UTI IN PREGNANCY Flashcards
Is an infection in any part of the urinary system.
Urinary Tract Infection
Infection of the kidneys
Pyelonephritis
Infection of the ureters
Ureteritis
Infection of the bladder
Cystitis
Infection of the urethra
Urethritis
Reasons why females & pregnant women are more at risk for developing UTI
1) Anatomical Differences (Female)
2) Hormonal Changes (Pregnancy)
3) Increased Frequency of Urinary Tract Manipulation (Females and Pregnant Women)
4) Immune System Changes (Pregnancy)
5) Increased blood glucose levels
What are the anatomical differences of the female anatomy that makes them more prone to UTI
1) Shorter Urethra
2) Proximity to the Anus
3) Wider urethra
The female urethra is located closer to the anus, making it easier…
For fecal bacteria to reach the urethra + more difficult to maintain hygiene with a gravid/pregnant uterus
Because females have shorter urethra they are more prone to UTIs. Why so?
Shorter urethra means short distance for the bacteria to travel up into the urinary tract.
Hormonal Changes during Pregnancy that makes them have a higher risk of UTI
1) Increased Progesterone
2) Increased Uterine Pressure
How does increased progesterone become a factor causing UTI?
Higher levels of progesterone relax the smooth muscles of the urinary tract, including the bladder, leading to urinary stasis, which creates an environment for bacterial growth
What does urinary statis mean?
Retention of urine in the bladder or inability of the bladder to completely empty urine
How does increased uterine pressure become a factor causing UTI
As uterus expand, it can exert pressure on the bladder, hindering complete emptying. Allowing urine to remain in the bladder, increasing the risk of infection.
Urinary Tract Manipulations that can cause UTI
1) Sexual Activity
2) Use of catheters
How does changes in the immune system during pregnancy causes pregnant women more vulnerable to infections?
Mother’s immune system is slightly suppressed to allow for the fetal cells to grow & develop.
How do high glucose levels in the urine become a factor causing UTI?
Provide food source for bacteria, increasing the likelihood of infection.
Most common microorganism causing UTI
Escherichia Coli
Projections that enable the bacteria to stick & climb up the urinary tract
Pili
Where can GBS be found in an healthy individual as part of the normal flora?
- Intestines
- Rectum
- Vaginal area
GBS in individuals with weakened immune system can cause infections like:
1) UTIs
2) Skin & soft tissue infections
3) Sepsis
4) Pneumonia
Urine is refluxing or backing-up in the ureters instead of emptying into the urethra
VesicoUreteral Reflex
What causes vesicoureteral reflex?
Obstruction or nerve damage
Signs & Symptoms of Lower UTIs (Bladder & Urethra)
- Frequent Urge to Urinate
- Pain or Burning Sensation during urination (Dysuria)
- Cloudy or Foul-Smelling Urine
- Blood in Urine (Hematuria)
- Pelvic or lower abdominal pain
- Incontinence
- Pressure or Fullness in the Lower Abdomen
Signs & Symptoms of Upper UTIs
- High Fever
- Flank Pain
- Nausea & Vomiting
- General Malaise or Fatigue
- Painful urination
