Protein In Urine During Pregnancy – What Does It Mean?

Protein in urine is referred to as proteinuria. A small amount of protein in urine during pregnancy is normal and can be expected. Larger amounts however signify an infection. In late pregnancy, if excess protein is found in urine, it can indicate a more serious complication is developing, such as preeclampsia.

Protein is tested basically in pregnant women to rule out the possibility of infection or other conditions which may cause complications for mothers and babies if left untreated.  This also helps your doctor to be sure that your kidneys are working properly.

What Causes Protein in Urine?

• Preeclampsia
• Kidney infection
• Urinary tract infection
• Stress
• Fever
• Dehydration
• Medications
• Extremely strenuous exercise
• Medical conditions, such as heart disease, kidney disease diabetes, leukemia, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and sickle cell anemia.

What Happens If Protein is Found?

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If a large amount of protein is found, further laboratory testing will be done, to see if there is infection present. Your care provider will check to see if you have any of the following symptoms of preeclampsia, which is more likely to occur in the third trimester:

• High blood pressure
• Sudden swelling of hands, feet and face
• Blurred vision or flashing lights
• Headaches
• Nausea and vomiting.

It’s difficult to know what group of women will develop preeclampsia, but you can know based on family history. That being said, staying in good health is essential during pregnancy, to provide the best foundations for your baby. Keep in mind also, that pregnancy comes with its many discomforts, as hormones encourage the muscles in your urinary tract to relax. It may be difficult to steer clear of some infections, especially UTI’s. Practice good hygiene by wiping front to back after you urinate.