Urinary Tract Infection During Pregnancy

What causes a urinary tract infection during pregnancy?

Urinary tract infection during pregnancy is caused by the build up of bacteria in the urinary tract.  Not normally present in urine, this bacteria comes from the skin, bowels, and in the stool itself.  Once introduced to your urinary tract from one of these sources, bacteria can multiply, and cause you pain and irritation.

You may be somewhat more disposed to urinary tract infection during pregnancy because your urinary tract is partially blocked by your enlarged uterus.

Symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI) can include:

  • pain or burning when urinating
  • pain during sexual intercourse
  • needing to urinate more frequently
  • blood or mucous in your urine
  • lower abdominal pain
  • chills, and/or fever
  • nausea and vomiting

If you think you may have a UTI, see your doctor immediately as an untreated infection can lead to bladder infection and even kidney disease, which could be life-threatening.  Treated properly, UTI's will pose no threat to your health or the health of your baby.

Ways of preventing UTI's:

  • drink plenty of fluids - at least eight glasses of water per day
  • wipe from front to back
  • avoid strong soap, douches and cleaning products that can kill 'good' bacteria and irritate your urinary tract
  • urinate right after sexual intercourse
  • avoid long or frequent baths
  • constipation
  • wear cotton underwear and avoid tights
  • seek acupuncture and TCM to help with constipation and general urinary health
  • diet modification such as drinking pure cranberry juice and more
  • massage therapy and yoga can help position your pelvis better so that your uterus does not impinge upon your unitary tract as much

Contact us for a FREE consultation on how natural therapy can help you with preventing urinary tract infection during pregnancy.

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