Why is my urine checked all the time, and what is it checked for?

A specimen of your urine will be tested at most antenatal visits because there are several problems which are specific to pregnancy which can be identified from abnormalities in urine content: Glucose (sugar) in the urine is common in pregnancy. If your urine consistently contains glucose, You may be asked to have a blood test (either glucose tolerance test or random blood glucose) and if the glucose level is high then this be diabetes of pregnancy, known as ''gestational diabetes'' and you and your baby will need closer monitoring throughout the pregnancy Protein found in the urine of pregnant women is common because the normal vaginal discharge all women experience is increased and may contaminate the urine sample, showing as protein. On a more serious level it may be indicative of a bacterial infection of the kidneys or bladder or an underlying problem with high blood pressure of pregnancy. Ketones are found in urine after prolonged vomiting, dehydration or occasionally missing too many meals. It suggests an alteration in the body?s metabolic (energy generating) system. Very rarely it can be associated with poorly controlled diabetes.
Urine Tests

You will be asked to provide a urine specimen, which is tested by a nurse or midwife to check for possible irregularities.

Glucose (sugar) More than a trace of glucose may be a sign of diabetes. You may need a blood test.
Protein When this is found in quantity in the urine, it may signal a bladder or kidney infection, or preeclampsia.
Ketones These are substances, that if present, mean that the body''s metabolic system is upset, probably because you haven''t eaten enough or have vomited.
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