Many times, those who are trying to get pregnant may face various problems in reaching a positive result, and cystitis1 is one of those factors that can raise the question of whether it can interfere with conception. But after all, what causes a urinary tract infection? Can it really interfere with getting pregnant?
A urinary tract infection primarily affects the bladder, but it can impact the entire urinary tract, the pathways that transport urine from the kidneys to the bladder (urethra), and of course, the kidneys, where all ingested fluids are filtered. Various factors can cause a urinary tract infection, but mainly it is the uncontrolled proliferation of bacteria that leads to a localized infection. These bacteria can be acquired from poorly washed underwear but can also be picked up from environments like bathrooms or surfaces where you sit, etc. Another factor that causes urinary tract infection is how often the bladder is emptied. Holding urine in favors even greater bacterial growth and worsens the problem.
Sexual intercourse is also a factor that can cause a urinary tract infection. If the man is infected with these bacteria and the immune system is weakened, it is possible for transmission to occur. Of course, this is not the most common way to acquire a urinary infection, but it is possible. Other diseases can also be key causes of urinary tract infection, as long as they are caused by bacteria that are resistant to the urinary tract environment, such as chlamydia2, for example. The most common form of transmission is via feces; in these cases, it is important to remember that women should always wipe from front to back to avoid any risks.
The symptoms of a urinary tract infection are for the most part quite similar from person to person. You should suspect a urinary infection if you experience:
- Bladder pain
- Burning sensation when urinating
- Feeling of a full bladder but passing only a small amount of urine
- Dark, strong-smelling urine
- Pain in the lower abdomen
Diagnosing what causes a urinary tract infection and at what stage it is, is simple. A type 1 urine test can easily detect elevated white blood cells or traces of blood in the urine. It is also possible to do a urine culture, which will show exactly which bacteria are causing the urinary tract infection. This is the simplest and most effective way to know exactly which medication to use for treatment and in most cases resolves 97% of urinary tract infection causes3.
How Can a Urinary Tract Infection Affect Conception?
Since this is an infection in a channel very close to the uterus, where fertilization and thus pregnancy occurs, yes, it is possible for the infection to interfere with getting pregnant. However, it interferes not because of the bacteria themselves, but because of the problems that the infection may cause, such as pain. The urinary tract, bladder, and urethra are very close to the entrance of the vagina, and having sex during a flare can cause pain, burning, and discomfort. During the fertile period, the pain may be even worse because the uterus and ovaries will become swollen and put pressure on the bladder, which would already be sore from the infection.
If a woman is feeling any discomfort in the pelvic region, it is essential to see a doctor to find out the reason. Diagnosis is simple and so is treatment. The doctor will prescribe appropriate antibiotics and will also recommend medications for pain until the cause of the urinary infection is discovered.
It is important to remember that it is advisable to drink plenty of fluids, preferably water, teas, and natural fruit juices, as well as coconut water, to help clean the bladder and help eliminate the urinary infection along with medication. When having sexual intercourse, it is best to empty the bladder beforehand and, if possible, clean the area afterward with soap and warm water. Avoid wearing underwear that increases heat in the genital area, such as nylon panties and tight, warm, or tight-fitting pants. Switching from internal to external pads also greatly reduces the risk of urinary tract infections and changing them frequently is also important.
See also: How Long Does It Take to Get Pregnant After Stopping Birth Control?
Photo: Alex Dram
