Leukocytes in urine in pregnancy

Leukocytes in urine during pregnancy can increase for various reasons. They are special white blood cells. Their main function is to protect the human body from dangerous viruses and microorganisms. There are several types of leukocytes that have a pronounced difference in structure and function. Together, they have an incredible effect on the body's defenses.

[ 1 ], [ 2 ]

Causes of increased leukocytes in urine during pregnancy

The development of this condition may be preceded by severe bleeding. In most cases, the level of leukocytes is affected by the presence of an inflammatory process in the body. It is possible to identify a particular disease only after special diagnostic measures have been carried out.

Most often, the pathological process is hidden in the presence of an inflammatory process of the genitourinary tract. Often, the problem is hidden in cystitis or pyelonephritis. These two diseases are frequent harbingers of changes in some indicators and their deviation from the norm.

Cystitis is an inflammation of the bladder. It can occur due to an infection that has entered the body. This can happen due to ordinary hypothermia or an infection in the kidneys. Sooner or later, the inflammatory process from the kidneys moves to the bladder. As mentioned above, pyelonephritis occurs due to the compression of the kidneys by the growing uterus. This allows dangerous microorganisms to freely penetrate the organ. If you start eliminating cystitis in time, then it will not pose any danger to the baby and mother. This inflammation is quite common. It can also be provoked by candidiasis. Thrush is quite common in pregnant women, especially in the later stages.

There are cases when it is not possible to determine the true cause of the increase in leukocytes. Usually, in such a course, a decision is made about antibiotic therapy. More details about this will be described in the section on drugs.

[ 3 ], [ 4 ]

The norm of leukocytes in urine during pregnancy

There are certain norms for the content of white blood cells in urine. Thus, their number should not exceed 6 pieces in the field of vision. According to Nechiporenko, this indicator is up to 2,000 per milliliter. If the numbers are elevated, it means that there is an inflammatory process in the body. It usually affects the kidneys, bladder and urinary tract. An increase in the indicator indicates the presence of an infection. As soon as it enters the body, the number of leukocytes increases and this is normal. Because they are trying to resist the inflammatory process and eliminate it on their own.

With moderate inflammation, leukocytes can fluctuate between 10 and 15. But if their number exceeds 40, it is something very serious. Most likely, the woman has developed pyelonephritis, which is an inflammation of the kidneys. Pregnant women suffer from this problem much more often than other segments of the population. This is due to the fact that the growing uterus compresses the kidneys and thus contributes to the addition of infection.

Pathogenesis

It is not so easy to describe the entire process unambiguously. Because there can be many reasons. Therefore, it is worth stopping at pyelonephritis - the most aggravating pathology for a pregnant woman. This condition is characterized by a decrease in one or more kidneys. The surface of the organs is uneven, there are areas of depression. The fibrous capsule is significantly thickened, it is difficult to separate it from the renal tissue. In the section of the organ, areas of scar tissue are visible. The cup and pelvis are somewhat widened.

The peculiarity of this pathological process is the focality and polymorphism of the damage to the renal tissue. Along with healthy areas of the skin, damaged tissues can be observed. The inflammatory process severely affects the interstitial tissue. The renal tubules are gradually involved in this process. Over time, they atrophy and die due to infiltration and sclerosis. The glomeruli are involved in the process at late stages.

Pathological changes affect the vessels quite early. This can lead to a sharp decrease in renal blood flow and the development of arterial hypertension. Morphological changes have a slowly increasing nature. This is due to the long-term duration of the disease. If you start eliminating the problem in a timely manner, the prognosis will be favorable.

Symptoms

Changes in the color of urine may indicate the presence of a problem. It becomes cloudy and dark. Mucous loose sediment is observed in the urine. These are the main indicators of changes in the level of leukocytes in the urine. There are usually no other symptoms. But much depends on the reason for which the pathological process was provoked. If it is cystitis, then in addition to changes in urine, frequent urination may bother the woman. Moreover, it is painful and brings a lot of inconvenience to the woman. Pain in the lower abdomen, burning, itching are possible

With pyelonephritis, the condition is not easier. The kidneys begin to ache, sometimes the pain is cutting. In addition, the situation with the bladder may also worsen. Therefore, if discomfort appears, you should seek help from a doctor.

You should immediately pay attention to changes in the shade of urine. If there are no other symptoms, you should still tell a specialist about it. Because over time, the situation begins to worsen and the symptoms become more pronounced and unpleasant.

The first signs of the appearance of leukocytes in urine

Symptoms of the presence of leukocytes in urine may include certain diseases and discomfort situations. For example, we are talking about kidney inflammation, bladder tumor, fever, blood in the urine, burning and pain, as well as cloudy urine.

Any disease is characterized by an increased number of leukocytes in the urine sediment. Moreover, over time, this indicator can become very high. If this symptom is present, you can notice a change in the shade of urine. If you place it in a vessel, then a loose sediment will be visible at the bottom. An increase in blood cells is called leukocytruia. This condition indicates inflammatory processes in the kidneys and genitals. The urinary system can also be negatively affected. To establish an accurate diagnosis, it is recommended to take a repeated urine test. It is desirable that the "raw material" be taken using a catheter.

The highest number of leukocytes can be observed in pyelonephritis. Less often - in lomerulonephritis. This disease is characterized by an infectious-allergic course.

Protein and leukocytes in urine during pregnancy

Normally, there should be no protein in the urine. Despite this, there is an acceptable amount of it. So it should not exceed the mark of 0.033 g / l. In modern laboratories, this indicator changes to 0.14 g / l. Most often, protein can appear after intense physical activity or stress.

In some cases, the problem is caused by inflammatory processes in the body. Most often, in pregnant women, this is associated with pyelonephritis and late toxicosis. Pyelonephritis is an infectious inflammation of the kidneys. Its main symptoms include a sharp increase in body temperature, pain in the lower back, and also in the kidney area. The person feels generally unwell. This pathology can lead not only to the appearance of protein in the urine, but also to an increase in the number of leukocytes in it. The problem must be eliminated without fail.

Protein in the urine along with edema and high blood pressure is a sign of late toxicosis. This disease is the most dangerous. It must be eliminated immediately. Toxicosis itself is a normal addition to pregnancy, but if it appears in the later stages, the probability of fetal death increases.

Leukocytes and erythrocytes in urine during pregnancy

Red blood cells in urine can appear for physiological reasons. Most often, this is due to the actively growing uterus. It quickly increases in size, and thus gradually compresses the ureters and bladder. Thus, urine stagnation occurs. This condition can be provoked by circulatory disorders and filtration disorders in the kidneys. All this, undoubtedly, affects the appearance of red blood cells in the urine. This phenomenon does not pose any danger, either for the mother or for the child.

Red blood cells in urine can appear due to sudden hormonal changes in the body of a pregnant woman. This is a completely normal phenomenon, it should not bother the woman in labor. When urine stagnates, stones and sand can form. Passing through the urinary tract, they can injure them. In this case, the woman may not feel any discomfort at all until the stone or sand begins to move from its place. This process is accompanied by severe and acute pain.

Erythrocytes in urine during pregnancy may indicate the presence of infectious diseases of the genitourinary system. In this condition, a woman feels pain, burning, stinging and suffers from fever. A similar picture is with the appearance of leukocytes in urine. The reasons for this process are the same. Most often, cystitis, pyelonephritis and the presence of a venereal infection provoke everything.

Consequences

The consequences can be really serious. So, if high leukocyturia was detected during urine testing and pyelonephritis was diagnosed, immediate treatment must be started. It is advisable to use antibiotics, but only those approved. This will help avoid serious consequences and give birth to a healthy baby.

Late gestosis may act as a complication. This phenomenon is late toxicosis. It is especially dangerous for women. The pathology can lead to high blood pressure and death of the fetus. Another consequence is eclampsia. This condition is characterized by increased blood pressure. Moreover, its indicator can be so high that there is a risk for both the mother and the child. Often, hypertension can develop against the background of leukocyturia. There is a risk of not carrying the baby to term or infecting it.

You need to carefully monitor your own condition during pregnancy. This will allow you to avoid many serious consequences and give birth to a healthy child, without deviations.

[ 5 ]

Complications

Of course, an increased number of leukocytes can provoke the development of serious complications. Everything depends on the reason for this. So, if the problem is caused by cystitis, it must be eliminated immediately. Because the woman is bothered by discomfort associated with constant urination and pain during this process. When the situation gets out of control, gangrenous cystitis can develop. It is characterized by acute pain and complete urinary retention. In this case, the bladder ruptures and peritonitis occurs. Perhaps this is the most terrible complication.

But there are still a number of unpleasant symptoms that may arise if the problem is not eliminated in time. Thus, a constant increase in pressure is possible. Due to the presence of an infection, stones and sand may accumulate in the bladder. Late toxicosis often occurs. All this affects the condition of the mother and child and can lead to serious consequences.

[ 6 ], [ 7 ], [ 8 ]

Diagnostics

The first stage of the examination is a general urine analysis. Thanks to it, it is possible to notice pathology in the body of a pregnant woman. This analysis must be taken at each visit to the doctor.

Normally, a pregnant woman can have leukocytes up to 5-6 in the field of view. But this is only possible if other indicators are unchanged. An increase in leukocytes to 10-20 in the field of view directly indicates the presence of an inflammatory process in the excretory system of the body. If their number exceeds 40-50, then the kidneys are affected. The inflammatory process is actively progressing in them and requires certain treatment. Otherwise, serious complications cannot be ruled out.

If the doctor doubts the results of the analysis, additional urine tests may be suggested. Thus, the urine test according to Nechiporenko is taken. It allows to determine a more accurate level of leukocytes and erythrocytes per 1 ml of the raw material being examined. Normally, the indicator should not exceed 2,000 in 1 ml. There is also the Zimnitsky test. Thanks to it, it is possible to study the functioning of the kidneys. The test must be taken throughout the day, every 3 hours, even at night.

[ 9 ], [ 10 ], [ 11 ], [ 12 ], [ 13 ]

Tests

During pregnancy, a woman should constantly take tests. This will allow the doctor to notice deviations from the norm at any time and begin to solve the problem. The most relevant study during pregnancy is the analysis of the number of leukocytes. It is thanks to this indicator that visible changes in the woman's body can be noticed.

To check the level of leukocytes, you need to take a urine test. This is a mandatory procedure for all women. It must be done with a certain regularity at each visit to the antenatal clinic. In the first trimester of pregnancy, urine tests are taken every 3-4 weeks. In the second trimester, more often once every 2 weeks. In the last months, urine must be brought for testing every 7 days.

For analysis, it is necessary to collect morning urine in a sterile jar. The container must be thoroughly washed and dried naturally. If there are any doubts, sterile containers from the pharmacy are used. The first drops of urine must be flushed down the toilet, and the rest sent for analysis. Before collecting urine, it is imperative to wash the genitals. The material to be analyzed must be submitted to the laboratory no later than one and a half hours after its collection.

[ 14 ], [ 15 ], [ 16 ]

Instrumental diagnostics

Instrumental diagnostics is an ultrasound examination. Usually the urinary bladder, urinary tract and kidneys are examined. In pyelonephritis, expansion of the renal pelvis is noticeable, as well as coarsening of the cup contour. Heterogeneity of the parenchyma with areas of its scarring is noticeable. The latter "symptom" is noticeable only in the chronic course of the disease.

Delayed manifestations of the inflammatory process include deformation of the kidney contour and change in its size. This is not a specific symptom, it can be observed in other inflammations. In glomerulonephritis, the organ shrinkage and scarring occurs symmetrically. In pyelonephritis, even a dual process can have a pronounced asymmetry.

Ultrasound can detect neurogenic bladder, polycystic kidney disease, and obstructive uropathy. Special contrast agents can be used for diagnostics. Survey urography is often performed. However, it is not particularly informative. It will only allow you to notice changes in the position of the kidneys and their contour. Radiocontrast methods are especially popular.

Computer tomography can also be used. But it is only advisable in the case of possible pyelonephritis. This procedure does not have any particular advantage over ultrasound.

Differential diagnostics

This type of examination includes a clinical urine analysis. It allows one to see an increase in the number of leukocytes. The test data is always compared with the general condition of the woman, her complaints. Anamnesis is also collected, this will allow one to identify the cause of this condition.

In addition to the urine analysis, a culture is carried out. This method is almost ideal for identifying the main pathogen and selecting the right therapy. However, this type of research does not always give real results. Thus, a single culture can give about 20% of false positive results. Therefore, it is recommended to take it at least 3 times to ensure the reliability of the information received. It is not possible to collect a culture from everyone. It is not particularly difficult for a pregnant girl. But if she has non-specific vaginal discharge, the reliability of the results is reduced to zero. Finally, if there is no bacteriuria, the probability of sowing a bacterial culture is reduced to almost zero.

[ 17 ], [ 18 ]

How to treat leukocytes in urine during pregnancy?

It should be noted that there is simply no universal treatment plan. The doctor chooses a method to eliminate the problem depending on the number of leukocytes, the reason why it happened and the condition of the woman herself. Not only the clinical picture, but also the gestational age play a special role.

Mild forms of inflammation can be corrected with the help of special natural diuretics and disinfectants. Most often, pregnant women are prescribed to drink a decoction of chamomile, lingonberry, black currant. They help to provoke the removal of urine from the body and thereby eliminate the infection. It is possible to use natural preparations such as Canephron.

If the inflammatory process is more pronounced, then it is impossible to do without the use of antibacterial drugs. When choosing a medication, it is necessary to take into account the degree of safety for the child. This issue is handled by a specialist.

The use of local antibacterial drugs has a good effect. Instillation of the bladder and urethra with special disinfectant solutions significantly reduces the risk of their penetration into the systemic bloodstream.

Medicines

To eliminate the problem, a number of medications are used. Thus, natural-based products, such as Canephron, are especially popular. But it is not always possible to eliminate problems with their help, so Clotrimazole, Monural, Amoxicillin and Furadonin come to the rescue.

• Canephron. The drug is taken orally, 2 tablets 2-3 times a day. The duration of use of the drug depends on the desired therapeutic effect and is prescribed exclusively by the attending physician. Contraindications: hypersensitivity. Despite its herbal basis, the drug may not suit everyone. Side effects: allergic reactions are possible.
• Clotrimazole. This drug is used in the form of suppositories. It is necessary to check with the attending physician whether it is possible to use this method of treatment during pregnancy. One suppository at night for 10 days is enough for complete recovery. Contraindications: hypersensitivity, menstruation, first trimester of pregnancy. Side effects: itching, burning, frequent urination, cystitis.
• Monural. This drug is a broad-spectrum antibacterial agent. Use it during pregnancy only with the permission of a doctor. Before taking the drug, dissolve it in 1/3 cup of liquid. The drug should be taken once a day 2 hours before meals. It is advisable to move the intake to the evening hours. Contraindications: severe renal failure, allergic reactions. Side effects: heartburn, nausea, diarrhea.
• Amoxicillin. This is a bactericidal antibiotic, so it should be used with extreme caution. Before using it, it is necessary to determine the person's sensitivity to it. The dosage of the drug is prescribed individually. Usually 0.5 g is used 3 times a day. Contraindications: mononucleosis, allergic reactions, hypersensitivity. Side effects: allergic reactions, rhinitis, joint pain.
• Furadonin. The drug is used in a dosage of 0.1-0.15 g 3-4 times a day. The dosage can be adjusted depending on the person's condition. Contraindications: hypersensitivity, chronic heart failure, pregnancy. Side effects: allergic reactions, hepatitis, chest pain, cough.

Folk remedies

Traditional medicine does not stand still. Today it offers a lot of effective recipes. But, you should not take them without the consent of a doctor. There is a risk for the baby.

• Recipe 1. Take 3 teaspoons of ground elder and a tablespoon of pine cones. Mix these ingredients together. Then take just one tablespoon of the mixture and pour two glasses of boiling water over it. Let the decoction steep for a while. Then cool the remedy and use it. It is especially effective for bladder inflammation.
• Recipe 2. Take three teaspoons of perennial daisy flowers and pour two glasses of boiling water over them. Then let it brew for 3 hours. The resulting remedy has an incredible effect. It is enough to use it for just a week to feel the positive result.
• Recipe 3. If cystitis bothers you, take 4 tablespoons of cleavers and pour a glass of boiling water over it. Then let the tincture sit for a while. Take half a glass 4 times a day before meals.

[ 19 ], [ 20 ], [ 21 ], [ 22 ], [ 23 ]

Herbal treatment

Herbs have always had medicinal properties. But in order not to harm your own body, they must be taken in a special sequence. A pregnant girl should undergo such treatment exclusively under the supervision of a specialist.

• Recipe 1. Yarrow infusion. Take 2 spoons of the main ingredient and pour a glass of boiling water over it. Then let it brew for an hour and strain. You can take a quarter of a glass 3 times a day before meals. The infusion is especially effective for bladder inflammation.
• Recipe 2. Horsetail decoction. You need to take horsetail and chamomile flowers. Their quantity does not matter, the main thing is to mix the ingredients together. Then pour a glass of boiling water over everything and boil. Drink the remedy hot, three glasses a day, preferably in small sips.
• Recipe 3. Calamus root. Take a teaspoon of this ingredient and pour a glass of boiling water over it. Then let it brew for 20 minutes and strain. Take half a glass 4 times a day 30 minutes before meals.

Homeopathy

Homeopathic remedies have proven themselves long ago. But, before using them, it is worth getting advice from an experienced homeopathic doctor. This will help to avoid possible consequences. It should be understood that homeopathic remedies have not undergone clinical trials. Therefore, pregnant girls should use them with special caution.

• Berberis (berberis - barberry). This drug will easily cope with the problems of early stone formation. It eliminates stabbing pain, burning in the groin and on the right. The remedy works especially well on well-fed people.
• Borax (borax - borax). This remedy is the best among antifungal. It has an excellent effect on candidiasis and eliminates the problem. It is worth noting that this drug promotes conception.
• Cannabis sativa (cannabis - hemp). This drug has a pronounced effect on the urinary, genital and respiratory tracts. Previously, it was used to eliminate gonorrhea. The drug eliminates discomfort and the urge to urinate frequently.
• Causticum (causticum). This is one of the remedies that is used in chronic diseases. It eliminates unpleasant symptoms and makes life easier for a person.
• Equisetum (equisetum - horsetail). The main action of the remedy is aimed at the urinary organs. It eliminates pain in the kidneys, bladder and ureters.

Prevention

Preventive measures for increasing leukocytes are associated with preventing the development of inflammatory processes in the body. It is important to prevent the development of pyelonephritis. To do this, you need to constantly submit urine for analysis and undergo examination. It is advisable to eliminate all possible inflammatory processes in the bladder and urinary tract.

You should avoid intense physical activity and stressful situations. They are of no use to a pregnant woman. You need to spend more time outdoors, rest, and not get nervous over trifles. You should not miss consultations with a doctor. This applies to those days when you need to give urine for analysis. If strange symptoms appear, you should not ignore them. This may be a signal of the onset of a serious inflammatory process in the body. If necessary, a certain diet is followed, which is agreed upon with the attending physician.

Forecast

The prognosis of this condition depends entirely on when the first symptoms were noticed. Thus, with timely elimination of the inflammatory process, the prognosis is favorable. Usually, the health of the woman and her child is not threatened.

In some cases, an increase in leukocytes is associated with late toxicosis and the presence of serious inflammatory processes. These conditions cannot be ignored. Because late toxicosis carries a certain danger. A woman is bothered not only by fatigue and high blood pressure. There is a risk of fetal death. In case of severe inflammatory processes, their elimination is mandatory. Because it can affect the course of labor. It is quite possible that the prognosis will be unfavorable.

It is difficult to say for sure how this situation will turn out for a woman. It is important to make a decision promptly and eliminate the problem in a timely manner. This will increase the chances for a favorable course.

[ 24 ], [ 25 ], [ 26 ], [ 27 ], [ 28 ]