What can be found in your urine when pregnant?

You’ll have a urine test at your first prenatal visit and at later visits, too. The urinalysis tests for sugar, protein, ketones, bacteria, and blood cells to make sure you don’t have a condition such as a UTI, gestational diabetes, or preeclampsia.

What bacteria can be found in urine during pregnancy?

Urinary tract infections are common during pregnancy, and the most common causative organism is Escherichia coli. Asymptomatic bacteriuria can lead to the development of cystitis or pyelonephritis.

What does a trace of protein in urine mean when pregnant?

A very high amount of protein in anyone’s urine, formally called proteinuria, can be a sign of kidney problems. In pregnancy specifically, it’s an indication of preeclampsia when combined with high blood pressure after 20 weeks’ gestation.

What happens if you have bacteria in your urine while pregnant?

Because of the changes happening in their body, pregnant women are more likely to develop a kidney infection (pyelonephritis) if they have a urinary infection. The infection may also contribute to a baby who is born preterm (before 37 weeks), or at a low birthweight (weighs less than 2500 g (5.5 pounds)).

Does bacteria in urine affect pregnancy?

The presence of bacteria in urine is also associated with a higher risk of premature birth and low birth weight. Pregnant women who have bacteria in their urine are usually given antibiotics to prevent possible complications – even if they don’t have any symptoms.

What does a trace of protein in your urine mean?

Proteins are substances that are essential for your body to function properly. Protein is normally found in the blood. If there is a problem with your kidneys, protein can leak into your urine. While a small amount is normal, a large amount of protein in urine may indicate kidney disease.

How do I get rid of bacteria in my urine while pregnant?

Most UTIs during pregnancy are treated with a course of antibiotics. Your doctor will prescribe an antibiotic that is pregnancy-safe but still effective in killing off bacteria in your body.

Why do you get urine infections when pregnant?

When you’re pregnant, your pee has more sugar, protein, and hormones in it. These changes also put you at higher risk for a UTI. Because you’re pregnant, your growing uterus presses on your bladder. That makes it hard for you to let out all the urine in your bladder.

Can a urine infection test detect pregnancy?

Serious urinary tract infections (with high levels of WBC, RBC and nitrite) can occasionally cause a false positive pregnancy test result.