How to Prevent Urinary Tract Infections in Late Pregnancy

In general, preventing urinary tract infections (UTIs) in the late stages of pregnancy requires a multi-faceted approach, including regular urinalysis, improved personal hygiene, increased fluid intake, wearing loose clothing, and adopting a left lateral decubitus position. A detailed explanation is as follows:

1. Regular Urinalysis

Urinalysis can promptly detect abnormalities in the urine, such as increased bacteria or proteinuria, aiding in the early detection of urinary tract infections and allowing for timely treatment.

2. Improved Personal Hygiene

Maintaining cleanliness and dryness of the external genital area helps prevent urinary tract infections. Pregnant women should change their underwear frequently, wash the external genital area daily with warm water, and pay attention to washing order to avoid cross-infection.

3. Increased Fluid Intake

Drinking more water increases urine output, which flushes the urinary tract and reduces the time bacteria remain in the urethra and bladder, thereby lowering the risk of infection.

4. Wearing Loose Clothing

Tight clothing may compress the external genital area, impairing local blood circulation and breathability, and increasing the risk of bacterial growth. Wearing loose clothing helps reduce this pressure and prevent urinary tract infections.

5. Adopting a Left Lateral Decubitus Position

In the later stages of pregnancy, lying on the left side can reduce uterine pressure on the ureters, promote urine excretion, and decrease the retention time of urine in the bladder, thus preventing urinary tract infections.

It is important to avoid excessive fatigue in daily life and ensure adequate sleep and rest to enhance physical immunity. Adjust the diet by consuming more light and easily digestible foods, and avoid spicy or irritating foods to reduce irritation to the urinary tract.