Cystitis in pregnancy: symptoms and remedies (natural and otherwise) for bladder inflammation

Cystitis in pregnancy is a rather frequent problem, not to be underestimated. Cystitis is an infection of the bladder and urinary tract caused by certain bacteria, first of all Escherichia coli, which is very common in pregnancy. Urinalysis is essential in order to diagnose the problem. Let's find out together what are the causes of cystitis in pregnancy, what are the symptoms with which it presents, what to do to prevent and treat this disorder and with what natural remedies it is possible to alleviate it.

What are the causes of cystitis in pregnancy?

Inflammation of the bladder, also called cystitis, is very common in pregnancy, since - among the causes that cause it - there are precisely the hormonal changes of the pregnancy itself: the increase in progesterone circulating in the blood leads to relaxation of the smooth muscle of the ureter and urethra, leading to a physiological slowing of the urinary flow with an increase in the possibility of infections.

Cystitis in pregnancy also occurs due to the constant pressure exerted by the fetus on the uterus which continues to grow: it is no coincidence that it can occur especially in the last months of pregnancy, when the compression is greater and causes difficulty in emptying. the bladder altogether.

Furthermore, the same urine of the pregnant woman is richer in bacteria: it is easier for vaginal or intestinal germs (first of all the aforementioned Escherichia coli) to take root and colonize the urinary tract. This proliferation of bacteria can also occur due to poor intimate hygiene, or it can be favored by sexual intercourse. Finally, even constipation that characterizes pregnancy can more easily lead to an increase in intestinal bacteria such as Escherichia coli.

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What are the symptoms of cystitis in pregnancy?

The symptoms of cystitis in pregnancy are different: the first is undoubtedly the burning sensation while urinating, especially in the final part of urination. To this symptom is added that of the frequent urge to urinate, which is associated with a low amount of urine emitted.

Symptoms of the presence of a "urinary tract infection" are the difficulty itself in passing urine, which often comes out only drop by drop, as well as the feeling of not having completely emptied the bladder after finishing. find blood in the urine, but this is a less frequent symptom.

Cystitis in pregnancy, however, can also have more nuanced symptoms, since frequent urination is already among the symptoms of pregnancy itself, especially in the last months. There could therefore be the risk of not noticing it, if not through the urinalysis.

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How is cystitis treated in pregnancy?

If you feel the symptoms of a possible cystitis in pregnancy, you should not hesitate to contact your doctor. With a "urinalysis and a" urine culture it is possible to obtain a correct diagnosis and begin the most adequate therapy, which generally consists of a few courses of antibiotic, without side effects on the pregnant woman or the fetus.

Symptoms of cystitis in pregnancy usually disappear within a few days of starting therapy, but you must be careful to follow your doctor's prescription and finish the entire antibiotic course. Since relapses are quite frequent, it is good to keep the urinary system under control with one urinulture per month until the end of pregnancy.

What are the natural remedies?

Homeopathy and phytotherapy can be valid allies in countering cystitis, together - obviously - with the therapy prescribed by your doctor, which cannot be replaced. Among the most effective natural remedies (as far as "homeopathy is concerned) c" is Cantharis, which relieves burning during urination. Equally useful can be Berberis, especially if the pain is felt in the kidney area. Finally, Thuia has a soothing action for the mucous area, if you feel burning from inflammation.

As for herbal medicine, however, the most popular natural remedy is cranberry, which is also effective in preventing cystitis, because it prevents bacteria from adhering to the bladder wall. The bearberry also has an effective antibacterial action.

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How to prevent cystitis in pregnancy?

To prevent cystitis in pregnancy, there are some very useful and effective measures. First of all, it is very important to hydrate and drink as much as possible to promote diuresis and therefore avoid that the concentration of bacteria in the urine is too high.

Equally important is to take care of your intimate hygiene as much as possible, avoiding aggressive soaps. After going to the bathroom, always remember to clean yourself first in front and then behind, to prevent stool residues and intestinal bacteria from being transported to the urinary tract. Speaking of intimate hygiene, remember to change your underwear and underwear regularly. always choose the one in natural fibers and not in synthetic materials.

Be careful not to hold your urine for long to prevent bacteria from stagnating in the bladder and causing infections. Always empty your bladder after having sex. It also tries to regularize bowel movements: by counteracting constipation with a diet rich in fiber and the right movement, you will avoid the transmigration of intestinal bacteria into the urinary tract. Finally, try to limit the use of spicy foods, coffee, chocolate and spices, because they can easily generate intestinal infections.

Sexuality and nutrition are two fundamental and connected realities, which influence each other in every phase of female life.
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For more information on cystitis in pregnancy, you can consult the Humanitas website.