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Leukocytes in Urine during Pregnancy
Your developing baby is going to demand a lot from your body and to make sure that your baby's growth and development is taking in the right manner, you will have to visit the doctor for regular check-ups. Many tests will be performed during every visit, however, one of the tests that you will need to take at every check-up is a urinary test. This can help detect the level of leukocytes in the urine, making the doctor able to tell you if you have any infections that will need treatment.
What Are Leukocytes in Urine?
Leukocytes are white blood cells that work side by side with the immune system and defend the body from infections and diseases. They appear when there is damage to the kidneys and urinary system and when foreign materials enter the body.
When leukocytes damage or when they are killed while fighting off infections, they are expelled from the body through the urine, signifying a low level of leukocytes in the urine. The average level of leukocytes that should be present in the urine is between 2 to 5 WBCs/hpf. However, if the level of leukocytes rises and goes above 5 WBCs/hpf, it may be a sign of infection or disease and must be investigated.
What Causes Leukocytes in Urine During Pregnancy?
There are many reasons why the number of white blood cells increases in pregnant women, the most common being when there is some sort of infection in the vagina, which if left untreated can develop into something far more serious. Some of the main causes of Leukocytes in urine during pregnancy are discussed below:
1. Urinary Tract Infection
Leukocytes are usually present in the urine if you are suffering from UTI. When a woman is pregnant, there is an increase in the bladder volume, but the tone will be reduced due to the weight of the baby pushing down on it. It is very difficult in this situation to completely empty the bladder, and so the bacteria may never fully leave the system. Instead, it multiplies.
2. Asymptomatic Bacteriuria
When there are bacteria in the uterus, it is called asymptomatic bacteriuria. About 30% of pregnant women may have a bacterial infection in the urinary tract but show no symptoms. These can cause leukocytes to manifest in the urine. If left unchecked, this causes pyelonephritis in pregnant women, and it is because of this it is important that doctors perform a routine urine test for them.
3. Genital Infection
Sexually and non-sexually transmittable infections may lead to the presence of white blood cells in the urine of a person. Some of the infections that can cause leukocytes to appear in the urine of pregnant women are Chlamydia, vaginal yeast infection, bacterial vaginitis, gonorrhoea and genital herpes.
4. Kidney Infections
Kidney infections, or pyelonephritis, develops when urinary tract infection is left untreated in pregnant women. This is a serious condition that must be treated at the earliest to avoid preterm labour or premature rupture of the membranes. Kidney infections can cause leukocytes to appear in the urine and may cause fever, lower back pain and vomiting. Pregnant women often suffer from this more than others as the growing foetus squeezes against the kidney and bladder as it gets bigger.
5. Cystitis
This is a type of urinary tract infection that leads to the bladder becoming inflamed and causes the number of white blood cells in the urine to rise. The cause of this is bacteria and causes similar symptoms as UTI, but there is also lower back pain and discomfort in the pelvic region. If inflammation is severe, a trace of blood and leukocytes in urine during pregnancy can be found.
Signs and Symptoms of White Blood Cells in Urine while Pregnant
Most often, the signs and symptoms will vary depending on what is causing the rise in leukocyte levels. Some of the main symptoms of leukocytes in urine during pregnancy are:
Burning sensation while urinating
Frequent urination
Unable to empty bladder
Foul smelling urine
Cloudy looking urine
Lower back pain
Weakness and fatigue
A low fever may occur
Nausea and vomiting
Diagnosis
One of the most outstanding causes of an increase in leukocyte levels is due to a urinary tract infection.
1. How To Measure
A urine culture and sensitivity examination should be done to see if any bacteria are present in the urinary system. Your white blood cell count will be taken to help detect any infections that are hidden in the body. Pregnant women are allowed an increase in leukocytes to 5-6 in the field of vision, but this depends on if all other indicators remain unchanged. An increase to 10-20 indicates that there is most likely an inflammation somewhere in the excretory system. If the number goes up to 40-50, then this is an indication that the kidneys have been infected.
2. How To Analyse
If the result of the WBC count is either higher than or lower than the normal count that is needed for your age, then there is most likely an underlying problem. During the first trimester, the test is done every three to four weeks, during the second trimester it is done every two weeks, and by the third trimester, it is done every week. The analysis will require the first urine of the morning to be collected in a jar that has been sterilized to avoid contamination of the sample. Your doctor will also need to know all about your medical history, any medications that you are currently on and your symptoms to accurately identify what is causing the abnormal WBC count. Your WBC will also need to be checked at regular intervals to ensure that the treatment plan you have been put on is working or not.
3. Instrumental Diagnosis
This is usually an ultrasound where the bladder, urinary tract, and kidneys are studied. Any enlargement in the pelvic region will be clearly visible. Ultrasounds can detect the neurogenic bladder, polycystic kidney disease, and obstructive uropathy. A survey monography is also available that will show any change in the contour or positioning of the kidneys. Radiopaque methods are quite popular, and computed tomography can be used, but it does not have any special features or abilities that cannot be provided by an ultrasound.
4. Differential Diagnosis
In this, a clinical analysis of the urine is done where any increase of white blood cells can be seen. These analysis are compared with that of a woman’s general condition and her complaints. An anamnesis is available to help identify the cause of the condition. Sowing is a process that is carried out along with the urine analysis. Here the main pathogen is identified, and the right therapy is selected. Unfortunately, this does not always deliver accurate results. At least 20% of the results are false positives in this research, and so the test must be taken at least thrice before coming to any concrete result.
Effects and Complications
Treatment must commence immediately if you have been found with high levels of leukocytes and the doctors have determined their cause. If, for example, you have been found to have pyelonephritis, your doctors will start you on certain antibiotics that should be taken while carefully following the doctor’s instructions to avoid further complications with the pregnancy.
Eclampsia is another complication that may arise, and it causes a rise in blood pressure. Careful monitoring of your condition during pregnancy can save your baby’s life by avoiding the development of serious complications.
The cause of an increase in leukocytes depends on a person's condition. For example, if cystitis is a problem, it may turn serious as urination can be very painful. Further development of this can turn into gangrenous cystitis, where the pain will be intense, and there is a complete inability to urinate, putting your bladder and peritonitis at risk of rupturing.
Some infections will leave behind a residue of stone and sand as well. It is highly important to treat any problem at the earliest to avoid some very unpleasant and dangerous complications.
How To Treat Leukocytes in the Urine
There is no fixed method of treating the condition of an increased level of leukocytes in the urine. The treatment will vary depending on an individual’s levels of leukocytes as well as based on the cause of the issue.
1. Natural Disinfectants
If the inflammation is not serious, it can be treated with natural disinfectants and diuretics. Most pregnant women will be advised to drink decoctions of chamomile, black currant, and cowberry. The urine will be encouraged out of the body with these, decreasing the chance of developing more serious infections.
2. Antibiotics
If the inflammation is more serious, antibiotics will need to be administered, but the antibiotics used will need to be safe for your baby as well. The antibiotics and the decoctions will help eliminate the infection and prevent more serious complications in your pregnancy.
3. Surgery
If you have an obstruction such as kidney stones or a tumour that is causing the rise in leukocyte levels, you will most probably need surgery to remove the obstruction. Drink plenty of water to try and get rid of the smaller kidney stones, though passing it naturally is quite painful.
4. Sound-waves, Chemotherapy, and Radiation
For larger kidney stones, sound waves can be used to break them up. Chemotherapy and radiation are other options to look at in case of tumours.
Prevention
Here are some ways to prevent the rise of leukocytes in the urine:
Go for regular urine tests.
Drink a lot of water to flush out the bacteria and the toxins from the body.
Urinate often and regularly.
Maintain personal hygiene by washing your hands before you use the restroom, as well as by keeping your genitals clean after you have relieved yourself. When wiping, wipe from front to back.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about the rise in leukocytes:
1. Can Increased White Blood Cells in Urine Indicate Blood Leukemia?
Yes, an increase in the number of WBC in the urine can indicate the presence of Leukemia, a form of blood cancer. Elevated leukocytes in the urine are used to diagnose Leukemia and Lymphoma.
2. Can Elevated Number of WBCs in Urine Lead to STD Infection?
STDs such as Gonorrhoea and Chlamydia leave traces of elevated quantities of WBCs in the blood which is found through the urine. This is why elevated traces of WBC can be an indication of an STD.
3. Can Leukocytes in Urine Cause Foetal Death If Left Untreated?
There are cases where the rise in the number of leukocytes in the blood are associated with late toxicosis and other rather serious inflammatory problems. Women who have this are plagued with fatigue and increased pressure, and the risk of losing the baby is possible. If the leukocytes esterase in urine during pregnancy and the inflammation is detected on time, then there is no risk, but if left untreated, the child will be at risk, and there are high chances of complications during childbirth.
The most important thing is to identify and treat any rise in levels of leukocytes in the urine. If this is not done, it can have a very negative impact on your health and the life of your unborn child. Rest assured that most often, the abnormal WBC count will be noticed at the earliest as routine urinary tests are a part of the general check-ups for pregnant women. But if treatment is not followed regularly and care is not taken, the situation can worsen. So make sure you don’t miss any of your prenatal doctor's appointments and follow your doctor's instructions carefully when given.
Also Read: CBC (Complete Blood Count) Test in Pregnancy Read more
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Sitting Crossed-Legged (Indian Style) While Pregnant - Is it Safe?
It is crucial to keep maintain a proper posture when sitting to avoid body pain during pregnancy. Sitting with your legs crossed is known to raise blood pressure and can also disrupt blood circulation, causing varicose veins. Some pregnant women are advised to sit cross-legged. For many people, it is a preferred habit to sit cross-legged during mealtimes. A good posture while sitting improves muscle function, mental health, concentration and blood flow. The most important reason is that it helps in the progression of labour. Expectant ladies should avoid a sedentary lifestyle by stretching, taking walks, and sitting up straight. It is safe to say that women can sit cross-legged during pregnancy, as long as it feels comfortable.
Is Sitting Cross-Legged Safe During Pregnancy?
All pregnant women aim at a healthy pregnancy by taking care of matters that need attention. One cannot deny the fact that ‘Tailor Sitting’ opens up the pelvis and allows the baby to move down freely, preparing the expectant mom for labour. Keeping the advantages in mind, some women consciously prefer to sit this way while doing household chores, for religious ceremonies, or while doing yoga and meditation.
Who Should Completely Avoid Sitting in Indian Style when Pregnant
Despite the multiple benefits of sitting cross-legged, physiotherapists do not recommend it for some pregnant ladies. Following are some women who should completely avoid sitting in Indian style when pregnant:
Pregnant ladies who suffer from pelvic girdle pain (PGP) should avoid sitting in a cross-legged position.
Another reason is symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD), which tends to put the pelvis in an asymmetrical position. It causes an uneven distribution of weight on the legs, causing strain and discomfort.
Sometimes, sitting cross-legged for extended periods puts pressure on the legs and ankles, restricting circulation and causing swelling or varicose veins.
Some ladies develop back strain if they sit for long hours in any position, and not just the cross-legged position alone.
The article proves beyond doubt that body mechanics should be proper during pregnancy to minimise discomfort. The most important step in achieving body mechanics is good posture. Sitting Indian style is quite comfortable and improves blood circulation. It also stretches and maximises the flexibility of the thigh muscles. Hence, upright positions such as the cross-legged positions are great in bringing the baby to the cervix and aid in safer and easier delivery.
Also Read: Benefits of Good Posture during Pregnancy Read more
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Overweight and Trying to Get Pregnant?
It is a very widely known fact that chances of getting pregnant increase manifold if you are healthy and follow a healthy lifestyle. Being overweight lowers the chances of getting pregnant because of the fluctuating hormone levels. This affects the ovulation cycle of women and also the quality of eggs. Excess weight is known to interfere with the ovulation cycle, causing irregular periods. Though obese people do get pregnant without the need of any medical intervention, the more the weight increases, the less regular is the menstrual cycle.
Does Obesity Affect Female Fertility?
Can being overweight cause infertility? Well, yes it does. The lifestyle we follow and the choices we make are responsible for us being healthy or otherwise. A healthy pregnancy is the key to a healthy newborn. Being overweight undoubtedly affects the chances of having a healthy pregnancy. Let us look at the effect of obesity on fertility when trying to get pregnant:
1. Hormonal Imbalance
There are a lot of hormones that the body produces to ensure the smooth functioning of all the organs. Excess weight causes an imbalance in the hormone levels which in turn affects the way the body functions. Overweight women tend to have higher levels of Leptin - a hormone produce mainly by the fatty tissues of the body and plays a major role in disrupting the hormone balance of the body.
2. Irregular Periods
Due to the hormonal imbalance, the brain is tricked into believing that the periods are not due anytime soon. This results in an irregular cycle of menstruation. This has a cumulative effect. Apart from the mood swings that the hormones cause, the release of eggs also becomes irregular. This makes it extremely difficult to time your intercourse in order to maximise your chances of pregnancy.
3. Quality of Eggs
The quality of eggs that the body produces is largely dependent on the health of the woman. A healthy body would produce a healthy egg, simultaneously, if you are overweight, the quality of your eggs will get compromised. Obesity is also responsible for anovulation, which means the ovary does not release any eggs in the uterus for a successful pregnancy.
4. Insulin Resistance
Overweight is associated with an increased resistance level of insulin, a phenomenon where more insulin is produced by the body to keep the blood sugar at a normal level. Women with a higher concentration of fat in the abdomen are susceptible to this problem. The rise in the insulin level in the body causes a fall in the hormone binding protein, Globulin, which is responsible for regulating the hormones oestrogen and androgen.
5. Affects Fertility
An irregular period coupled with irregular production of eggs reduces the chances of getting pregnant. Being overweight or obese has a significant impact on your fertility, and it can also increase the chances of your IVF being unsuccessful.
Tips to Get Pregnant If You are Overweight
Overweight and want to get pregnant? We are here to help you. It is not a difficult task to get pregnant even if you are on the higher side of the weighing scale. We offer some tips to help you have a successful pregnancy.
1. Healthy Lifestyle
Avoid alcohol, smoking, and drugs. Eat healthy food. It is time for you to start preparing your own meals so that you know what you are eating and you can control the ingredients used.
2. Pre-conception Checkup
Most of the women who are overweight have been found to have small cysts in the ovary, also known as PCOS, that is caused due to hormonal imbalance in the body resulting from being overweight. Losing weight and taking medications have been successful in reducing PCOS.
3. Time it Right
Excess weight causes irregular ovulation cycles. Use the ovulation kits that are available at the medical stores to correctly time your intercourse and increase your chances of pregnancy.
4. Exercise- Lots of it
Women with a BMI of 30 or more are at a greater risk of developing gestational diabetes or gestational hypertension. Exercise at home or go out to the park more often to increase your chances of being healthy and getting pregnant.
5. Go for Whole Foods
Whole foods keep you satiated for a longer time. They are healthy and bursting with nutrients that enrich your body and immune system. This will help you maintain a healthy weight to support your pregnancy.
Healthy habits go a long way in having a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. Don’t let your weight ruin your dreams of becoming a mother. If you plan your pregnancy well in advance and work on addressing your weight issues, it is just a matter of time before you have a successful pregnancy.
Also Read: Getting Pregnant Without Ovulation: Is It Possible? Read more
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5 Things That Are Keeping You From Losing Weight!
Losing fat is difficult but exercise makes it possible. However, if you're regularly exercising but not losing weight, you could be guilty of doing things you shouldn't!
Reducing fat is a tough job. In fact, many wonder why despite slogging it out diligently for weeks, weight just doesn’t seem to be go. Wait. What if there are certain things you unknowingly do that are contributing to this?
1. You keep watching the scales
Be patient. Losing weight takes time and can’t be done quickly. The more often you check the weighing scales, the slower you’ll seem to be losing weight. You can also end up losing interest in your fitness plan!
What you should do instead: Have faith in yourself and give yourself time. Make a promise that you’ll check the scales every two weeks or three weeks, not every few days!
2. You could be cheating!
If you’re diligently working out but not losing weight, you may be knowingly or unknowingly sneaking in some extra calories from a chocolate bar, a slice of cake or a couple of packets of chips. Eating healthy and indulging yourself in treats in moderation is the only way you can achieve your target.
What you should do instead: Pick a diet plan that's realistic yet effective at the same time
3. Your lifestyle could be a hindrance
Another possible reason you’re exercising but not losing weight is your lifestyle. Today, many of us lead technologically advanced lifestyles that are unfortunately, quite sedentary. This can lead to disorders like obesity, blood pressure problems and even diabetes!
What you should do instead: When you need to get to the second or third floor of a building by a lift, take the stairs. Try to walk to stores rather than take a cab or your car.
4. You’ve set unrealistic targets
The thought of losing 10 kilos in a couple of months sounds fab, but you’ll need to work really hard and stick to a strict diet to achieve it. Don't just ask yourself ‘why am I not losing weight?’ but set realistic and achievable goals. A dedicated fitness challenge is a great way to bring your body into the groove and your abs ready to be toned - but you will need to keep up the hard work.
What you should do instead: Use this simple guide to set weight loss targets for yourself.
5. You don’t have a support system
While you try hard to achieve your weight loss goal, you’ll need a lot of support and help from your family and friends. You may feel the need for a push sometimes just to get out of the bed an hour earlier and put on your running shoes. Or maybe you just need someone to keep you from eating a large bowl of ice cream.
What you should do instead: Whatever it is, speak to your husband, family and friends and ask them to be by your side while you strive to lose weight. Even your pet can be a great support system and companion!
With strong will-power and a proper support system, no one can stop you from achieving your dreams. Stick to a diet that gives you all the nutrition you need. Eat in small portions frequently and treat yourself occasionally. You’ll soon see a change in yourself!
If none of the above apply to you but you are still unable to lose weight, check out our list of 19 shocking reasons you are unable to lose weight. Which one applies to you? Read more
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Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 4 months
1 hour ago
Q. #asktheexpert
why are my vomitings not stopping even in 5th month of my pregnancy. and constant headaches.
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
1 hour ago
A. this is seen in some people which my continue in second trimester also. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
1 hour ago
Q. is it normal to have 2 dominant follicles in Right ovary? Today is my D8 and the size of both the follicles are 20x18mm and 19x18 mm Is it normal.
and left ovary follicles 12x18mm.and ET size 7.89
pls advice
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
1 hour ago
A. if it is induced one then there can be chances. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
POOJA KOTHARI has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
1 hour ago
Q. what should I eat for a healthy baby in my 3rd month of pregnancy.kindly suggest a healthy diet routine
POOJA KOTHARI
Mom of a 7 yr 1 m old boy
1 hour ago
A. Whole grains — like brown rice, millet, oatmeal, bulgur, and whole-wheat bread. Proteins — like lean meats and chicken, eggs, seafood, beans and lentils, nuts and seeds, and tofu. Low-fat or fat-free dairy — like milk, yogurt, cheese, lactose-free dairy, and fortified soy beverages (soy milk) or soy yogurt.
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
1 hour ago
Q. in which month of pregnancy we should start excercising for normal delivery
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
54 mins ago
A. no exercises vigorously only moderate walking ok. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
1 hour ago
Q. #asktheexpert
I am 28 weeks pregnant and feeling breathlessness and Always tired ... is this normal ?
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
53 mins ago
A. this cannot be normal always better to see the doctor once. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Dr Vandan H Kumar has added a new answer
5 mins ago
Q. My 4 year baby have always complaint of abdomen pain.
Dr Vandan H Kumar
Paediatrician
3 mins ago
A. if the child is having abdominal pain give syrup colicaid or syrup cyclopam 5 ml to the child for now
then you have to meet the doctor to find the cause of abdominal pain because it can be either due to gas or due to worms or some other abdominal pathology or gastroenteritis, constipation, digestive issues.
in the meantime it is advisable to give only easily digestible food to the child and water andx buttermilk curd rice and dal.
can give poha upma daliya and fruits.
avoid milk products , packet foods and fried items and heavy diet.
you can continue anti-colicx medicines and your doctor may add antacids for the child for few days it will help in decreasing the gas as well as bloating.
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