During pregnancy, many women experience urge incontinence and discomfort during urination. In many cases, expectant mothers who self-diagnose may erroneously assume that a urinary tract infection is to blame. If a health care provider determines that symptoms are caused by infection and not hormonal changes or a fetus's weight against the bladder, she may recommend naturopathic interventions to eliminate the infection. Antibiotics may be necessary if the infection is severe or persists with natural treatment. A urinary tract infection left unchecked may lead to pregnancy complications, including preterm birth.
Increased Hydration
The Mayo Clinic recommends drinking copious amounts of water while fighting a urinary tract infection. Extra water can help to flush bacteria from the bladder and urethra; this intervention alone may eliminate mild urinary tract infections. Beverages containing alcohol or caffeine can worsen bladder irritation.
Cranberry Juice
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), compounds in cranberry can prevent urinary tract infections by preventing bacteria from clinging to the walls of the bladder. However, NIH notes that there is only limited evidence to suggest that cranberry alone can eliminate a pre-existing urinary tract infection. Consider using it as an adjunct to other treatments and therapies.
Acidophilus
Acidophilus, the most popular and widely researched form of probiotic, is similar to the "friendly" bacteria that live naturally in the human colon, vagina and urinary tract. The University of Maryland Medical Center acknowledges that, when combined with cranberry, acidophilus may help to treat urinary tract infections. The National Institutes of Health advise pregnant women to use high doses of acidophilus only under the guidance of a health care provider.
Echinacea
Widely touted as a broad-spectrum immune stimulant, echinacea may help to combat the strains of bacteria associated with urinary tract infections. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, echinacea does not appear to complicate pregnancy or increase the risk of preterm labor.
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