Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) in Pregnancy
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection in your bladder or urinary tract (where pee is made and leaves your body). UTIs are common in pregnancy.
During pregnancy, the tube where pee comes out (urethra) becomes more relaxed. This makes it easier for germs to enter and cause an infection.
It can also be harder to empty your bladder all the way. When urine stays in the bladder, germs can grow more easily.
What You May Notice
- Needing to pee more often, with only a small amount coming out
- Burning or pain when you pee
- Pelvic cramping or pain
A fever with strong back pain may mean you have a kidney infection. Call your clinic or go to the hospital right away if you have fever and strong back pain.
Treatment
If your urine test shows a UTI, your provider will prescribe antibiotics. You may also get medicine to help with bladder pain or spasms.
What You Can Do
To help prevent UTIs:
- Drink six to eight glasses of water each day
- If you have had UTIs before, you can drink unsweetened cranberry juice
- Pee every two to three hours during the day
- Go to the bathroom as soon as you feel the urge—do not hold it
- Pee after sex to help flush out germs
For more information on common pregnancy symptoms check out:
Your Body
