Signs & Symptoms of Urine Infection in Pregnancy

Urine infections are also known as urinary tract or bladder infections. Pregnant women are more susceptible to urine infections in pregnancy due to the pressure from the uterus on the bladder. According to the American Pregnancy Association, untreated urine infections can lead to a kidney infection, which can cause preterm labor.

Burning

• One of the first symptoms many women notice is a burning sensation during urination. The burning sensation may be mild but for some women, it is severe and can cause urinating to be very painful.

Change in Urinary Habits

• If your urinary habits suddenly change, this could indicate a bladder infection. Many women experience a sudden urge to urinate, even after emptying the bladder. While increased urination is a sign of pregnancy, it can also indicate a urine infection. In addition, a lack of urination can also be a symptom.

Changes in Urine

• In urine infections, the urine typically looks cloudy, has a foul odor or appears to foam. Though this can be detected at any point during the day, it is most prevalent with the first morning urine.

Fever or Chills

• A urine infection can sometimes be accompanied by fever or chills. This is more common with a kidney infection, which requires prompt medical attention, particularly in pregnancy. Any fever in pregnancy should be reported to your doctor.

Tenderness or Pain

• Urine infections can cause tenderness in the area of the bladder. Pain can also occur in the form of cramps in the lower abdomen or lower back.

Misconceptions

• Some pregnant women may exhibit all of these symptoms or a combination of only a few during a urine infection. However, it is possible to have a urine infection and not have any symptoms. This is referred to as an asymptomatic infection and requires the same treatment as infections that display symptoms.