Foul-smelling urine in pregnant women could indicate a complication. This article provides some information about the same.
If one’s urine smells different or bad during pregnancy, then it may be an indicative of something amiss in the body. It is a normal fact that women develop a heightened sense of smell during this time of their life. This makes anything smell virtually potent; more than it actually is. An important fact to be kept in mind is that pregnancy does not really bring about any difference in the quality of the urine. However, if one senses that it is smelling stronger and different than usual, then this might indicate an infection; a bladder infection, for example. So, not only in the case of strong urine odor when pregnant but also on observing cloudy or dark urine, one needs to consult the doctor.
Factors
Pregnancy is the greatest change which could occur in the body of a female. It is also one of the most critical phases of her life and also that of the unborn inside her. The process of nurturing the growth of the new life inside, puts the body in a tremendous amount of pressure. This may not be noticed by those who take extra vitamins, minerals, and plenty of extra fluids, for her and her baby.
However, women who do otherwise, experience several problems; one of them being smelly urine when pregnant. Keeping the body from having enough amount of fluids, means running the risk of developing bladder or kidney diseases. So, as mentioned above, bad and strong-smelling urine during pregnancy may signify a urinary tract infection. If this symptom is accompanied by a burning sensation while urinating or an inability to pass urine despite the urge to do so, then the likelihood of the infection becomes higher.
Treatment
An unattended urinary tract infection has all the chances of turning into a kidney infection and this is something which one would not desire, and especially when pregnant. The effects caused by such an infection can be quite severe on the infant, resulting in an early/premature childbirth and low-birth weight. However, such serious repercussions may be avoided by treating an UTI as early as possible.
The doctor may prescribe some supplements of vitamin C, beta-carotene, zinc, and other medication which would be helpful in fighting the infection. In combination with what the doctor prescribes, one can take up a few simple self-care measures at home to counter the problem. These measures include:
- Always remember to keep the genital area clean and dry, especially after urinating. Pat dry the area from the front towards the back, with a clean cloth. Warm and moist area provides an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive.
- Avoid scented soaps
- Never ignore the need to urinate. Whenever one feels the urge, visit the washroom and empty the bladder. If the urine stays for a longer time in the bladder, then it heightens the risk of infection.
- Wear clean inner clothes everyday and it is preferable to go for loose-cotton clothing. It helps in keeping the area dry.
It is advisable to keep bathing water plain, without adding any bubble bath or any kind of oil. Also, one should avoid soaking themselves in the tub for more than 30 minutes twice a day. It is not always necessary that foul-smelling urine during pregnancy is a sure indicative of an infection. However, it is better to err on the side of caution.
Disclaimer: This HerHaleness article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.
