Urinary tract infection following delivery Save
ICD-10 code: O86.2
Chapter: Pregnancy, childbirth and the puerperium
Urinary tract infection following delivery: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common among women, especially after giving birth. A UTI can occur when bacteria from the rectum or vagina enter the urethra and travel to the bladder or kidneys. This can result in painful and uncomfortable symptoms such as frequent urination, burning sensation during urination, and lower abdominal pain.
Postpartum UTIs can be caused by several factors, including prolonged labor, catheterization during delivery, and hormonal changes. Women who have had multiple pregnancies, gestational diabetes, or a history of UTIs are at higher risk of developing a postpartum UTI.
Symptoms of a UTI can vary, but common signs include:
- Pain or burning during urination
- Frequent urination
- Lower abdominal pain or discomfort
- Fever or chills (in severe cases)
If you suspect you may have a UTI following delivery, it is important to seek medical attention. Your healthcare provider may perform a urine culture to determine the type of bacteria causing the infection and prescribe antibiotics to treat it.
In addition to taking antibiotics, there are several steps you can take to help prevent UTIs following delivery:
- Drink plenty of water to flush out bacteria
- Wash your hands frequently to prevent the spread of bacteria
- Urinate frequently to prevent bacteria from accumulating in the bladder
- Wipe from front to back after using the restroom to prevent the spread of bacteria from the rectum to the urethra
UTIs are a common complication following delivery, but with prompt medical attention and proper hygiene practices, they can be effectively treated and prevented. If you experience symptoms of a UTI following delivery, don't hesitate to contact your healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.