Pregnant Women's Frequent Urination

It is normal for a person to visit the toilet when they feel the urge to urinate or defecate. Normally, the urge to urinate or defecate occurs with a certain frequency, and we can easily notice an increase in the frequency. Some women may notice a significant increase in their urge to visit the toilet after becoming pregnant, and they may wonder about the reasons behind this change. So, what causes frequent urination during pregnancy?

Causes of Frequent Urination During Pregnancy

The bladder is located in front of the uterus in women. Therefore, as the uterus grows gradually during pregnancy, it can compress the bladder, leading to symptoms such as frequent urination and urgency. Additionally, the increase in bodily fluids and the continuous excretion of fetal metabolites can also increase the workload and capacity of the kidneys, further contributing to these symptoms. However, as the pregnancy progresses to the middle stage, the uterus rises and moves away from the pelvic cavity, relieving the pressure on the bladder and reducing the symptoms of frequent urination and urgency. In the late stages of pregnancy, as the uterus and fetus descend and return to the pelvic cavity, they may again compress the bladder, causing similar symptoms. After childbirth, these symptoms usually improve, and unless accompanied by other discomforts, they are considered normal physiological phenomena and do not require excessive concern.

Things to Note During Pregnancy

1. Moderate Sexual Activity: Sexual activity is a normal part of married life. However, during pregnancy, special attention should be paid to sexual activity to ensure the health of the fetus. Sexual intercourse should be avoided during the first three months of pregnancy.

2. Seeking Medical Attention for Certain Conditions: In the early stages of pregnancy, the most dangerous conditions are ectopic pregnancy and miscarriage, both of which can cause abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding. Therefore, if a pregnant woman experiences abdominal pain or vaginal bleeding, she should seek medical attention immediately.

3. Supplementing Folic Acid to Prevent Birth Defects: The first three months of pregnancy are crucial for the development of the fetal neural tube. Therefore, pregnant women should avoid exposure to various adverse factors such as smoking, alcohol, harmful chemicals, newly renovated houses, and poorly ventilated environments. They should also improve their immunity to avoid viral infections and refrain from taking medication without a doctor's advice. To prevent birth defects, pregnant women should start taking folic acid supplements early in their pregnancy (preferably from the time of planning pregnancy). Foods rich in folic acid include red amaranth, spinach, lettuce, asparagus, beans, yeast, animal liver, apples, oranges, etc.

4. Initial Prenatal Check-up: After confirming pregnancy, pregnant women should undergo their initial prenatal check-up at a community hospital around the 12th week of pregnancy and establish a health handbook for pregnant women. Subsequent prenatal check-ups can be conducted at a secondary hospital or the hospital where the delivery is planned.

5. Prenatal Diagnosis: Prenatal diagnosis can rule out some major abnormalities and can be performed as early as the 8th week of pregnancy. Currently, the most commonly used methods for chromosomal testing are chorionic villus sampling and peripheral blood screening. If necessary, amniotic fluid aspiration can be performed between the 16th and 20th weeks of pregnancy for further confirmation.

6. Avoiding Unsuitable Dietary Supplements: In the early stages of pregnancy, morning sickness may affect a pregnant woman's appetite to some extent. It is generally not recommended to consume large amounts of nutritional supplements during this period. Instead, pregnant women should eat what they like and prefer. For those who experience severe nausea and vomiting, it is advisable to consume light and easily digestible foods. As the pregnancy progresses to the middle stages and morning sickness symptoms disappear, it is still possible to supplement nutrients. During pregnancy, it is advisable to avoid hot and spicy foods such as dog meat, lamb, and pepper. When selecting dietary supplements during pregnancy, the principle of "preferring cool foods and avoiding hot foods" should be followed. Even fruits should be chosen based on their cooling or neutral properties, such as tomatoes, pears, and peaches.