The relationship between pregnancy and urinary tract infections The hormonal changes in pregnancy can make the urinary tract system more vulnerable. Also, a larger uterus can compress the bladder and ureter, causing urine to be trapped in the kidneys or bladder, thus increasing the chances of bacterial growth. The change in vaginal pH makes pregnant women especially vulnerable to vaginitis, a condition that also increases the chance of urinary tract infections. Pregnant women with conditions such as diabetes, sickle-cell anemia, urinary tract abnormalities or stones are also at high risk for urinary tract infections. Seriousness of urinary tract infection during pregnancy Urinary tract infection during pregnancy not only affects the mother’s health, such as causing serious cases of pre-eclampsia, but also has a negative impact on the fetus. If it worsens to acute pyelonephritis, the chances of miscarriage or premature delivery are also increased. According to statistics, about 3-9% of pregnant women have asymptomatic bacteriuria, and 13.5%-65% of them will develop into acute pyelonephritis. Once asymptomatic bacteriuria is treated, the chances of it becoming acute pyelonephritis are greatly reduced. The best urinary tract health tips for pregnant women Keep hydrated, don’t wait until you are thirsty to drink, and get into the habit of going to the bathroom when you feel the urge to urinate. Drink about 1,500cc-2,000cc of water a day, or for reference, achieve a urine volume of 1,500cc a day. Paying more attention to personal hygiene habits is also the most effective way of urinary tract health care. According to a recent research report, cranberry fruit contains A-type primary anthocyanins, whose chemical structure can prevent E. coli from adhering to the mucosal epithelium of the urinary tract. 250cc-300cc of cranberry juice per day can effectively reduce urinary tract infections. In addition, drinking more yogurt can help maintain the ecology of bacteria and normal pH value in the body, which is also helpful for preventing urinary tract infections. Acute pyelonephritis usually infects the kidneys through the bladder. The causes of pyelonephritis include vesicoureteral reflux, ureteral obstruction, combination, and diabetes. In addition to the common symptoms of cystitis, acute pyelonephritis may include chills, high fever, general weakness, back pain, nausea and vomiting, and in a few cases, septic shock, which can be life-threatening. A few patients may even experience septic shock, which can be life-threatening. Usually, patients need to be hospitalized.