Urine Infection in Pregnancy: What You Should Know

Carrying a baby is exciting, but you want to be sure you’re as healthy as can be. Did you know that pregnancy can lead to urine infections? Here’s what you need to know about urine infections when you’re pregnant.

You may be surprised to learn that pregnant women are susceptible to contracting a urinary tract infection. Every year, about 8% of pregnant women develop a Urinary Tract Infection. Left untreated, it can cause serious harm to you and your baby. Here’s everything you need to know about identifying, preventing, and treating urine infections when pregnant.

What Is a Urine Infection?

A urinary tract infection happens when bacteria enter your urinary tract and start to multiply. UTIs can affect any part of your urinary tract: bladder (cystitis), kidney (pyelonephritis) or urethra (urethritis). 

When you're pregnant, your body goes through changes that increase your risk of developing UTIs. Pregnancy hormones cause the tube that carries urine from your kidneys to your bladder (ureters) to relax and narrow, which slows the flow of urine. This means bacteria have more chance to grow. Your uterus also puts pressure on your bladder, which makes it difficult to empty your bladder fully.

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) says women should be screened for UTIs at antenatal appointments, as catching them early can stop them from causing further issues.

Why Pregnant Women Face Higher Risks

Pregnancy alters your urinary system in several ways. Here is why you become more susceptible:

Physical Changes

Your kidneys work harder during pregnancy, filtering 30-50% more blood. The expanded uterus presses against your bladder, preventing complete emptying. Residual urine becomes a breeding ground for bacteria.

Hormonal Shifts

Progesterone causes smooth muscle relaxation throughout your body, including the ureters. This dilation allows bacteria to travel more easily from the bladder to the kidneys.

pH Level Changes

Pregnancy can alter the pH balance of your urine, making it less acidic. Bacteria prefer this less hostile environment.

Research published by the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) shows that untreated UTIs during pregnancy increase the risk of preterm labour and low birth weight babies.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Some pregnant women experience obvious symptoms, while others have "silent" infections with no noticeable signs. The NHS recommends watching for these warning signals:

Common Symptoms

• Burning sensation when urinating

• Frequent urge to urinate, even when little comes out

• Cloudy, dark, or strong-smelling urine

• Blood in urine

• Lower abdominal or pelvic pain

• Feeling generally unwell or feverish

When Infection Spreads to Kidneys

Kidney infections (pyelonephritis) present more severe symptoms:

• High fever and chills

• Back or side pain

• Nausea and vomiting

• Shaking and weakness

Kidney infections require immediate medical attention. Contact your midwife or doctor straight away if you experience these symptoms.

Getting Diagnosed

Your healthcare provider will ask for a urine sample to confirm infection. The laboratory tests for bacteria, white blood cells, and red blood cells.

Types of Tests

1. Urine dipstick test: Provides quick results at your appointment

2. Urine culture: Identifies the specific bacteria causing infection

3. Sensitivity testing: Determines which antibiotics will work best

The NHS Antenatal and Newborn Screening Programme includes routine urine testing at booking appointments and subsequent visits. Some women have asymptomatic bacteriuria, where bacteria exist in urine without causing symptoms. This still needs treatment during pregnancy.

At myGynaePlus, routine ultrasound scans services form part of comprehensive antenatal care packages, helping detect infections before they become problematic.

Treatment Options That Are Safe

Antibiotics remain the primary treatment for urine infections in pregnancy. Your doctor will prescribe pregnancy-safe options that won't harm your developing baby.

Commonly Prescribed Antibiotics

• Nitrofurantoin (avoid near term)

• Amoxicillin

• Cephalexin

• Trimethoprim (after first trimester)

The course of treatment is normally 7 days but certain infections may need longer. You should take all the medication prescribed even if you start to feel better within a few days. If you don't finish the course of antibiotics there is a chance that some bacteria may be left which could become resistant to that antibiotic.

Doctors can check antibiotic safety in pregnancy using recommendations from the British National Formulary (BNF) guide.

What Happens After Treatment

Your doctor will request a follow-up urine test to confirm the infection has cleared. Some women need ongoing monitoring or preventive antibiotics if infections recur frequently.

Potential Complications

Untreated urine infections in pregnancy can lead to serious outcomes. The risks include:

For Mother

• Kidney infection requiring hospitalization

• Sepsis (blood infection)

• Anaemia

• High blood pressure

For Baby

• Preterm birth

• Low birth weight

• Developmental concerns

• Increased risk of neonatal infection

A study by the UK Health Security Agency found that pregnant women with untreated UTIs face double the risk of delivering before 37 weeks compared to those who receive prompt treatment.

Prevention Strategies

You can reduce your risk of developing urine infections in pregnancy by following these practical steps:

Hydration Matters

Drink 8-10 glasses of water daily. Adequate hydration flushes bacteria from your urinary system before infection develops. Water remains the best choice, though unsweetened cranberry juice may offer additional protection.

Bathroom Habits

• Empty your bladder completely when urinating

• Don't hold urine for long periods

• Urinate before and after sexual intercourse

• Wipe from front to back after using the toilet

Clothing Choices

Wear cotton underwear that allows air circulation. Avoid tight-fitting trousers or synthetic materials that trap moisture.

Personal Hygiene

Avoid scented soaps, bubble baths, and feminine hygiene products that can irritate the urethra. Clean the genital area with plain water or mild, unscented soap.

Dietary Considerations

Some evidence suggests that vitamin C may help prevent UTIs by making urine more acidic. Foods rich in vitamin C include oranges, strawberries, bell peppers, and broccoli.

When to Seek Medical Help

Don't wait if you suspect a urine infection. Early treatment prevents complications. Contact your healthcare provider if you notice:

• Any symptoms of UTI

• Fever above 38°C

• Severe back or abdominal pain

• Symptoms that don't improve after 2-3 days of treatment

• Blood in urine

myGynaePlus offers accessible consultation services where expectant mothers can discuss concerns about urinary health and receive appropriate care guidance.

Managing Recurrent Infections

Some women experience multiple UTIs during pregnancy. If you have three or more infections, your doctor might recommend:

• Low-dose preventive antibiotics taken daily

• More frequent urine testing

• Investigation for underlying causes

• Referral to a urologist or specialist

The RCOG provides specific protocols for managing recurrent UTIs in pregnancy, balancing the need for treatment with antibiotic stewardship principles.

Supporting Your Recovery

While antibiotics tackle the infection, you can support healing through self-care:

• Rest when possible

• Continue drinking plenty of fluids

• Use a heating pad on your lower abdomen (not too hot)

• Avoid caffeine and alcohol

• Take paracetamol for pain relief (following recommended doses)

Never take ibuprofen or aspirin during pregnancy without medical advice.

The Role of Antenatal Care

Regular antenatal appointments provide opportunities for early detection. Your midwife or doctor checks for signs of infection during routine visits. Attending all scheduled appointments ensures problems get caught early.

myGynaePlus provides personalized antenatal care that includes regular monitoring for common pregnancy complications, including urinary tract infections.

Why Choose Specialist Care for Pregnancy Related Urinary Health?

myGynaePlus understands how important it is for you to choose your own healthcare provider when seeking support with pregnancy urine infections that can affect both you and your baby. That's why we provide clinically managed antenatal care, with early detection of urine infections, safe and appropriate treatments and follow up as needed.

Our clinicians are experts in their field and adhere to strict UK guidelines and evidence based protocols so urine infections are caught early and treated with medication that is safe to take in pregnancy. Appointments are 45 minutes long so we never make you feel rushed and allow time to go through any results with you and reassure you about anything you may need.

Whether you want additional antenatal support alongside your scheduled appointments or need tailored support for urinary health outside of your pregnancy timeline, myGynaePlus is a safe and discreet place for you to go.

Moving Forward With Confidence

Urine infections during pregnancy are something to take care of but should clear up with treatment. By knowing the symptoms and seeking early treatment you are taking care of both yourself and your baby. 

Prevention is easy and there are things you can do to lower your risk. With regular antenatal checks any issues can be addressed before they become serious. Listen to your body and ask your health care provider any questions you may have. You deserve to have a happy and healthy pregnancy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prevent urine infections in pregnancy naturally?

While no method guarantees prevention, staying well-hydrated, maintaining good hygiene, and emptying your bladder regularly reduce your risk. Drinking cranberry juice may help, though evidence remains mixed. Always attend antenatal appointments where routine screening catches infections early, even before symptoms appear.

How quickly do antibiotics work for pregnancy UTIs?

Most women notice symptom improvement within 24-48 hours of starting antibiotics. Complete the full course even if you feel better, as this prevents bacteria from surviving and causing another infection. If symptoms persist after three days, contact your doctor for reassessment and possible treatment adjustment.

Will a urine infection harm my baby?

Treated promptly, most UTIs don't affect your baby. Left untreated, infections can lead to preterm labour, low birth weight, and other complications. This is why healthcare providers take urinary infections seriously during pregnancy and treat them quickly with pregnancy-safe antibiotics.

Can I have a UTI without symptoms during pregnancy?

Yes, asymptomatic bacteriuria affects 2-10% of pregnant women. You have bacteria in your urine without feeling unwell. Routine screening at antenatal appointments detects these silent infections, which still need treatment because they can progress to symptomatic infections or kidney problems.

Are all antibiotics safe during pregnancy for treating UTIs?

No, doctors prescribe specific antibiotics proven safe during pregnancy. Nitrofurantoin, amoxicillin, and cephalexin are commonly used. Your doctor considers your pregnancy stage, the bacteria type, and any allergies when choosing treatment. Never take leftover antibiotics or someone else's medication while pregnant.