Kidney Stones During Pregnant: Symptoms, Treatments & Prevention

Not enough fluids

If you don't consume enough water you can end up with higher levels of phosphorus, calcium and other minerals that can increase the chances of kidney stones forming.

Genetics

Your genes can play a role in your likelihood to develop kidney stones. For those who have a family history of hypercalciuria where there is a high amount of calcium found in the urine, you will be more likely to suffer from kidney stones.

Gastrointestinal sensitivity

Individuals who suffer from this condition tend to be prone to kidney stones because of the inflammation in the intestines during bowel movement. This inflammation can increase calcium deposits that form crystals.

Too much calcium

While pregnant women are recommended to consume more calcium while pregnant, if too much is consumed, this can put additional pressure on the kidneys. This pressure, in turn, can cause crystals to form, resulting in kidney stones.

Urinary Tract Infections

If you suffer from frequent UTIs (urinary tract infection), this could be an indication of kidney stones. You should always consult your doctor if you suffer from any of its symptoms.

Kidney pain

Kidney stones will present a progressive daily pain that is significant and will also be accompanied by a severe cramping and fever. The pain tends to surround the first lumbar region and then begin to move toward the uterus with shooting pains to the genitals. Kidney stones while pregnant can indicate other issues and can often be misdiagnosed.

Blood in urine

During pregnancy, hormone levels increase which can cause the kidney stones to move more spontaneously. When kidney stones move, they cause damage to the surrounding tissue and can irritate the mucous membranes. This irritation can result in blood in the urine.

Pain while urinating

When the stones escape, they will cause tenderness in the area. This will be especially noticeable while urinating, which can cause sharp cutting pains that are acute.

Change in diet

When you are pregnant, it is best to postpone traditional treatment if you have kidney stones because of the side effects they can cause. Depending on the kidney stones that have formed, your doctor will prescribe a special diet to eat that can consist of:

• If the stones are urate, then you will need to limit the meat products and increase the plant-based foods and dairy products you consume.

• If the stones are calcium salts, you would increase your meat intake as well as fruit and cereals. Eggs, beans, milk and potatoes will need to be eliminated from your diet.

• If the stones are oxalic acid, then you will not be allowed to consume milk, eggs, beans or tomatoes.

Wait them out

When you have kidney stones while pregnant, most women choose to simply watch and wait for them to pass. They tend to increase their fluid and limit their calcium intake. To help manage the pain, Acetaminophen or Tylenol can help, but your doctor may prescribe additional medications if there is a risk of infection. In rare cases, surgery is necessary when there is an infection, severe pain or a risk of preterm labor.

Breaking up the stones

If the stones are not too large, a ureteroscopy may be performed. This can help break up the stones or rapidly drain the area surround the stone. This procedure is commonly used as a first resort approach at any stage during the pregnancy. It involves a thin tube or ureteroscope to be passed through the urinary tract, which allows the doctor to better diagnosis the type of stone and best treatment for them.

Tube or stent

This type of treatment involves placing a ureteral stent in the ureter which will help pass urine and some of the stone particles out of the body. This procedure is often highly successful and requires little to no anesthesia. The tubes are often replaced during the pregnancy, which may cause discomfort and some complications.

Yes, definitely. Try the following tips:

• Drinking plenty of fluids is one of the most effective ways to prevent kidney stones.

• If you have unusual pain in the abdominal region, you should always consult your doctor.

• Kidney stones while pregnant can be prevented by watching what you eat. Avoid or eliminate any foods that contain a high amount of monosodium chloride.

• Eat more foods that are rich in fiber, as well as fruits and vegetables that contain plenty of vitamins and minerals.

• Exercise is vital during pregnancy because it helps rid the body of harmful substances as well as keeps it healthy and strong.

• Taking a urine test prior to becoming pregnant can help prevent any life-threatening problems that kidney stones may pose. Ridding the body of smaller stones before they become larger can reduce any risk for mother and baby during pregnancy.