Learn about urinary tract infections in early pregnancy: causes, symptoms, and treatment options. Stay informed to enjoy a safe and healthy pregnancy.

Introduction: During pregnancy, the body undergoes various changes, including hormonal fluctuations that can affect the urinary tract and make pregnant women more susceptible to urinary tract infections (UTIs). UTIs are common bacterial infections that primarily affect the bladder, but can also spread to the kidneys if left untreated. It is crucial to identify and treat UTIs promptly, especially early in pregnancy, as they can pose risks to both the mother and the developing fetus.

Risk factors: Although UTIs can occur at any time during pregnancy, they are more common in the early stages. Several risk factors contribute to increased susceptibility of pregnant women to UTIs. First, hormonal changes cause the muscles of the urinary tract to relax, which reduces the flow of urine and increases the volume of the bladder. Second, the growing uterus puts pressure on the bladder, decreasing its ability to empty completely. In addition, the presence of glucose in the urine (glycosuria), relatively common during pregnancy, provides a suitable environment for bacteria to proliferate, increasing the risk of infection.

Note: UTIs in early pregnancy require immediate medical attention to avoid complications and ensure the well-being of mother and baby.

1. Symptoms: UTIs can present a variety of symptoms, although some pregnant women may remain asymptomatic. The most common signs of a UTI in early pregnancy include frequent and painful urination, a strong urge to urinate, cloudy or bloody urine, and pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen. It is important not to ignore these symptoms and go to the doctor to obtain an accurate diagnosis.
2. Dangers to the mother: If left untreated, UTIs can lead to more serious infections, such as kidney infections (pyelonephritis), which can cause high fever, chills, and flank pain. Untreated UTIs can also cause premature labor and delivery complications.
3. Risks to the fetus: UTIs in early pregnancy can increase the risk of certain complications for the baby, such as low birth weight and developmental abnormalities. Therefore, it is essential to diagnose and treat UTIs promptly to minimize potential harm to the fetus.

To diagnose an ITU at the beginning of pregnancy, the doctor usually collects a urine sample to analyze it. If an ITU is confirmed, appropriate antibiotics will be prescribed, taking into account the safety of the specific medication during pregnancy.

UTIs in Early Pregnancy

What is an iTu?

An IU is an infection that affects any part of the urinary tract, including kidneys, bladder, ureters and urethra. It is usually caused by bacteria that penetrate the urethra and spread to other parts of the urinary tract. During pregnancy, hormonal changes can alter the urinary system, making it more susceptible to infections.

IU risk factors in the early stages of pregnancy:

• Prior background of ITU
• Current or past infections of the reproductive system
• Diabetes
• Sexual relations
• Use of certain types of contraceptives

Signs and symptoms:

1. Increased urinary frequency
2. Urgency to urinate
3. Sensation of ardor when urinating
4. Murky or strong smell urine
5. Pain or discomfort in the lower part of the abdomen or back

To diagnose an ITU at the beginning of pregnancy, health professionals can perform a urine crop to identify the specific bacteria that causes the infection. Immediate treatment with antibiotics is essential to prevent the infection from extending to the kidneys or causes other complications. In addition, modifications in lifestyle, such as drinking a lot of water, urinating frequently and maintaining good hygiene, can help reduce IU risk in pregnant women.

Understanding UTIs

Signs and symptoms:

1. Sensation of burning or pain when urinating
2. Increased urinary frequency
3. Murky or strong smell urine
4. Discomfort or pressure on the pelvis
5. Low abdominal pain
6. Feeling of need to urinate even when the bladder is empty

The early detection and treatment of urinary infections are crucial, especially in pregnant women, since if they are not treated, more serious complications, such as kidney infections and premature childbirth. It is essential to seek medical attention to the first sign of urinary discomfort or changes in the color or smell of urine. A rapid treatment with adequate antibiotics can effectively eliminate infection and avoid its progression.

Being aware of the signs and symptoms of ITU, understanding their potential risks and applying preventive measures can help people, especially pregnant women, reduce their susceptibility to ITU and guarantee their general wel l-being. Regular prenatal care, which include urine analysis, can help the early detection of ITU and minimize possible adverse effects for both the mother and the developing baby.

The Prevalence of UTIs in Pregnant Women

The statistics related to the incidence of ITU in pregnant women highlight the importance of this issue:

1. About 2-10% of pregnant women develop ITU during pregnancy.
2. STIs are more frequent in the second quarter.
3. Approximately 30-40% of unreasonable IU progress to kidney infections, which represents a higher risk for pregnant women.

On the basis of a study conducted by Smith et al. In 2018, it was found that the prevalence of ITU in pregnant women was 8. 5%, with the highest incidence reported among women from 20 to 30 years.

These statistics emphasize the importance of medical care providers examine pregnant women to detect ITI and take appropriate measures for timely diagnosis and treatment. The application of preventive strategies, such as maintaining adequate hygiene, drinking a sufficient amount of water and urinating frequently, can also significantly reduce the risk of developing IU during pregnancy.

Risk Factors for Urinary Tract Infections During Early Pregnancy

There are several factors that can increase the probability of suffering from an IU at the beginning of pregnancy. An important risk factor is hormonal changes. During pregnancy, hormonal changes can alter the functioning of urinary tract, making them more susceptible to bacterial colonization. In addition, the expansion uterus can also exert pressure on the bladder, obstructing normal urine flow and causing urinary stasis, which can increase the risk of bacterial proliferation.

Another important risk factor for UTIs in early pregnancy is anatomical changes. As the uterus expands, it can compress the ureters, which are the tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder. This compression can cause urine to pool in the ureters, creating an ideal environment for bacteria to multiply. Additionally, changes in the position of the urinary bladder can alter the normal flushing action of urine, allowing bacteria to persist in the urinary tract.

Important: Previous UTIs also contribute to the risk of developing UTIs during early pregnancy. Women with a history of UTIs are more likely to experience recurrent infections during pregnancy. Therefore, it is essential that healthcare professionals obtain a complete medical history to identify high-risk individuals.

• Other risk factors may be
1. Mellitus diabetes
2. Kidney abnormalities
3. Urinary tract anomalies
4. Maternal age
5. Low socioeconomic level
6. urinary catheterization

Identifying and addressing these risk factors is crucial to mitigating the occurrence of UTIs during the early stages of pregnancy. Health professionals should educate pregnant women about the importance of maintaining good hygiene practices and seeking medical advice quickly if UTI symptoms appear. By controlling and minimizing these risk factors, healthcare professionals can help protect the health and well-being of both the mother and the developing baby.

Symptoms and Complications of Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) in Expectant Mothers

Symptoms: UTIs in pregnant women can present with distinctive symptoms that should not be ignored. These symptoms may include frequent urination, a burning sensation when urinating, cloudy or strong-smelling urine, pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen, and even fever and chills. It is essential that pregnant women who experience any of these symptoms contact their doctor immediately, as untreated UTIs can lead to more serious complications.

Complications:

• Premature birth: UTIs can increase the risk of preterm birth, which can have adverse consequences for both mother and baby.
• Kidney infections: if not treated, urinary infections can affect the kidneys and cause a more serious infection known as pyelonephritis. This condition can cause high fever, back pain and, potentially, renal damage.

The appropriate treatment of ITU during pregnancy is crucial to minimize potential risks associated with these infections. Regular prenatal care and rapid treatment of ITU can help guarantee the wel l-being of future mothers and babies.

Effect of Urinary Tract Infections on the Developing Fetus

1. Greater risk of premature delivery: STIs have been associated with a higher risk of premature delivery. The infection can cause inflammation and irritation of the uterus, which in turn can trigger contractions and premature rupture of membranes. Babies born prematurely run a greater risk of suffering complications and delays in development, so it is essential to detect and treat urinary infections during pregnancy.

According to a study published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Canada, the pregnant women with ITU were much more likely to give birth before those who did not suffer (15. 2% compared to 4. 2%). The risk of premature delivery was even greater in cases where ITIs were not treated or treated inappropriately.

2. Possible fetal infection: In some cases, ITU can cause a fetal infection if urinary tract bacteria amount to the uterus. This can increase the risk of intrauterine infections, which can cause complications such as fetal growth delay, congenital anomalies or even the death of the fetus. The severity of the impact of the infection on the fetus depends, ultimately, on several factors, such as the type and duration of the ITU and the general health state of the mother.

3. Maternal fever and dehydration: STIs can cause fever and discomfort in pregnant women. A high maternal body temperature can be harmful to the development fetus, being able to cause neural tube defects or other anomalies. In addition, the frequent need to urinate associated with ITU can contribute to dehydration if fluid intake is inadequate, which is also unfavorable for maternal and fetal health.

Diagnosing UTIs in Early Pregnancy

When it comes to diagnosing an IU at the beginning of pregnancy, health professionals use several methods to confirm the presence of an infection. A widely used technique is urine analysis, which consists of analyzing a urine sample. The presence of certain indicators, such as an increase in the number of white blood cells, red blood cells or bacteria in the urine, can indicate the existence of an urinary infection. A positive urine analysis provides a preliminary indication of an ITU, but it is often necessary to perform more tests to confirm it.

Ultrasound: In some cases, an ultrasound can be performed to evaluate the kidneys and bladder. This image technique uses sound waves to create images of these organs and can help identify any anomaly or possible complication associated with an ITU in the early stages of pregnancy.

Urine cultivation: urine cultivation is a laboratory test that is frequently used to confirm the presence of an ITU. A small urine sample is collected and incubated in a culture medium, allowing the bacteria present to grow and multiply. By identifying specific bacteria that cause infection, health professionals can determine the most appropriate antibiotic treatment.

1. Urine analysis
2. Ultrasound
3. Urine cultivation

Treatment Options for Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) in Pregnant Women

1. Antibiotic therapy: Antibiotics are the main treatment of ITU in pregnant women. These medications act to eliminate bacteria that cause infection and relieve symptoms. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate antibiotic depending on the specific bacterium that causes infection and its susceptibility to various drugs. Some antibiotics that are usually prescribed for ITU during pregnancy are:

• Amoxicillin
• Nitrofurantoí
• Cephalexin
• Trimetoprima-sulfamethoxazole

1. Amoxicillin: This antibiotic is considered safe for use in pregnancy and is often prescribed as firs t-line treatment for ITU. It is effective against a wide range of bacteria and is usually well tolerated.
2. Nitrofurantoí: nitrofurantoína is another antibiotic that is frequently prescribed for ITIs in pregnant women. Its use is usually safe during the second and third trimester of pregnancy and has demonstrated its effectiveness in the treatment of ITU caused by common bacteria.
3. Cephalexin: Cephaalexin is an antibiotic of cephalosporin that is usually used to treat IU during pregnancy. It is generally safe and well tolerated, but it may not be effective against certain bacterial strains.
4. Trimetopriga-sulfamethoxazole: This combination of antibiotics is mainly used to treat uncomplicated ITU. In general, its use is safe during pregnancy, but it should be avoided during the first quarter due to potential risks for the development fetus.

Note: It is essential to complete all the antibiotic treatment prescribed by the health professional to guarantee the complete eradication of the infection and avoid its reappearance.

Preventive Measures to Reduce the Risk of Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) in Early Pregnancy

1. Stay well hydrated: Maintain optimal hydration levels is essential to prevent urinary infections. Drinking an adequate amount of water not only helps eliminate urinary tract bacteria, but also dilute urine, making bacteria less likely to prosper. It is recommended to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water a day during pregnancy.

2. Practicing good hygiene: practicing adequate hygiene in the genital zone can significantly reduce the risk of ITU. It is important to always clean upwards after going to the bathroom to avoid the spread of bacteria of the anal region to the urethra. In addition, bathing regularly with soft and unreasonable soaps and avoiding the use of irritants such as vaginal showers or powders can help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the vaginal area.

Note: It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before using any product or undergo any treatment during pregnancy.

3. Wear breathable clothing: Choosing baggy and breathable tissues for underwear and clothing can favor adequate air circulation in the genital area, reducing moisture and avoiding the proliferation of bacteria. Synthetic materials and tight garments should be avoided, since they can catch heat and humidity, creating an environment conducive to bacterial growth.

1. 4. Empty the bladder frequently: retaining urine for prolonged periods can allow bacteria to multiply and increase the risk of ITU. Pregnant women must make a conscious effort to empty the bladder regularly, making sure that there are no urine remains.
2. 5. Shower instead of bathing: although bathrooms can be relaxing, sitting in a bathtub for a prolonged period may increase the possibilities of entering bacteria in the urethra. Opting for showers instead of bathrooms can minimize this risk.

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Author of the article

Dr.Greenblatt M.

Medical oncologist at the Robert Larner College of Medicine, MD, at the University of Vermont