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Cystitis is an infectious disease of the lower urinary tract characterized by inflammation, impaired urinary organ function, and changes in urine sediment.
In early pregnancy, cystitis can occur in acute or chronic forms. Due to functional and hormonal changes in a pregnant woman’s body, this condition is quite common. Urine may become cloudy, develop a strong odor, and sometimes contain traces of blood. For diagnosis and optimal treatment, a medical examination is necessary. Treatment is prescribed only by a doctor and typically includes antibacterial and anti-inflammatory therapy, as well as medications to improve blood circulation in the bladder wall.
Causes of Cystitis in Early Pregnancy
Cystitis may result from a flare-up of a chronic condition or may first appear during pregnancy. The main causes are:
- Increased progesterone levels, which reduce the muscle tone of the lower urinary tract, preventing complete emptying of the bladder.
- Lowered immunity, which prevents the rejection of the embryo but can also promote infections.
Additional factors include vitamin deficiencies, hypothermia, sleep deprivation, stress, excessive consumption of fried and spicy foods, poor hygiene, and wearing tight underwear.
What Are the Symptoms of Cystitis During Pregnancy?
Cystitis during pregnancy is associated with the following symptoms:
- Pain in the suprapubic area
- Persistent feeling of a full bladder
- Frequent and painful urination accompanied by burning sensations
How Is Cystitis Diagnosed During Pregnancy?
For effective and safe treatment, the following tests are necessary:
- General urine analysis (leukocytes, erythrocytes, protein, bacteria)
- Nechiporenko and Zimnitsky tests
- Bacteriological urine culture to determine antibiotic sensitivity
- Ultrasound of the urinary system to assess the condition of the bladder and kidneys
How Is Cystitis Treated During Pregnancy?
Principles of treatment for cystitis in pregnant women:
- Use medications proven to be safe for both mother and baby.
- Consider the stage of pregnancy.
- Employ a comprehensive approach, including drug therapy, proper nutrition, and a hydration regimen.
- Regularly monitor treatment outcomes through urine tests.
Treatment Recommendations
- Warm fluids: cranberry or lingonberry juice, rosehip decoction
- Medications:
- Canephron: a plant-based medication containing rosemary, lovage, and centaury, reducing inflammation and spasms. Urolesan: relieves pain and improves urine flow (use only with a doctor’s approval)
- Antispasmodics: No-shpa (drotaverine): safe in moderate doses. Papaverine (suppositories): relieves bladder spasms
- Antibiotics: prescribed only after bacteriological urine tests to determine sensitivity, under a doctor’s supervision
- Probiotics: after antibiotics, maintain gut microbiota with:
- Lactobacilli (Symbiter-2, Ecobiol, Enterogermina, Bifidumbacterin)
Always consult a doctor before taking any medication!
Dietary Recommendations for Cystitis
Nutrition plays a vital role in the treatment and prevention of cystitis. Follow these tips:
Hydration:
- Drink 2–2.5 liters of fluid daily.
- Beneficial drinks: cranberry and lingonberry juice, herbal teas, non-carbonated mineral water.
Foods to Include:
- Diuretic vegetables: cucumbers, zucchini, pumpkin, carrots
- Fruits: watermelon, melon, apples, pears
- Dairy products: plain yogurt, kefir
- Grains: oatmeal, buckwheat, rice
What to Avoid:
- Spicy, salty, smoked, and pickled foods
- Fried foods and fast food
- Coffee, strong tea, sugary sodas
Additional Tips:
- Use herbs instead of salt for flavor.
- Limit sugar, which promotes bacterial growth.
What Not to Do with Cystitis During Pregnancy ?
- Take antibiotics without a doctor’s prescription.
- Use unknown herbs during pregnancy.
- Ignore symptoms or self-medicate.
Prevention of Cystitis
- Undergo a full medical examination before pregnancy and treat chronic illnesses.
- Follow hygiene rules and avoid synthetic underwear.
- Dress appropriately to avoid hypothermia.
- Use the restroom every 3 hours, even without the urge.
- Regularly consume herbal teas and juices to maintain urinary health.
- Practice maximum hygiene during sexual activity and use safe contraception.
- Avoid holding urine for long periods to prevent bacterial growth.
- Maintain a healthy gut microbiome by including probiotics in your diet.
- During sedentary work, take regular breaks to improve pelvic blood circulation.
Treatment of cystitis during pregnancy requires special caution and control. If symptoms occur, consult a doctor immediately for an optimal treatment plan tailored to your condition and stage of pregnancy. Self-medication is not advisable, as your baby’s health is the top priority!
The specialists at our clinic are ready to support you at every stage of your pregnancy, ensuring comfort and safety for you and your baby!
