UTIs or Urinary Tract Infections are among the most common women’s health issues around the world and can be quite painful when not treated properly. A UTI can pose a great danger to a pregnant woman and her fetus.
Symptoms
The symptoms of a urinary tract infection may vary according to the extent of how far the germs have traveled in the patient’s system. The germs may cause kidney infections as well as:
- Pain in your side of the kidney
- High fever
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Pain while urinating
- Blood in the urine
- Diarrhea
- Feeling of having to urinate constantly
Although urine tests are part of the checkups during pregnancy, if you experience any of the above symptoms, then you can schedule a urine test at your next doctor’s appointment and discuss the results with your gynecologist.
Tips to manage a UTI during Pregnancy
Antibiotics
Your doctor will prescribe antibiotics suitable for pregnancy to battle the UTI. You can take your antibiotics from discount pharmacy coupons and get them delivered to your home as well. Take the antibiotics as prescribed and do not skip a single dose. UTIs can only be treated when the bacteria in your system is completely washed off or killed. This can only be done with antibiotics.
Vitamins
It is of utmost importance that you take your multivitamins during pregnancy. Vitamins are also helpful in fighting off UTI as your immune system grows stronger. Vitamins such as Vitamin B12, C, D, and E are very important to ingest during pregnancy as well as calcium, potassium, and most importantly folic acid.
Home Remedies
Try the following home remedies along with medications to quickly treat a UTI.
- Drink plenty of water. Water dilutes the urine and flushes out the toxins from your system. Try to stay hydrated as much as you can.
- Drink fresh juices. Eating fresh fruits or drinking their juices is extremely helpful in giving your body the required nutrition. Try to drink citrus fruit juices, especially cranberry juice which is very helpful in cleaning out the urinary tract.
- Take probiotics. There are probiotic supplements available in the market but you can also make yogurt in your diet which is a rich source of probiotics.
- Avoid harsh chemical soaps and vaginal wash. Refrain from using harsh chemical soaps or body wash around the vaginal area. Clean your vaginal area every time you urinate. Look for water-soluble wash products or simply just use normal tap water to wash the area clean.
- Use odorless, chemical-free maternity products. It is very dangerous to use sanitary napkins or underwear which has materials ridden with chemicals. Opt for cotton underwear and chemical-free maternity products.
Conclusion
UTIS are common and there is no need to be worried if you contract one. Get your routine check-ups and discuss your symptoms with your doctor at every appointment.