Urinalysis

Urinalysis is done at each prenatal visit.  Because of the escalated progesterone levels in a pregnant woman (which soften and dilate the urethra), an infection may not present the same symptoms as early as in a non-pregnant woman.  Presence of infection, as well as glucose and protein are common things screened for in pregnancy.

• If pregnancy is unconfirmed, the provider may use a urine pregnancy test to confirm or rule out pregnancy.

• Leukocytes are white blood cells found in mucus. If pus were present in the urine, it would more than likely indicate a urinary tract infection. 

• The ph of a woman's urine can indicate certain bacterial infections, dehydration, or even diabetes mellitus.

• If a woman spills protein in her urine, it could be a sign of Toxemia/Preeclamsia. (See Toxemia/Preeclampsia)  However,  it could mean the mother has not eaten in a while or that her recent diet has been  lacking in protein.

• Higher glucose (sugar) levels are common during pregnancy, but will still alarm most physicians/providers to gestational diabetes.  (See Gestational Diabetes)

• Blood in the urine usually means the mother has a urinary tract infection;  however, large amounts can be an indicator of disease in the body or over strenuous exercise.

• If the provider notes that ketones are being spilled into the urine,  an inadequate amount of food/calories are being consumed, causing the mother's reserves to be used up/burned off.

• Nitrites present in the urine usually go hand in hand with a urinary tract infection.