How to Prevent UTI During Pregnancy

Your uterus pushes and can sometimes block your urinary tract as your baby grows inside you during pregnancy, causing pain and frequent urination. Women in their first trimester of pregnancy are more likely to experience a urinary tract infection or UTI. There are ways to decrease your chances of getting a UTI during pregnancy and possibly prevent getting one altogether. However, recognize that, even with preventative measures, UTIs reoccur in pregnancy at a rate of 5 percent.

Steps

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   Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids daily to prevent a UTI when pregnant. Water can help flush bacteria and the start of an infection from your system.
   • Drink at least 6 glasses of water every day and unsweetened cranberry juice once per day. Cranberry juice can reduce bacteria in the urinary tract and reduce the formation of new bacteria. Avoid other fruit juices, alcohol and caffeinated beverages.
   • Check the color of your urine to see if you're getting enough fluids. Dark urine indicates that you may be dehydrated, which can lead to a UTI when pregnant.
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   Take vitamins to help fight an infection and prevent a UTI from starting. The right blend of vitamins can also boost your immune system, which can help your body fight off an infection.
   • Ask your doctor which vitamins are safe to use during pregnancy and won't interact negatively with any medication you are taking. In general, your daily regimen should consist of 250-to-500 mg of vitamin C, 25,000-to-50,000 IU of beta-carotene and 30-to-50 mg of zinc.
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   Avoid overly processed or refined foods or foods that contain a lot of sugar.Sugar can inhibit white blood cells in the body from fighting off bacteria.
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   Go to the bathroom as soon as you feel the urge and completely empty your bladder during each trip.
   • Don't hold your urine. This lets bacteria stay in the bladder for a longer period of time and gives the bacteria a greater chance of developing into an infection.
   • Blot dry with toilet paper and do not rub your genital area. Wipe from front to back every time.
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   Keep your genital area clean with water only. Soap, cream, douches, powders and sprays may only exacerbate the problem of a UTI during pregnancy.
   • Take a shower rather than a bath to prevent a UTI. If you must bathe, avoid taking more than 2 baths per day or bathing for more than half an hour at a time. Don't use bubble bath or bath beads, which can inflame the urethral opening. Make sure the tub is cleaned and rinsed well before taking a bath.
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   Switch to cotton underwear and pantyhose and change them daily.
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   Go to the bathroom before and after sexual intercourse. You may use a water-based lubricant during sex.
   • You should not have sex if you are being treated for a urinary tract infection.
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   Ask your doctor about vaccines. Although vaccines for UTI were in the development stages in 2011, they are expected to be available in the next couple of years. Be sure you get all the information about the vaccines, including the risks and benefits.