Urological issues with pregnant patients are expected in Cletus Georges, MD’s practice. Pregnant women have a susceptibility to urological problems during this delicate time. The female urinary tract undergoes numerous physiological changes that affect their excretory system when pregnant.
Pregnant women need to be aware of what they may be at risk for during pregnancy to take steps to prevent them as much as possible or know what to look out for.
Urinary tract infection
This is the most common issue among pregnant women. This is due to bacteria and hormone changes in a woman during pregnancy. The hormones change the balance in your urinary tract, creating a breeding ground for infections. Cletus Georges MD explains that it’s crucial to get it checked and treated if you get a UTI as it may lead to preterm labor.
Urinary incontinence
Women who have had a baby before or are currently pregnant are at higher risk for incontinence because the pelvic floor muscles weaken during pregnancy. As the baby grows, the pelvic muscles are more strained than ever, and you’ll have less control over passing urine. It’s common to leak urine during pregnancy and when giving birth.
Complications following infections
If your UTI does not get treated immediately while you’re pregnant, it could lead to more severe issues. Cletus Georges MD explains that urinary tract infections can lead to kidney infections, the inability to urinate (also known as retention), or blockages in the urethra. In the more extreme cases, babies can get delivered prematurely, underweight, or even put you at risk for a miscarriage.
It’s crucial to maintain consultations with a urologist and gynecologist to ensure your urinary system’s good health during the changes that your body undergoes in pregnancy. It helps ensure that you remain healthy and that your baby is delivered safely and with no complications.