Leukocytes in Urine During Pregnancy: Causes and What to Do

During pregnancy, there are many changes that your body undergoes, and part of your antenatal care includes regular tests to ensure both you and your baby are healthy. One common test is a urine test, which can provide valuable information about your health. Among the results, you might come across the term “leukocytes,” which are white blood cells that play a vital role in fighting infections. While the presence of leukocytes in your urine can sometimes be a sign of infection, it can also occur for other reasons, including natural changes in your body during pregnancy. In this article, we will explore what leukocytes in urine during pregnancy means, why it might occur, and what steps you can take to ensure optimal antenatal health. What Are Leukocytes and Why Are They Present in Urine? Leukocytes are white blood cells that are a crucial part of the immune system. Their primary function is to defend the body against infections and foreign invaders, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. When the body detects an infection or inflammation, it sends more white blood cells to the affected area to fight off the pathogens. Urine is usually sterile when it leaves the body, meaning it does not contain bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms under normal circumstances. However, if there is an infection in the urinary tract or another part of the body, leukocytes may appear in the urine as a response to the infection. How Are Leukocytes Detected in Urine During Pregnancy? During your routine antenatal checkups, you may be asked to provide a urine sample. This sample is tested for a variety of things, including the presence of leukocytes, protein, glucose, and bacteria. The test that detects leukocytes in urine is often a simple dipstick test, where a chemically-treated strip is placed in the urine to detect different substances. If the dipstick test shows a high number of leukocytes, it might suggest that there is an infection in the urinary tract or elsewhere in the body. However, the presence of leukocytes alone does not necessarily confirm an infection. Further tests, such as a urine culture, may be required to identify the cause and determine the appropriate treatment. Why Do Leukocytes Appear in Urine During Pregnancy? There are several reasons why leukocytes may appear in your urine during pregnancy, ranging from benign causes to more serious conditions. Here, we’ll explore some of the most common reasons for this:

1. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

Urinary tract infections are one of the most common causes of leukocytes in urine during pregnancy. UTIs can occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract and cause an infection in the kidneys, bladder, or urethra. Symptoms of a UTI may include:

• Painful or burning sensation during urination
• Frequent urges to urinate
• Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
• Pain in the lower abdomen or back During pregnancy, hormonal changes and the pressure from the growing uterus can make you more susceptible to UTIs. If left untreated, UTIs can lead to complications, such as kidney infections, which can pose risks for both you and your baby. That’s why it’s important to get any signs of a UTI checked by your healthcare provider.

2. Asymptomatic Bacteriuria

Asymptomatic bacteriuria refers to the presence of bacteria in the urine without any symptoms of infection. While this condition doesn’t cause discomfort, it can still lead to complications if left untreated, such as developing into a full-blown UTI or increasing the risk of preterm labour. Routine antenatal urine testing often detects asymptomatic bacteriuria. If bacteria are found in your urine, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to clear the infection and prevent complications. This is why regular antenatal checkups, including urine testing, are so important.

3. Increased Blood Flow to the Kidneys

During pregnancy, the body undergoes many changes to accommodate the growing baby, including increased blood flow to various organs. This can affect the kidneys, causing them to filter more fluid than usual. As a result, small amounts of leukocytes may appear in your urine as a response to this increased blood flow. This is often harmless and doesn’t indicate an infection.

4. Changes in the Urinary System Due to Pregnancy

The growing uterus can put pressure on the urinary tract, which can lead to slower urination or incomplete emptying of the bladder. This can result in a higher likelihood of bacteria remaining in the urinary system, potentially leading to infections. The hormonal changes in pregnancy can also affect the bladder’s function, making it more prone to irritation and infections.

5. Vaginal Infections or Inflammation

Sometimes, leukocytes may appear in your urine as a result of vaginal infections or inflammation, such as yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis. These infections may cause an increase in white blood cells, which can then be detected in your urine. While these infections may not directly involve the urinary tract, they can still lead to the presence of leukocytes in your urine. What to Do if You Have Leukocytes in Your Urine During Pregnancy If your antenatal test shows leukocytes in your urine, it’s important to follow up with your healthcare provider to determine the cause. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Repeat Testing: Your healthcare provider may recommend repeating the urine test to confirm the results. If the presence of leukocytes persists, they may proceed with additional testing to rule out or confirm an infection.
2. Urine Culture: A urine culture is a more detailed test that can help identify the specific bacteria causing an infection, if present. This allows your healthcare provider to prescribe the most appropriate antibiotic to treat the infection.
3. Symptoms Monitoring: Your doctor may ask you to monitor any symptoms you might be experiencing, such as burning sensations during urination, pain, or fever. Any of these could indicate an infection that requires medical attention.
4. Antibiotics: If an infection is confirmed, your healthcare provider will prescribe antibiotics that are safe to use during pregnancy. It’s essential to complete the full course of antibiotics, even if you start feeling better, to ensure that the infection is fully treated and doesn’t lead to complications.
5. Hydration and Hygiene: In some cases, your healthcare provider may recommend that you increase your water intake to help flush bacteria from your system. Practising good personal hygiene, such as wiping from front to back after using the toilet, can also help prevent urinary tract infections. How to Prevent Leukocytes in Urine During Pregnancy While it’s not always possible to prevent leukocytes from appearing in urine, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing urinary infections or other causes:

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help flush out any bacteria from the urinary tract.
• Practice Good Hygiene: Ensure you maintain proper hygiene, especially during pregnancy when your body may be more sensitive.
• Urinate When Needed: Avoid holding in urine for long periods, as this can allow bacteria to multiply in the bladder.
• Avoid Scented Products: Avoid using perfumed soaps, douches, or feminine hygiene sprays, as these can irritate the urinary tract and increase your risk of infection.
• Wear Cotton Underwear: Opt for loose-fitting cotton underwear, which helps keep the area dry and reduces the risk of bacterial growth. Leukocytes in urine during pregnancy can be a sign of a variety of things, from harmless changes in the body to urinary tract infections that require treatment. Regular antenatal care, including urine testing, is essential to detect and manage any potential issues early on. If you notice any signs of infection or discomfort, such as burning during urination or lower abdominal pain, it’s crucial to seek medical advice promptly. By staying informed and proactive about your antenatal health, you can help ensure that you and your baby stay healthy throughout pregnancy.