You may be no more likely to get a urinary tract infection (UTI) when you're pregnant than when you're not pregnant. But you are more likely to have complications from a UTI. Shifts in hormones and the position of your urinary tract may make it easier for bacteria to travel to your kidneys and cause infection. For this reason, your doctor will check you for UTIs throughout your regular prenatal care. If you get an infection, your doctor will treat it with an antibiotic that's safe for you and your baby.
Call Doctor If:
- You have pain or burning when you urinate. The sooner you're treated, the less likely the UTI will become serious.
- You have pain or pressure in your lower abdomen or pain on your sides.
- Your urine looks cloudy, dark, or bloody.
- You have a fever, nausea, or vomiting with any of the above symptoms. Get medical attention immediately.
Step-by-Step Care:
- Get regular prenatal care. Your doctor can detect a UTI even if you have no symptoms.
- When you go to the bathroom, wipe from the front to the back. This keeps bacteria from your anus away from your urinary tract.
- Urinate when you have the urge and empty your bladder all the way. Keeping your system flowing may keep bacteria from flourishing in your urinary tract.
- Wear cotton underwear. It can absorb urine leaks and moisture, which may prevent bacteria from growing.
- Drink plenty of water.
