Signs of Bladder Infection During Pregnancy

Pregnant women suffer from more bladder infections than women who are not pregnant. This increased likelihood begins to manifest itself in the sixth week of pregnancy, as the woman's expanding uterus starts to put weight on the bladder and threatens to interfere with the flow of urine out of the bladder. The signs of a bladder infection in pregnant women, however, are the same as those for women who are not pregnant. Most women will experience at least one of these symptoms.

Painful Urination

Urination may be marked by a painful burning sensation. Some women may also find blood or mucus in their urine, or may expel urine that looks cloudy and smells unusually strong.

Frequent and Urgent Urination

Women may experience a frequent and sudden urge to urinate. While some women may find that they expel more urine than usual, others may only void a very small amount of urine.

Pain While Not Urinating

Many women experience pain or pressure in the area surrounding their bladder even when not urinating. Some women may also feel pain during sexual intercourse.

Increased Danger for Pregnant Women

As with all bladder infections, an untreated bladder infection can spread to the kidneys. While always serious, kidney infections are even more dangerous for pregnant women as they can lead to early labor or low birth weight.

Signs of a Kidney Infection

Nausea, vomiting, back pain and high fever are all symptoms of a kidney infection. If you believe you may have a kidney infection, or if you start experiencing contractions, contact your doctor immediately.

References

• American Pregnancy Association
• American Academy of Family Physicians