I am now 5 mths pregnant. Recently when I was told there is a trace of protein in my urine. what does it mean?

Question

I asked the trainee nurses that did the test what it meant and was told to as the doc. I then asked the doc and was told it was nothing to worry about at this stage which left me confused. Am I to worry about it later. Does it have anything to do with my kidney or could it have beeen my diet for the day. If there is anyone out there who knows about these things please answer me! anxiously waiting your reply

Answer 1

Traces of protein warning signals the early signs of possible development of Pre eclampsia which can, if unchecked, cause difficulty and in severe cases complications that can be dangerous for both mom and baby. It usually develops in the second trimester (after the 20th weeks usually, earlier in some cases) and can cause high blood pressure, oxygen deficiency to the baby which in turn can cause slow growth, thinning of your blood, liver disfunction etc. If left untreated convulsions and the progress to eclampsia, potentially life threatening to the infant and mother can occur.

This condition is determined to be genetics based thus a history of this could be in your family (mother, sister etc). Your organs (kidney, liver, heart, lungs) can all become affected and the level at which nutrients including oxygen are supplied to the infant can become drastically impaired.

You will notice obvious facial swelling as well as perhaps excessive swelling in your extremities (hands, fingers, feet), in severe cases severe headaches, visual disturbance, vomiting and upper abdominal pain can exist. Early delivery in severe cases is almost always necessary.

However, small amounts of protein are sometimes acceptable, anything more than a "trace" is cause for concern and should be monitored by your doctor with regular blood pressure readings and blood work to monitor the protein levels.

Restrict your intake of sodium (salt), drink plenty of water and if possible try to take walks that last between 10 and 20 minutes daily (normal pace, no brisk walking necessary)...also ensure you receive plenty of rest and eat right. Vitamins during pregnancy particularly folic acid are important as well.

You should be able to get through this with no complications but to ensure your doctor has a good slant on your condition, provide him with your families history with Pre eclampsia as this could allow him to determine what course of action to take. He will keep an eye on you now so that this doesn't progress unchecked and create hospitalization, early delivery or any severe complications.

Good luck...trace urine is a sign, you've been given an early warning signal that now allows you and your doctor to ensure both your and your baby's health won't be impaired, do what you can to keep yourself healthy and you will both be fine.

Answer 2

I was once informed that after I confirmed postive for keytones/protein it was once a signal that my frame was once now not receiving sufficient nutirents and was once utilizing up fats - this was once to begin with caused by means of servere morning illness however I could additionally get a confident later in my being pregnant (after the illness ultimately ended) if I was once hungry or as a result of have a meal whilst I gave a pattern. Being even fairly dehydrated too can final result the effect too. I built gestational diabetes however my urine under no circumstances confirmed confident for glucose.

Answer 3

Having a trace of protein is quite normal (I always did during all 3 pregnancies) but if it gets higher it can be an indicator of bigger problems (ie: pre eclamsia) but unless your doctor is worried then there is no need for you to worry. Honestly, the best thing you can do for your baby is eat well rest and stay relaxed!! Good luck!

Answer 4

Dont worry about it. They will probably just keep a closer eye on it because it can be a sign of such things as preeclampsia which can affect kidneys. But a trace is not enough to worry about. Doctor just has to take precautions.

Answer 5

If you have high blood pressure as well it could be signs of early preelampsia. Your dotor will moniter it closely so there's no need to worry. Good luck.