Observing ammonia smell in urine during pregnancy is not only disgusting but also may mean that there is some problem in the body. Let us take a look at what does ammonia smell in urine mean…
Concentrated urine normally has a foul odor, which may resemble the smell of ammonia. Under normal circumstances, urine is usually colorless and odorless. However, at times, it may be tinged pale yellow and may emanate a mild smell. This may be temporary and tends to go away after a period of time. Pregnant women may also experience a mild smell from their urine, mainly due to the food they take or also because of discharge. The smell can get stronger as the term progresses. In case, you notice a very strong ammonia smell in urine and burning sensation, then you may need medical intervention for the exact diagnosis of the cause.
Causes of Ammonia Smell in Urine
Foul-smelling urine can be due to a number of reasons, some of which may need medical attention. Any changes in the body, especially when pregnant should be reported to a gynecologist, to avoid any unwanted complications which may harm the mother and child. Here are some of the responsible factors for ammonia smelling urine in women who are pregnant.
- Non diluted urine has a strong smell similar to that of ammonia. This is because the urine becomes concentrated due to lack of water in the body. A pregnant woman’s body requires more water to suffice the needs of both her and that of the fetus. Inadequate intake of water leads to dehydration, which in turn makes the urine more smelly and amber colored.
- Changes in the diet, which is most common in pregnancy, is also one of the reasons why the urine may smell like ammonia. Foods like onions, asparagus, etc. can cause the urine’s odor to be more offensive. Similarly, too much caffeine and carbonated drinks can also alter the smell of the urine.
- Certain drugs and medications can also give rise to ammonia smell (even metallic) during pregnancy. Apart from food, expectant mothers are advised to take nutritional supplements to fulfill the nutrient needs of both the mother and child. Supplements like calcium, iron, vitamins B complex, C etc., can be one of the causes of smelly urine. This is usually not a matter of grave concern and is temporary in nature.
- Pregnant women are more susceptible to urinary tract infections (UTI), when compared to other women. Caused due to bacterial infection, the foul smell released by the urine is due to the toxins secreted by the pathogens. In case, you also experience symptoms like pain and burning sensation while urinating, frequent urination, etc., then you may be a victim of viral or bacterial infestation.
- Gestational diabetes, which is a form of diabetes, is also one of the responsible factors for smelly urine. Mainly caused due to the increase in blood glucose levels, the urine may appear sweet smelling. This disorder is brought back to normal after childbirth.
Neutralizing the Odor
Though bothersome in nature, it is essential to get to the root cause of what is causing ammonia smell in urine during pregnancy. Since it may mean some underlying health disorder, it is essential to go for a urinalysis. Failure to treat this problem can lead to some unwanted complications, which may affect the health of the mother and child. Hence it is essential to undergo timely treatment.
One of the best ways of getting rid of this annoying odor is to keep the body hydrated by drinking plenty of water and fluids. The increased amount of fluids will make the urine less concentrated and neutralize the smell. The gynecologist may also prescribe certain medications to reduce the severity of urinary tract infection and gestational diabetes, which can control the urine’s odor.
This was all about ammonia smell in urine noticed during pregnancy, along with the remedial measures to combat this distressing problem. Consulting a gynecologist, regarding this problem or for that matter any other disorder in the body, experienced during pregnancy is always advisable. Take care!
