Disclaimer

This blog post is not intended as professional medical advice and serves for general information purposes. It cannot replace a healthcare professional’s opinion, and your family physician, nurse practitioner, or specialist care provider always remains the most reliable source of information and advice. We recommend that everyone consult their primary care provider in case they are facing any pregnancy-related or health issues and concerns.

Introduction

In the previous post we discussed how different infections could affect the pregnancy’s outcome, and reviewed the common infectious screening tests as well as symptoms which may indicate respiratory illness.

We at ExpectAid believe that knowledge can help you feel confident and empowered throughout pregnancy. That is why we will review other common infections, such as urinary, gastro-intestinal, and gynecologic infections, and symptoms to look out for in this post.

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

UTIs are more common in pregnancy because anatomical changes put extra pressure on the urinary system, which may disrupt normal flow. Symptoms include:

• Some UTIs during pregnancy have no symptoms
• Burning or pain when urinating
• Needing to urinate more often
• Urine that is cloudy, bloody, or has a strong smell
• Pain or pressure in the lower belly

More severe symptoms, which could indicate a kidney infection and require medical attention, include:

• Fever 
• Flank/back pain

In general, it is recommended to drink plenty of water and not to hold urine in for prolonged amounts of time to maintain a healthy urinary habit, unless advised otherwise by your healthcare professional.

Gastroenteritis (“Stomach Flu”)

Viral gastroenteritis spreads easily and can cause dehydration with vomiting or diarrhea, which is more concerning during pregnancy. Symptoms include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Stomach cramps
• Low-grade fever
• Dry mouth or decreased urination (signs of dehydration)

More severe symptoms, which may require medical attention, include:

• Cannot keep fluids down for more than 12–24 hours
• Bloody stool
• Severe abdominal pain
• Fever that doesn’t improve
• Notice signs of dehydration, including
  • Not urinating for more than 12-24 hours
  • Dry skin
  • Excessive thirst

Gynecological Infections

Gynecological infections involve the vagina, cervix, or reproductive tract, which include the Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). If untreated, some of these may cause complications during pregnancy. 

Untreated infections can lead to pregnancy or newborn complications, so routine screening and treatment are essential. Symptoms to watch out for include:

Yeast Infections (Candidiasis)

A common infection in pregnancy, increased risk due to hormonal changes and altered discharge.

Symptoms

• Itching 
• Irritation
• White, Cottage cheese–like discharge
• Redness 
• Discomfort during urination or intercourse

Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)

An imbalance and overgrowth of vaginal bacteria.

Symptoms

• Thin grey or white discharge
• “Fishy” odour, especially after sex
• Mild irritation

BV can sometimes be linked with preterm labour, so treatment is recommended if diagnosed.

Trichomoniasis

A sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a parasite.

Symptoms

• Frothy yellow-green discharge
• Vaginal irritation
• Strong odour
• Sometimes no symptoms

Chlamydia and Gonorrhea

Two common STIs, which often occur simultaneously.

Symptoms

• No symptoms in many people
• Frothy yellow-green discharge
• Pelvic discomfort with sexual activity

Syphilis

A common STI with different phases of disease, which include local or systemic symptoms. 

Symptoms

• Often silent
• May cause sores in early stages
• Rashes are common in later stages
• Fever
• Flu-like symptoms
• Can also involve the brain in late stages

Genital Herpes (HSV)

Herpes is a viral infection with different subtypes and presentations. The virus usually resides in the nervous system and can flare during pregnancy or other stressful situations.

Symptoms

• Painful blisters or sores on the mouth, lips, or genital area
• Tingling or burning before an outbreak

Planning for delivery may change, including treatment or cesarean section, if active genital lesions are present close to delivery.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

HPV is a viral infection with many different subtypes. A few of these increase the risk of cervical cancer, while most others generate genital warts. It is not routinely tested for in prenatal screening unless required before pregnancy.

Genital warts don’t usually affect pregnancy outcomes and are often treated only if symptoms develop.

Symptoms

• Many people are asymptomatic (do not experience specific symptoms)
• Genital warts (usually in non-cancerous subtypes)
• Bleeding after sexual activity
• Pain with sexual activity

Conclusion

While most infections are mild and treatable during pregnancy, your professional healthcare providers follow structured guidelines to help identify problems early, including screening tests on patients without any symptoms. 

In this post we have reviewed the common symptoms which may indicate a urinary, stomach, or genital infection, which necessitate a healthcare professional visit.

Good hygiene and timely communication of your symptoms to your healthcare provider improves the health of both you and your baby. 

If you ever feel unsure about a fever, a new symptom, or a test result, never hesitate to reach out to your family doctor, OB-GYN, or midwife for proper advice.

We would love to hear your thoughts about this content. Have you ever had any experience with infections during pregnancy? Please write to us in the comment section or on social media and share any points that you feel like need to be discussed in our future content.