UTI or urinary tract infection is a common infection that affects millions of people all over the world. It happens when bacteria enter the urinary tract and start multiplying.

Women are at higher risk of developing UTIs than men, and pregnancy adds to the risk. Untreated UTIs during pregnancy can lead to severe consequences for both the mother and the baby.

What is UTI during pregnancy?

UTI is an infection that happens in any part of the urinary tract- bladder, ureters, kidneys, or urethra.

During pregnancy, the increased size of the uterus and hormonal changes cause changes in the urinary tract that make pregnant women more susceptible to UTIs. Untreated UTIs during pregnancy can lead to several health complications for both the mother and the baby.

Complications from untreated UTI in mother

If a pregnant woman develops a UTI and does not get treated, it can lead to several complications that can affect her health and the health of her baby.

Preterm labor and delivery

If a UTI is left untreated during pregnancy, it can lead to preterm labor and delivery. A preterm baby is born before the 37th week of pregnancy, and it can lead to several complications like respiratory distress syndrome and infections.

Preterm delivery is also a leading cause of long-term disability and death in infants.

Pyelonephritis

UTI left untreated during pregnancy can spread from the lower urinary tract to the kidneys, causing pyelonephritis. Pyelonephritis is a severe infection of the kidneys that can lead to complications like sepsis, kidney damage, and early delivery.

Intrauterine growth restriction

Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is a condition where the baby does not grow at a normal rate inside the womb, leading to low birth weight and other complications.

UTIs left untreated during pregnancy can lead to IUGR due to inflammation in the uterus that affects blood flow to the baby.

Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia is a severe complication that can develop during pregnancy, leading to high blood pressure and damage to organs like the liver and kidneys.

UTIs left untreated during pregnancy can increase the risk of preeclampsia, leading to complications like placental abruption, fetal distress, and premature delivery.

Complications from untreated UTI in the baby

If a pregnant woman develops a UTI and does not get treated, it can lead to several complications that can affect the health of the baby.

Low birth weight

UTIs left untreated during pregnancy can lead to low birth weight in babies due to intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) caused by inflammation in the uterus that affects blood flow to the baby.

Infections

Babies born to mothers with untreated UTIs are at higher risk of infections like sepsis, pneumonia, and meningitis.

Respiratory distress syndrome

Babies born to mothers with untreated UTIs are at higher risk of respiratory distress syndrome, a condition that affects the lungs and breathing and can cause long-term breathing problems.

Preventing and treating UTI during pregnancy

UTIs during pregnancy can be prevented and treated with simple measures like drinking plenty of water, urinating frequently, wiping from front to back after using the bathroom, and practicing good hygiene.

Antibiotics are used to treat UTIs during pregnancy, and pregnant women should not self-medicate but should consult a doctor before taking any antibiotics.

Conclusion

UTIs during pregnancy can lead to severe consequences for both the mother and the baby if left untreated. Pregnant women should take preventive measures and seek medical attention if they suspect a UTI to ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy.