Infection during Pregnancy

Infection in the urinary tract is the most probable infection that pregnant women are prone to. Approximately one to three percent of women suffer with it due to the expansion of the uterus. It does not let the bladder to empty itself completely due to its growing size. This exposes the urinary tract to bacterial growth leading to an infection. This will force you to go even when the bladder is almost empty creating an uncomfortable situation. Small amounts of left urine are the best place for bacterial growth. You should lean ahead so that the bladder empties itself completely.

The main cause of the urinary tract infections is the E. coli. bacteria, that is generally found in the intestine. In same rare cases it is also caused due to the Group B step (GBS) bacterium and serious cases can also make the baby ill. To cure such conditions an oral antibiotic will be enough during the pregnancy. If it occurs late during labor IV antibiotics are used to keep the baby safe.

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You may be advised by the doctor to go for a urine culture in the beginning of the pregnancy as well as in the third trimester. It is important because a small percentage of women also have infections without showing any symptoms which are equally important to treat. In lack of a treatment the baby can get ill and you may also suffer a kidney infection, low weight of the bay or a premature birth. You may be also checked using a dipstick for any symptoms of bacteria in the urine during each prenatal visit to your doctor. The dipstick test also works similar to the way home pregnancy test works. But this is not as accurate as a urine culture test.

Some common symptoms

• Tend to urinate frequently
• Suffer pain a burning sensation while urinating
• Blood in the Urine
• Pain in the lower abdomen

If you come across any of these symptoms you should immediately get in touch with your doctor and send you sample of urine to the laboratory for a urine culture test. If the doctor finds that you have an infection there is nothing to worry. Simple antibiotic will help you to cure the infection but if the problem persists for more than three days of medication, you will have to take some alternative treatment.

Since, this is a very common problem there is absolutely nothing to worry and in case you also have a urinary tract infection make sure you take the medicines as directed without fail.

Related posts:

1. Important Tests during Pregnancy
2. Prenatal Tests for Pregnant Women
3. When Should You Really Call a Doctor during Pregnancy?
4. Be Cautious With What You Eat During Pregnancy
5. Swine Flu and Pregnancy
6. Pregnancy Complications
7. Pregnancy and Weight Gain
8. Depression during Pregnancy
9. Choosing the Right Obstetrician to Manage Your Pregnancy
10. Uterine Rupture