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UTIs in Pregnancy & Postpartum

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are unfortunately very common during pregnancy and postpartum. Your urinary tract includes your urethra, kidneys, and bladder. Pregnancy causes changes to the urethra, hormones, pressure on the bladder, prolapse, a weak pelvic floor, and a harder time staying clean, these are all factors that can cause infection. Pregnancy is also a state of immunocompromise, meaning you have a lowered ability to fight infections and diseases.

It’s rare that a UTI will cause problems with your pregnancy and usually, they are easy to treat. But when you’re pregnant or have a newborn, it’s the last thing you want to think about.

How Do you get a UTI?

 

These infections happen when outside bacteria get into the urethra or develop in the urinary tract. Symptoms of a UTI can include,

  • Persistent urge to urinate
  • A burning or painful sensation while using the bathroom
  • Only peeing in small amounts
  • Cloudy, red, pink, or brown colored urine
  • Bad smelling urine
  • Pelvic pain or pressure
  • Pain during sex
  • Incontinence
  • Chills, fever, nausea, vomiting

Obesity, diabetes, a weak pelvic floor, organ prolapse, age, disabilities, and injuries can also all make UTIs more common.

How to Avoid UTIs 

 

  • Drink enough fluids
  • Adopt a healthy diet
  • Go to the bathroom regularly
  • Wipe from front to back
  • Use a mild soap
  • Pee and rinse off after sex
  • Wear clean, breathable underwear
  • Don’t wear clothing that is too tight
  • Avoid long or soapy baths

UTIs while Pregnant or Breastfeeding 

 

Talk with your doctor about your UTI. UTIs are common and safe to have while pregnant and breastfeeding (not that you want them!). The important thing is making sure they don’t spread into something more serious.

Kidney infections (pyelonephritis) can happen when your UTI is not taken care of or because your urine is not being properly drained from the kidney to the bladder due to pressure from pregnancy and hormones. Pyelonephritis can cause an infection of your blood (sepsis), respiratory problems, and preterm labor if untreated.

Your doctor will prescribe antibiotics that are safe for pregnancy and breastfeeding. Make sure you take all of the doses, even if you start to feel better. Learn the signs of a UTI and do what you can to prevent them!

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The Science Behind Mama Strut Postpartum Brace

Mama Strut Postpartum Brace breakdown

We want to give a little depth to the science behind the design for the Mama Strut Postpartum Brace. New research and techniques in medicine come out constantly, and our team stays up-to-date on the most relevant postpartum and women’s health news. Which is why Mama Strut uses the sports medicine P.O.L.I.C.E. Method:

PROTECT the pelvis with gentle support that maintains a level of protection and rest of the pelvic floor.

OPTIMAL LOADING allows for gradual loading at the areas affected by pregnancy and postpartum to prevent atrophy. Icing affected areas will help manage swelling and acute pain.

COMPRESSION not only holds ice to the body, but helps new mamas reduce swelling.

ELEVATION contractions and exercise of the pelvic floor help reduce bladder incontinence.

A lot of mamas ask if the Mama Strut is a wrap or band but it’s so much more than those options. The Mama Strut is a brace that addresses the full range of needs mamas face postpartum and allows for optimal healing instead of being focused on “bouncing back” or “getting the body back” as many wraps and bands are. Our most important role is being a support you can count on during your postpartum journey.