How does a pregnant woman get a UTI?

 How does a pregnant woman get a UTI?

Bacteria are the most common cause of urinary tract infections. Although there are actually bacteria in our skin, buttocks and stools, there are usually not many bacteria in our urine and urinary tract. When bacteria enter the urinary tract, they can multiply there and cause pain and inflammation in our urinary tract.

Anyone can have a UTI but it is often seen in women especially pregnant women. Changes in the hormones of the pregnant woman cause a change in the urinary tract which leads to a high probability of having a UTI. Due to the high pressure from the growing uterus, urine cannot pass through and it is not all released. When urine becomes stagnant or is not excreted, it can cause a UTI.

Here are some ways bacteria can enter the urinary tract:

1. The urinary tract is blocked by pressure coming from the growing uterus of the pregnant woman

2. Sexual intercourse

3. Catheters or tubes that are inserted into the bladder to release urine

4. Dirt that sticks to a woman's vagina after defecation

Some of the symptoms of a UTI are constant urination, difficulty urinating, pain in the lower back and lower abdomen, feeling hot and stuffy and urinating and blistering urine and smelly odor. If you experience this, visit your obstetrician for treatment