A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection affecting any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. These infections commonly occur when bacteria enter the urethra and spread upwards. Symptoms can include a burning sensation during urination, frequent urges to urinate, cloudy or strong-smelling urine, and lower abdominal discomfort. The potential impact of UTIs on getting pregnant often raises questions.
Understanding UTIs and Conception
An uncomplicated UTI does not directly cause infertility or prevent conception in the long term. Most UTIs affect the bladder and are treatable with antibiotics. These infections do not usually impact the reproductive organs directly, meaning they do not inherently affect the ability to conceive.
While UTIs do not block fertility, they can make conception efforts challenging in the short term. An active infection can cause discomfort and disrupt routines important for trying to conceive. Prompt attention to a UTI is advisable when trying to become pregnant.
How UTIs Can Affect Conception Efforts
Urinary tract infections can indirectly influence conception efforts, primarily through the discomfort they cause. The pain, burning, and frequent urge to urinate associated with a UTI can make sexual intercourse uncomfortable or undesirable. This discomfort naturally reduces the frequency of sexual activity, which can limit opportunities for conception, especially when trying to time intercourse around ovulation.
An untreated UTI can worsen and lead to more severe health issues. If a UTI ascends from the bladder to the kidneys, it can result in a kidney infection, known as pyelonephritis. While a typical UTI rarely affects reproductive organs directly, prolonged or recurrent infections could lead to broader systemic inflammation. This inflammation might indirectly influence overall health and well-being, which is important for successful conception.
Treating UTIs While Trying to Conceive
Prompt diagnosis and treatment of UTIs are important when trying to conceive. Antibiotics are the standard treatment, and many are considered safe for use when trying to get pregnant. Nitrofurantoin is often a recommended first-line antibiotic, as it effectively treats the infection while minimizing systemic exposure. Other antibiotics like amoxicillin or cephalexin may also be used.
It is important to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and a prescription, rather than attempting to self-treat. They can determine the appropriate antibiotic and dosage. Treating a UTI is usually a quick process, and once symptoms resolve, individuals can resume their conception efforts without long-term concerns.
UTIs During Pregnancy
UTIs are more common during pregnancy, with about 8% to 10% of pregnant women experiencing one. This increased risk is due to several physiological changes, including hormonal shifts and the growing uterus placing pressure on the bladder, which can hinder urine drainage. Additionally, urine becomes less acidic during pregnancy, creating a more favorable environment for bacterial growth.
Untreated UTIs during pregnancy can pose risks to both the pregnant person and the developing fetus. If the infection spreads to the kidneys, it can lead to pyelonephritis, which carries risks such as preterm labor and low birth weight. Asymptomatic bacteriuria, where bacteria are present in the urine without causing discomfort, can affect 2% to 10% of pregnancies. If left untreated, asymptomatic bacteriuria can progress to a kidney infection in up to 30% of cases. Routine screening for UTIs, often through urine cultures during prenatal visits, and prompt treatment are important to prevent complications.