Prevent urine infection during pregnancy

Urine infection is a common ailment during pregnancy. Overproduction of a number of hormones during this period increases the chance of infection. Also, the growing uterus presses on the bladder, allowing little room for urine and this causes infection. Immunity is weaker during pregnancy, increasing the risks of infection. There are more risks in case of pregnancy diabetes too.

Frequency of urination normally increases during pregnancy. As the uterus constantly presses against the bladder during this period, frequent urination is not always a sign an infection. If the frequency is accompanied by pelvic discomfort and burning while urinating, antibiotics should be taken after screening. Antibiotics should never be taken before urine culture. A number of antibiotics from the groups of amoxillin, penicllin, or erythromycin are not risk free either. Do not take any medicine without the physician's advice.

How to prevent urine infection
: Drink at least 8 glasses of water a day even if frequent urination seems annoying
: Although you may have to get out of bed frequently, do not suppress urine
: Maintain cleanliness. Do not wear tight or damp undergarments. Change regularly. Wear cotton underwear.
: Avoid using soap and other toiletries with strong chemicals.
: Shower rather than bathe in a bath tub.
: Each time after bowel movement wipe from front to back while cleaning and never the other way around.
: Contact your physician if you feel a burning sensation while urinating or a discomfort in the pelvic area.

*Moushumi Mariam Sultana is a medicine specialist at Ibrahim General Hospital in Mirpur, Dhaka