Why do we test your pee in pregnancy

Why do we test your pee in pregnancy.

It's lovely isn't it, having to pee into a tiny, skinny little pot when you can barely see your feet let alone which angle you're peeing!

If you're lucky, you may be given funnel to help guide you! A urine test is used to gain an indication of bladder or kidney infections, diabetes, dehydration, and preeclampsia by screening for high levels of sugars, proteins, ketones, blood and bacteria (leucocytes can sometimes mean there is an infection but not always)

When you provide a urine sample, wipe yourself first to avoid contamination of the sample with discharge - this may skew the results.

High leels of sugars may suggest gestational diabetes. Your doctor or midwife may suggest you go for further testing if the test stick comes back high. Higher levels of protein may suggest a possible urinary tract infection or kidney disease.

Additionally, preeclampsia may be a concern if higher levels of protein are found later in pregnancy, especially when combined with high blood pressure and other symptoms. If your waters have broken and you do a urine test, its highly likely the sample will be contaminated with the fluid and show high levels of protein, something your care provider will bear in mind.

Be prepared to provide urine samples regularly throughout your pregnancy. In the UK we test at every appointment!