These Are The 5 Most Common Kidney Health Issues Seen In Expectant Mothers

Pregnancy and kidney health: The period of pregnancy can be extremely special, but it is also wrought with challenges that can worry an expectant mother and spoil the experience for her. Doctors warn that pregnant women undergo several changes in their bodies that cause strain on various organs, particularly the kidneys, which are vital organs that help to filter out the waste from the body, balance fluids, and maintain blood pressure — all of which become even more critical during the pregnancy phase. According to health experts, warm and humid weather conditions in India can increase the risk of dehydration and poor maternal nutrition. As such, it becomes important to monitor maternal health and combat health risks before they turn severe.

Five Common Kidney Health Issues In Expectant Mothers

According to Dr Durga Damodharan, MBBS, MIRCGP, Dip in diabetes (UK), FAM, senior consultant family physician and diabetologist, Apollo Cradle & Children’s Hospital, Chennai – Karapakkam, these are the five main and most common kidney issues seen in pregnant women.

Preeclampsia And Hypertensive Disorders

Dr Damodharan says preeclampsia is a cause for both maternal and fetal complications. It affects nearly 5-8 per cent of pregnancies, and it mostly appears in the second trimester of pregnancy, distinguished by the sudden onset of proteinuria and high blood pressure (BP). “If it is detected early by antenatal screening and close surveillance, doctors can help prevent its progression to eclampsia or multi-organ dysfunction,” the expert says.

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

According to the doctor, this is one of the most common pregnancy complications, triggered by hormonal changes and pressure exerted by a growing uterus. “It can reduce bladder tone and slow urinary flow, creating a conducive environment for infections. If left untreated, UTIs can progress to pyelonephritis — a serious upper urinary tract infection that may cause preterm labour or sepsis,” the doctor warns, adding that these conditions can be prevented by taking proactive measures like regular urine culture screenings and timely antibiotic treatment.

Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)

Although AKI is less common, it can become a serious pregnancy complication, especially in rural and remote areas, Dr Damodharan warns. “It can cause preeclampsia, postpartum haemorrhage, sepsis, and unsafe abortion… The use of enhanced emergency obstetric and nephrology services can dramatically lower the risk,” she states.

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

This can put a pregnant woman at a higher risk of developing complications like preterm birth, intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), and deterioration in kidney function, says the expert. She goes on to say that many cases of mild-to-moderate CKD remain undiagnosed until pregnancy causes deterioration. “One must follow-up on serum creatinine, urine protein, and BP regularly. A multidisciplinary attention by nephrologists and obstetricians is required for better recovery of both the mother and her baby.”

Dehydration And Electrolyte Imbalances

This is another common health issue. Dehydration can reduce blood flow to the kidneys and increase disturbances in the level of major electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and magnesium, the doctor explains, adding that it can increase the risk of complications during pregnancy and delivery. “All of these factors can stress the pregnancy and increase the chance of the baby being born before 37 weeks (preterm).”