UTI may occur during pregnancy due to the pressure put on ureter as the uterus expand due to growing fetus. the increase production of progesterone (hormone) relaxes the bladder and ureter muscles causing urine to stay longer in the bladder. this increases your chances of developing UTI. Changes in hormone levels and immune system function are the major reason a pregnant women is more vulnerable to infections. pregnancy cause urine to be more concentrated. It contains certain hormone and sugar that encourages bacterial growth and makes your body unable to fight off bad bacteria.
Common Signs and symptoms of a UTI include:
- burning or painful
- urination
- cloudy or blood-tinged urine
- pelvic or lower back pain
- frequent urination
- feeling that you have to urinate frequently
- fever
- nausea or vomiting
2 to 10 percent of pregnant women tend to have UTI that may frequently occur. Women who have had UTIs before are more likely to get them during pregnancy.
How to prevent infections in pregnancy
Infections during pregnancy can be prevented by taking daily simple precautions. that way, you can reduce possible risk to you and your baby. In order to prevent Infections during pregnancy, you may do the following:
- wash your hands regularly with soap and water after using the bathroom, preparing raw meat and vegetables, or playing with children.
- Properly cook meats until they are well-done. You may re-cook meats, such as hot dogs and deli meats.
- Avoid unpasteurized, or raw, dairy products.
- Don’t share eating utensils, cups, and food with other people.
- Practice safe sex and get tested for sexually transmitted infections.
- Make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date.
Also Read: Urinary Tract Infection: 6 Ways to Get Rid of it Without Antibiotic
Available treatment options
You can help reduce symptoms of UTIs during your pregnancy by:
- empty the bladder frequently, especially before and after sex
- wearing breathable underwear( cotton)
- avoiding douches, perfumes, or sprays
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
- avoiding any harsh soaps or body wash in the genital area
Your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic which is safe for the pregnancy and still effective in killing bacteria.
Nigerian foods for UTI during Pregnancy
The following foods will provide nutrients and improve the urinary tract health:
- pears
- bananas
- green beans
- potatoes
- lean proteins
- bread, especially whole grain
- nuts
- eggs
- red and green peppers
- kiwifruit
- broccoli
- cranberries juice
- oranges
if you don’t find it easy to constantly consume this food, you can make a healthy smoothie with them, click here for Nigerian smoothies for UTI
Conclusion
During pregnancy, any infection may be very dangerous to you and your baby. Untreated UTIs during pregnancy can lead to a life threatening condition. it is necessary to see your doctor from time to time during pregnancy as sometimes the infection might not show symptoms and can be discover through urine test. let your doctor know of any symptoms you don’t understand and make sure you take every last pill of the prescribed drugs.
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Related Article:
- 3 Nigerian herbs to flush out Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
- Treating UTI as a Nigerian-What to Eat and What to Avoid
- 5 Reasons Why Your UTIs keeps coming Back