WHAT’S WRONG WITH MY WEE?
Q: I am 22 years old and 27 weeks pregnant. When I went to the clinic they said my urine has leukocytes. I’m worried as I have a milky discharge. How long does it take to heal?
A:
Your healthcare provider should check your urine at every visit. The reason for this is that urinary tract infections (bladder and/or kidney infections) are far more common in pregnancy and can present in unusual ways. In fact, they can even be asymptomatic. UTIs can cause problems in pregnancy and specifically increase the risk of preterm labour. Signs that you may have a bladder infection include burning, frequency and pain passing urine. On a urine test there may be white blood cells (leukocytes), protein and nitrites. I’m sure the clinic gave you an antibiotic. The discharge you have now is most likely thrush – also very common in pregnancy and something women often get after taking antibiotics. This can cause itching, burning and a thick white discharge. It’s uncomfortable but isn’t dangerous to your pregnancy. Your clinic or a pharmacy can provide a cream for this.