What are they testing for in monthly urine...

What exactly do OBs test for in your monthly urine specimen? I ask b/c I saw in my chart that she had +2 next to the results and neg for every other month. She didn't say anything to me about it. What is it they are looking at and should she have said something?

Re: What are they testing for in monthly urine...

they are testing for protein in the urine.

I know that.

IDK what else.

you should ask about it when you are there next time. When she said "you passed the urine test" i said "what are you testing for?" and she said protein. so i'm assuming its the same for you. but IDK.

Re: What are they testing for in monthly urine...

Mine have never said anything to me about it, but from what I understand it is protein in the urine..

Re: What are they testing for in monthly urine...

sugar, protien, keytone & bacteria


http://www.americanpregnancy.org/prenataltesting/urinetest.html

A urine test is a routine test used by your healthcare provider as part of your prenatal care. Although urine tests are used in screening for pregnancy, this article is discussing urine tests as part of your routine prenatal care.

How is a urine test performed?

Your healthcare provider will ask you to collect a small sample of clean, midstream urine in a sterile plastic cup. Chemically prepared testing strips are dipped into your sample of urine to screen for certain indicators. More in-depth analysis may be done by having your urine sample assessed by a laboratory.

When are urine tests performed?

A urine test should be expected during your first prenatal exam and then at least periodically in future prenatal visits. It would be normal for your healthcare provider to monitor your urine during each visit.

What does the urine test look for?

A urine tests is used to assess bladder or kidney infections, diabetes, dehydration and preeclampsia by screening for high levels of sugars, proteins, ketones and bacteria. High levels of sugars may suggest gestational diabetes, which may develop around the 20th week of pregnancy. Higher levels of protein may suggest a possible urinary tract infection, or kidney disease. Preeclampsia may be a concern if higher levels of protein are found later in pregnancy, combined with high blood pressure.

What can urine test results reveal?

Sugar: Sugar in your urine does not mean you are diabetic. It is normal for your kidneys to leak sugar from your bloodstream into your urine. This is particularly expected if you eat a large meal or drink a really sweet beverage. You should be tested for gestational diabetes if:
Consistent levels of sugar (glucose) are detected and/or
You feel tired or lethargic
You are consistently thirsty
You are losing weight

Protein: Protein found in your urine indicates a problem in kidney function such as an infection. If protein is found in your urine late in pregnancy this may be a sign of preeclampsia. You healthcare provider will examine you for preeclampsia if:
Consistent levels of sugar (glucose) are detected and
You have high blood pressure
You have swelling in your face and hands

Ketones: Ketones occur when your body is breaking down fats instead of carbohydrates for energy. High levels of ketones indicate that you are not getting enough to eat or if you are dehydrated.

Bacteria: Bacteria in your urine is a sign of a urinary tract infection. Your healthcare provider may retrieve a second urine sample collected through a catheter before determining the type of antibiotics needed.