Urinary tract infections are common among women, and most have either heard of them or experienced them at least once. During pregnancy, however, UTIs become more important and require special attention.


Here’s what you need to know: (1)(2)

  • A UTI is a bacterial infection in any part of the urinary tract, which may include the bladder, ureters, urethra, or even the kidneys.
  • The risk increases during pregnancy, especially between weeks 6–24, affecting about 8% of pregnant women.
  • Symptoms include burning during urination, frequent urge to urinate, cloudy urine, and other symptoms depending on the site of infection.
  • UTIs are easily treated with the appropriate antibiotics, according to urine culture results.
  • If treated correctly, UTIs do not harm the mother or the fetus.

Why Are Pregnant Women More Susceptible?

During pregnancy, physiological and hormonal changes increase the risk of UTIs: (3)

  • Increased pressure on the bladder from the growing uterus can obstruct urine flow and increase infection risk.
  • The ureters (tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder) widen during pregnancy, making it easier for bacteria to reach the kidneys.

Types of UTIs in Pregnancy

Pregnant women may experience three main types of UTIs: (1)(2)

  1. Asymptomatic bacteriuria (most common, 2–10% of pregnant women):
  2. Bacteria are present in urine without pain or other symptoms.
  3. Detected only through routine screening and should be treated to prevent progression to more severe infection.
  4. Cystitis (bladder infection) (1–2%):
  5. Causes burning, pain during urination, and frequent urge to urinate.
  6. Pyelonephritis (kidney infection) (1–2%):
  7. The most serious type, usually resulting from untreated cystitis or asymptomatic bacteriuria.
  8. Causes fever, flank pain, and urinary symptoms.
  9. Can lead to complications for both mother and fetus if not treated promptly.

How Can I Tell If I Have a UTI?

Common signs and symptoms include: (4)

  • Burning or pain during urination
  • Frequent urination with small amounts of urine
  • Lower abdominal or back pain/pressure
  • Foul-smelling urine
  • Cloudy urine or blood in urine
  • Fatigue
  • Chills, fever, and flank pain (if infection reaches the kidneys)

Note: UTIs can sometimes be asymptomatic, so a urine test between weeks 12–16 of pregnancy (or at the first prenatal visit) is recommended.

Urine Testing

  • How it’s done: You provide a urine sample, which is analyzed in a lab for bacteria.
  • Why it matters: Early detection prevents bacteria from reaching the bladder or kidneys, avoiding serious complications for mother and baby.

Importance of Prompt Treatment

Untreated UTIs during pregnancy may lead to: (3)

  • Kidney damage
  • Preeclampsia (pregnancy-induced high blood pressure)
  • Preterm labor
  • Low birth weight

Treatment of UTIs During Pregnancy

  • Antibiotics are used for 3–7 days, depending on the drug and severity; sometimes up to 14 days.
  • Proper treatment completely clears the infection without long-term effects on mother or fetus. (5)

Common Safe Antibiotics

  • Amoxicillin/clavulanate (Augmentin, Amoclan)
  • Fosfomycin (Monurol)
  • Cephalexin (Cefalex)
  • Symptom-relief medications may also be prescribed.

Kidney infection: Requires hospitalization and IV antibiotics.

Recurrent infections: Sometimes low-dose antibiotics are prescribed regularly to prevent recurrence.

Follow-Up After Treatment

  • A repeat urine test may be requested to confirm bacteria eradication, ensuring the infection does not return.
  • If symptoms recur, see your urinary tract specialists promptly for safe and effective treatment.

Simple Prevention Tips

You can reduce the risk of UTIs during pregnancy by: (3)

  • Drinking plenty of water to flush bacteria from the urinary tract
  • Not holding urine; go to the bathroom promptly
  • Wiping front to back after using the toilet
  • Urinating after intercourse to reduce infection risk
  • Wearing cotton underwear for better ventilation




References

  1. Obstetrics & Gynecology - Urinary Tract Infections in Pregnant Individuals
  2. American Pregnancy Association - Urinary Tract Infection – UTI During Pregnancy
  3. Pregnancy Birth and Baby - Urinary tract infections (UTIs) during pregnancy
  4. AAFP - Urinary Tract Infections During Pregnancy
  5. Medscape - Urinary Tract Infections in Pregnancy Treatment & Management