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Human Inner Organs

Pregnancy Stages

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Placenta: what you need to know

A Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) during pregnancy is a common condition that needs prompt treatment due to potential risks for both the mother and baby. Here's a quick overview:

Why It's Common in Pregnancy

Hormonal changes relax the urinary tract, slowing urine flow.

The growing uterus can put pressure on the bladder and ureters.

Pregnant women have glycosuria (glucose in urine), which encourages bacterial growth.

Types of UTIs in Pregnancy

Asymptomatic bacteriuria – No symptoms, but bacteria are present in the urine.

Cystitis – Infection of the bladder; causes symptoms like urgency, frequency, and burning.

Pyelonephritis – Serious kidney infection, often with fever, flank pain, and vomiting.

Symptoms of Symptomatic UTI

Burning sensation while urinating

Frequent urge to urinate

Cloudy or foul-smelling urine

Pelvic pain or pressure

Fever and chills (especially if infection reaches the kidneys)

Diagnosis

Urinalysis and urine culture to confirm infection and identify the bacteria.

Routine screening is done even without symptoms (usually during the first prenatal visit).

Treatment

Safe antibiotics like amoxicillin, nitrofurantoin, or cephalexin (depends on gestational age and sensitivity).

Asymptomatic bacteriuria is also treated to prevent complications.

Always follow up with a test of cure after antibiotics.

Complications if Untreated

Pyelonephritis

Preterm labor

Low birth weight

Preeclampsia

Prevention Tips

Drink plenty of water

Urinate frequently and after in*******se

Wipe front to back

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Catheterization During Labour: Why It’s Sometimes Necessary

You might be wondering why a catheter (a small tube placed into the bladder to drain urine) is sometimes used during labour—especially if you’ve never experienced it before.

Here’s the thing: during active labour, especially if you’re on epidural anesthesia or you're in so much pain, many women can’t feel the urge to urinate or find it difficult to empty their bladder.

A full bladder can get in the way of the baby's head descending properly, slow down labour, or even make pushing more difficult. In such cases, your healthcare team may decide to insert a urinary catheter to keep your bladder empty and labour progressing smoothly.

Sometimes, catheterization is also done before a cesarean section to keep the bladder out of the way and reduce the risk of injury during surgery.

It’s usually a quick and safe procedure. You may feel a little discomfort, but it’s nothing to fear—and it’s done with your comfort and safety in mind.

Quick facts:

It’s not done for every woman in labour.

It’s often temporary—just to help things along.

You’ll be informed before it’s done, and your consent matters.

It helps avoid complications from a full bladder during labour or surgery.

So if your nurse or doctor mentions catheterization, know that it’s a routine part of care for certain labour situations, and it’s meant to support a safe delivery—for you and your baby.

©️ Student Nurses & Midwives - Health Care Champions