Wee sample - what are midwives checking for?

[wondering7777]

I'm 27 weeks pregnant and every time I've been to the midwife I've had to do a wee sample that they've tested then and there.

I think the midwife did mention what they were looking for once, but I wasn't paying attention! She's always just said that everything looks fine and has thrown it away. Does anyone know what they're testing for - and is it the same thing every time?

I'm just interested really!

Generally I think its for signs of infection... UTI, Sugars etc.
They usually test it with a dip stick, and if theres something questionable on the results, they will send it off for further testing.

There lots of things to look at when we test urine. Signs of an infection, glucose which can show up if you’re diabetic or not diagnosed, ketones which is where your body burns fat rather than glucose. Blood, your pH too. All sorts. I’m a nurse not a midwife btw.

Glucose, protein & urine infections

I had pre eclampsia and it showed up with protein in urine as well as high blood pressure. I also had a kidney infection.

UTIs as they can be asymptomatic in pregnancy but can cause trouble for you or baby. Protein - sign of pre eclampsia or other kidney issues. Sugar - gestational diabetes. Ketones also if diabtetes or other issues. Lots of stuff. They will usually very happily explain if you ask.

Protein in your urine which can be an indication of preeclampsia which can be really dangerous x

There are three main and very common problems they check your urine for - urinary tract infections (these are common and often have reduced symptoms during pregnancy), gestational diabetes and pre-eclampsia. To look for this they test for protein and glucose

We are mainly checking for protein which is a potential sign of pre eclampsia, however we also look for leucocytes & Nitrites (potential indication of a UTI) glucose (potential indication of diabetes) ketones (indicate dehydration) so you can get the right course of treatment.

www.nice.org.uk/guidance/cg62/ifp/chapter/Antenatal-appointments-schedule

Good to know, thanks!

Where I am, just protein to check for pre-eclampsia. They don't check for glucose or infection now as too many false positives. I think this depends on the area you are in, so you might be interested to ask your midwife next time you see her.