early detection and treatment are important, even if you feel perfectly fine.

2. Cystitis (Bladder Infection)

Cystitis is an infection of the bladder, and it is the most common type of UTI during pregnancy. It can cause uncomfortable symptoms like:

  • Burning sensation while urinating

  • Frequent urge to urinate

  • Lower abdominal pain or pressure

  • Cloudy or strong-smelling urine

Cystitis is usually not dangerous if treated early, but it can quickly become more serious if ignored. With proper antibiotics, it typically clears up within a few days.

3. Pyelonephritis (Kidney Infection)

This is the most serious form of UTI during pregnancy. Pyelonephritis occurs when the infection spreads from the bladder to the kidneys. It often requires hospitalization and intravenous (IV) antibiotics.

Symptoms may include:

  • High fever and chills

  • Pain in the back or sides (flank pain)

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Fatigue or weakness

  • Painful urination and urinary urgency

Kidney infections can be dangerous for both mother and baby if left untreated. They may lead to preterm labor, low birth weight, or, in rare cases, sepsis. Quick medical attention is important.

By knowing the different types of UTIs, you can better understand what’s happening in your body and when to seek help. Whether it is a silent infection or one that comes with obvious symptoms, timely diagnosis, and treatment are the keys to protecting your pregnancy's health.

Symptoms of Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) During Pregnancy

UTI symptoms can be uncomfortable and sometimes confusing, especially during pregnancy when your body is already going through so many changes. However, it is important to recognize the signs early so you can get the right treatment and avoid complications.

Here are the most common symptoms of a urinary tract infection in pregnancy:

1. Burning Sensation While Urinating

One of the first signs of a UTI is a sharp, burning feeling when you pee. If it hurts every time you go to the bathroom, it is worth getting checked.

2. Frequent Urge to Urinate

Pregnant women usually feel the need to pee more often, but with a UTI, this urge can feel more intense and uncomfortable. You may also feel like you need to go even when your bladder is nearly empty.

3. Abdominal Pain or Pressure

You might feel a dull ache, cramping, or pressure in your lower belly or pelvis. This can be mistaken for normal pregnancy discomfort, but if it’s persistent, it may be a sign of infection.

4. Cloudy or Strong-Smelling Urine

Changes in your urine’s color, smell, or appearance are also signs of a UTI. If your urine looks cloudy or smells unusually strong or bad, it’s time to speak with your doctor.

5. Blood in Urine

In some cases, UTIs can cause a small amount of blood in your urine, which may look pinkish or slightly red. This should never be ignored.

6. Fever and Chills

If the infection spreads to your kidneys, you may develop a high fever, chills, nausea, and even back pain. This is a more serious condition known as pyelonephritis and needs immediate medical attention.

How Is UTI Diagnosed During Pregnancy?

If you are pregnant and showing signs of a urinary tract infection (UTI) like burning while urinating, cloudy urine, or pelvic discomfort,  your doctor will likely suggest some simple tests to confirm the diagnosis. Early detection is important to keep both you and your baby safe.

1. Urine Sample Test (Urinalysis)

The most common and quick way to diagnose a UTI is through a urinalysis. You will be asked to give a urine sample, which is tested for white blood cells, nitrites, red blood cells and bacteria. This test gives immediate clues if there’s an infection present.

2. Urine Culture

If the urinalysis suggests a UTI, your doctor may order a urine culture to confirm the exact type of bacteria causing the infection. This helps in choosing the most effective and safest antibiotic, especially important during pregnancy. The culture results usually take 24 to 48 hours, but they offer a more accurate diagnosis.

3. Routine Prenatal Urine Checks

Even if you don’t have symptoms, your doctor may still check your urine during routine prenatal visits. That is because some pregnant women develop asymptomatic bacteriuria, a condition where bacteria are present in the urine without symptoms. If left untreated, this can turn into a kidney infection or cause complications like preterm labor.

By combining your symptoms with urine test results, your doctor can make a confident diagnosis and begin safe, timely treatment. Always follow your doctor’s advice and don’t ignore even mild discomfort while urinating.

How to Treat UTI in Pregnancy?

If you are diagnosed with a urinary tract infection (UTI) during pregnancy, don’t panic. UTIs are common and can be safely treated with the right care. UTI  in pregnancy treatment may include:

1. Antibiotics 

Your doctor will prescribe antibiotics that are safe to use during pregnancy. These medicines kill the bacteria causing the infection and usually start relieving symptoms within a few days. It is very important to:

  • Take the full course of antibiotics, even if you feel better before it is finished.

  • Never self-medicate. Only take antibiotics prescribed by your doctor.

  • Some commonly used, pregnancy-safe antibiotics include:

    • Amoxicillin

    • Cephalexin

    • Nitrofurantoin (usually avoided in the last few weeks of pregnancy)

  • Your doctor will choose the safest option based on how far along you are and your medical history.

2. Drink Plenty of Fluids

Drinking plenty of fluids helps clear bacteria from your urinary tract. Aim for at least 8 to 10 glasses of water a day unless your doctor advises otherwise. Clear fluids like water and unsweetened coconut water are ideal.

3. Empty Your Bladder Regularly

Try not to hold in your urine. Use the bathroom right away when you feel the urge to urinate. This helps prevent the growth of bacteria in the bladder.

4. Follow-Up Testing

After finishing your antibiotics, your doctor may ask for a repeat urine test to make sure the infection is completely gone. This is important to prevent a recurrence.

5. Treating Asymptomatic Bacteriuria

Sometimes, bacteria may be present in your urine without any symptoms. Even though you don't feel sick, it still needs treatment during pregnancy to prevent it from turning into a more serious kidney infection.

How to Prevent UTI During Pregnancy?

Here are some doctor-recommended tips that can help you stay infection-free:

1. Stay Hydrated

Stay hydrated by drinking water consistently throughout the day to support urinary tract health. Staying well-hydrated can help clear bacteria from your urinary tract.

2. Don’t Hold in Your Urine

Always respond to the urge to urinate without delay. Holding urine not only gives bacteria the chance to grow and multiply in the bladder but also increases the risk of infection. Ensure to empty your bladder every time you go to the toilet.

3. Practice Good Toilet Hygiene

After using the toilet, make it a habit to wipe from front to back. This simple step helps keep bacteria from the anal region away from the vaginal opening and urinary tract, reducing the risk of infections.

4. Urinate Before and After Intercourse

Engaging in sexual activity may allow bacteria to enter the urinary tract. Urinating both before and after intercourse helps flush out any bacteria that may have entered the urethra, reducing the risk of infection.

5. Wear Breathable Underwear

Wear breathable cotton underwear and avoid tight clothing that can trap heat and moisture. A dry and clean environment around the genitals can help reduce the chance of bacterial growth.

6. Avoid Harsh Soaps and Hygiene Sprays

Stay away from perfumed soaps, bubble baths, or feminine hygiene sprays that can irritate the urinary tract. Use gentle, fragrance-free products for intimate hygiene to avoid irritation and maintain a healthy balance.

7. Take Prenatal Checkups Seriously

Regular urine tests during prenatal visits help detect infections early, even before symptoms start. Always follow through with your doctor’s recommendations and urine screening schedules.

8. Eat a Balanced Diet

Include foods rich in vitamin C and probiotics like yogurt in your diet. These support your immune system and help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in your body.

When to See a Doctor?

If you are experiencing any signs of a UTI, especially burning while urinating, frequent urge to pee, cloudy urine, or lower belly pain, don’t wait; consult a gynaecologist near you immediately.

Conclusion:

Urinary tract infections in pregnancy might sound scary, but with the right knowledge, immediate treatment, and a few healthy habits, they don’t have to be. The key is to stay alert to symptoms, attend regular check-ups, and follow your doctor’s advice.

If you are experiencing any discomfort or have concerns about your health during pregnancy, consult the best gynecologist doctor near you at Miracles Healthcare. Our expert team ensures personalized care, accurate diagnosis, and effective treatment options for you and your baby’s well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, urinary tract infections are fairly common during pregnancy, mainly due to hormonal fluctuations and increased pressure on the bladder from the growing uterus.

Yes, in some cases, UTIs can lead to blood in the urine, known as hematuria.

UTIs should be treated as soon as diagnosed to prevent complications for both mother and baby.

Nitrofurantoin is generally considered safe during most of pregnancy but should be avoided near term.

Pregnancy can increase the risk of urinary tract infections due to hormonal shifts, slower bladder emptying, and changes in the structure of the urinary tract.