Does the colour of urine change during early pregnancy? Does the colour of urine become darker? Is it okay to have a change in urine colour during pregnancy? If you have any of these questions and more, you will find these answers and explanations in this article.
Firstly, it is important to monitor your urine when you are expecting because it may show signs and symptoms of health-related issues. Moreover, urine colour changes can confirm pregnancy. Therefore, performing urine tests frequently is essential.
Colour Of Urine In Early Pregnancy
Normally, the color of a healthy person's urine will range from a very light, almost transparent yellow to a slightly darker shade of yellow. However, this change can be more pronounced during pregnancy. It can range from an intense bright yellow to a darker shade that resembles orange-yellow.
The pigment urochrome, also known as urobilin, causes the colour of urine. As the body breaks down haemoglobin from dead red blood cells, it produces urobilin. Its appearance will depend on the consistency of your urine. A diluted urine (when you are hydrated) will have lighter pigment. However, if you have concentrated urine, the pigment will be darker.
In addition to this, there are a number of factors that affect the colour of your urine during pregnancy. Your kidneys undergo profound changes during pregnancy. The colour of urine can also change as a result of changes in diet during pregnancy and the additional intake of vitamins and medicines prescribed to a pregnant woman.
Why Do Pregnant Women Urinate More Often?
Pregnant women go through various changes in their urine during pregnancy, such as urinating more frequently etc. The reason for this change is the hormone hCG produced and released after the embryo's implantation in the uterus. As a result, pregnant women urinate more often than usual.
Moreover, in the course of pregnancy, the blood circulation volume increases and approximately 25 percent of it is transported to the kidneys. Consequently, there is a significant increase in the amount of fluid processed through the kidneys, which then collects in the bladder.
The Relationship Between The Colour Of Your Urine And Your Health In Pregnancy:
The odour and colour of your urine in pregnancy can indicate your health as a pregnant woman. For example, if your urine looks more concentrated and darker in colour, you are likely dehydrated. Generally, pregnant women are advised to drink more water to stay hydrated and fresh.
Urine colour will help you identify if you are drinking enough water and fluids. Other reasons you may be dehydrated include morning sickness and hyperemesis gravidarum in particular (severe morning sickness), which can cause vomiting and can also lead to dehydration.
Additionally, when you are pregnant due to the pregnancy hormones, the smell of urine may change. A strong urine odour may show a urinary tract infection. However, women may be more aware of the naturally occurring ammonia-like pungent urine smell during pregnancy because of their heightened sense of smell.
Blood In Urine, Is It Safe?
If your urine colour changes to pink, brown or red or spot blood in your urine, it is crucial to consult a doctor. Therefore, no, blood in urine may not be safe as it’s not typical.
Apart from this, some women may experience light implantation bleeding at the very beginning of their pregnancy, which is not necessarily a sign of a problem. Women may also experience light bleeding after sex, an internal exam, or a pap smear. Blood in the urine can also be a sign of an infection of the vagina or cervix.
Outlook
Lastly, frequent urine tests and doctor visits are essential, especially during early pregnancy, to ensure that you are in good health. Furthermore, pay close attention to your urine colour and smell to rule out any potential infections early on.
