How To Manage UTI During Pregnancy?

While pregnancy is a unique journey of entering motherhood, it also comes with its challenges. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one such. If you’re pregnant and experiencing that uncomfortable burning sensation while peeing or a constant urge to run to the bathroom, you’re not the only one.

UTIs are one of the most common bacterial infections during pregnancy that affects about 8 percent of expectant mothers. Fortunately, the condition is completely treatable and preventable. However, if left untreated, a UTI can lead to serious complications, including kidney infections and even preterm labor.

The real question is— how do you manage UTIs safely during pregnancy? Read below this article to find out more.

UTI symptoms can range from mild to severe, and some women might not even notice them. Here’s what to look for:

If you experience fever, chills, back pain, or nausea, the infection may have spread to your kidneys, which requires immediate medical attention.

Here are some effective tips to manage UTI safely during pregnancy.

If you suspect a UTI, don’t wait! UTIs in pregnancy can lead to complications if untreated. Doctors usually prescribe pregnancy-safe antibiotics such as

Most UTIs clear up within 3–7 days with antibiotics. The key is to always complete the full course of medication to prevent recurrence.

Hydration is our ultimate secret! Drinking at least 8–10 glasses of water daily can actually help flush bacteria out of your system. Moreover, it also dilutes your urine, making urination less painful.

If you’re prone to UTIs, drink a glass of water after sex to help wash away bacteria.

Cranberries contain compounds that prevent bacteria from sticking to the bladder lining. In fact, studies say that drinking cranberry juice may reduce UTI risk by up to 30 percent.

However, cranberry juice is not a cure, and too much can cause stomach discomfort. Make sure to stick to unsweetened cranberry juice to avoid extra sugar.

Small changes in hygiene habits can make a big difference. Here are simple hygiene tips to prevent UTIs.

Don’t rush in and out of the bathroom! Yes! Holding in urine actually allows bacteria to multiply. The best approach is to try leaning slightly forward while urinating to fully empty the bladder.

Probiotics, or good bacteria, help balance the body’s microbiome and may prevent recurring UTIs. You can include yogurt, kefir, and fermented foods in your diet for a natural boost of probiotics for a healthy gut microbiome.

Steer clear of caffeine, sugary drinks, and spicy foods, as they can irritate the bladder and worsen symptoms. Instead, switch to water and herbal teas.

UTI during pregnancy is a common issue affecting many expecting women. However, untreated UTI can lead to serious complications, which makes it even more essential to identify and diagnose the issue. Moreover, by following simple lifestyle changes, you can effectively prevent the risk of UTIs.