Pregnant women are 8-10 % more prone to contracting a urinary tract infection according to research! In a study published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology of India, untreated UTIs during pregnancy can increase the risk of low birth weight and preterm labor by 50%. This is why a urine culture might be advised in pregnancy. But one such concern that might pop up during routine prenatal checkups is the presence of pus cells or epithelial cells in your urine test results. For first-time mothers, seeing these terms in a medical report can be confusing and alarming. You might wonder, "Is this normal? Does it mean something is wrong with me or my baby?"
The good news is that these findings are not uncommon during pregnancy and don’t always indicate a serious issue. However, understanding why they appear and what they might mean can help you stay informed and take the necessary steps to ensure your health and your baby’s well-being.
Why Do Pus Cells and Epithelial Cells Appear in Urine During Pregnancy?
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Pus Cells:
Pus cells are white blood cells that appear in urine as a response to infections or inflammation in the urinary tract. During pregnancy, your body undergoes several changes that can make you more prone to urinary tract infections (UTIs). Increased blood flow, hormonal changes, and the growing uterus pressing on the bladder all contribute to this vulnerability. -
Epithelial Cells:
Epithelial cells are the cells that line your urinary tract and can shed naturally into your urine. A small number of epithelial cells is normal and may not indicate any issue. However, higher levels could suggest an infection or contamination during urine sample collection.
What Do the Numbers Mean?
Normal Range of Pus Cells: 0-5 pus cells per high-power field (HPF) in urine is considered normal. A count higher than this may indicate infection. Normal Range of Epithelial Cells: 1-5 epithelial cells per HPF is usually normal. Higher levels might suggest contamination or, less commonly, an infection or kidney issue.
Common Causes of Pus and Epithelial Cells in Urine During Pregnancy
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Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs):
UTIs are a leading cause of increased pus cells during pregnancy. Studies suggest that up to 10% of pregnant women experience UTIs, which can cause discomfort and, if left untreated, complications like kidney infections or preterm labor. -
Hormonal Changes:
Pregnancy hormones like progesterone relax the urinary tract muscles, slowing urine flow and increasing the risk of bacterial growth, which can elevate pus cell counts. -
Improper Sample Collection:
Sometimes, epithelial cells in urine are simply the result of contamination during sample collection. This can happen if vaginal discharge mixes with the urine sample. -
Kidney or Bladder Infections:
Severe infections in the kidneys or bladder can lead to a significant increase in both pus and epithelial cells. -
Gestational Hydronephrosis:
This condition, caused by the growing uterus compressing the ureters, can lead to stagnant urine and an increased risk of infections, contributing to higher pus cell counts.
Symptoms to Watch For
While mild increases in pus or epithelial cells may not cause noticeable symptoms, the following signs may indicate an underlying issue like a UTI or kidney infection:
- Burning sensation while urinating
- Frequent urge to urinate but passing small amounts
- Cloudy, foul-smelling urine
- Lower abdominal pain or discomfort
- Fever or chills (a sign of a more serious infection)
How Are Pus and Epithelial Cells Diagnosed?
Urine tests are a standard part of prenatal care and can reveal the presence of pus and epithelial cells.
- Urine Routine Test: Determines the levels of pus and epithelial cells.
- Urine Culture Test: Identifies the specific bacteria causing an infection, if present.
Your doctor may also recommend additional tests if the results suggest a more serious issue.
Treatment Options
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UTI Management:
If a UTI is confirmed, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics that are safe for pregnancy. Treating UTIs promptly is essential to prevent complications. -
Hydration:
Drinking plenty of water (8-10 glasses daily) helps flush out bacteria and keeps your urinary system healthy. -
Probiotics:
Including probiotics like curd (dahi) or buttermilk in your diet can support good bacteria and reduce the risk of infections. -
Hygiene Practices:
- Wipe front to back after using the restroom.
- Avoid holding urine for long periods.
- Wear breathable, cotton underwear to prevent bacterial growth.
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Reassessing Sample Collection:
If epithelial cells are due to contamination, ensuring a clean-catch urine sample can resolve the issue.
A study in the Indian Journal of Medical Research highlights that 10-20% of pregnant women with asymptomatic bacteriuria (bacteria in the urine without symptoms) show increased pus cells, reinforcing the importance of regular urine tests during pregnancy.
Home Remedies for Urinary Health During Pregnancy
- Coconut Water: Known for its diuretic properties, coconut water can help flush out bacteria.
- Barley Water: Boiling barley in water and drinking it throughout the day is a traditional remedy for maintaining urinary health.
- Cranberry Juice: Unsweetened cranberry juice may prevent bacteria from sticking to the urinary tract walls, reducing the risk of infection.
When to Consult a Doctor
Contact your healthcare provider if you experience:
- Persistent symptoms like pain, fever, or foul-smelling urine.
- A significant increase in pus or epithelial cells in your urine test.
- Recurrent infections despite treatment.
Share Your Concerns Moms:
Pus cells and epithelial cells in urine during pregnancy are common findings and often manageable with proper care and treatment. Staying informed and proactive about your health can help you navigate this phase confidently.
Have you ever had a urine test with unusual results during pregnancy? What steps did you take to manage it? Share your experiences in the comments below to support and empower other moms-to-be!