Pregnancy brings many changes to a woman’s body, and one noticeable difference can be the colour of her urine.

While urine colour changes can occur due to various factors, they are often more noticeable during pregnancy because of heightened sensitivity to bodily changes.

In most cases, variations in urine colour are harmless, but in certain situations, they may signal a health issue.

Wondering why it occurs? And when to seek treatment for it?

This blog by Mykare Health will explore why urine colour changes during pregnancy, the different colours to watch for, possible causes, and tips to maintain healthy urine colour and hydration throughout pregnancy.

Why Urine Colour Changes During Pregnancy?

The colour of urine depends largely on hydration, diet, vitamin intake, and overall health. During pregnancy, several factors can influence these elements, leading to changes in urine colour.

Common causes for altered urine colour include

1. Increased Blood Volume and Kidney Function

Pregnancy significantly increases blood volume, which in turn affects kidney function. As kidneys work harder to filter waste from the blood, they produce more urine, which can sometimes change in concentration and colour.

2. Dehydration

Pregnant women need more water than usual to support the increased blood volume, amniotic fluid, and foetal development. If hydration is insufficient, urine can become more concentrated, resulting in a darker yellow colour.

3. Prenatal Vitamins and Supplements

Vitamins and minerals, particularly B vitamins and folic acid, are essential during pregnancy but can alter urine colour, often turning it bright yellow or even slightly orange. This change is usually harmless and temporary.

4. Dietary Changes

Certain foods can change urine colour, as pregnant women may consume a wider variety of foods and nutrients to support their baby’s growth. For example, beetroot can cause pinkish urine, while asparagus may impart a greenish tint and unique odour.

5. Hormonal Changes

Pregnancy hormones can affect the kidneys and urinary tract, occasionally causing mild changes in urine colour. These hormonal fluctuations typically have a minimal impact but can make other factors, like hydration levels, more noticeable in urine colour.

6. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

UTIs are common during pregnancy due to hormonal and anatomical changes. One sign of a UTI is cloudy, dark, or even reddish-coloured urine, sometimes accompanied by discomfort, a strong odour, or a frequent urge to urinate.

7. Liver Health

Pregnancy can sometimes impact liver function, resulting in conditions like cholestasis, where bile flow is impaired. If this occurs, urine may appear dark or tea-coloured and may indicate an underlying issue needing medical attention.

What Different Urine Colours Mean in Pregnancy?

Urine colour can provide clues to hydration, diet, and health. Here’s a breakdown of common urine colours and what they might mean for pregnant women

1. Pale Yellow or Clear

Pale yellow to almost clear urine is generally a sign of proper hydration. This colour indicates that the body is well-hydrated, and waste is diluted in the urine. It’s ideal to aim for light yellow urine as it suggests adequate water intake without overhydration.

2. Bright Yellow

Bright yellow urine is often a result of prenatal vitamins, especially B vitamins and riboflavin (B2), which are water-soluble and easily excreted by the body. This colour is usually harmless and doesn’t indicate any underlying health issue.

3. Dark Yellow or Amber

Dark yellow or amber-coloured urine is typically a sign of dehydration. When the body doesn’t receive enough water, urine becomes more concentrated with waste products, leading to a darker colour. Pregnant women should aim to drink more water to maintain adequate hydration.

4. Orange

In some cases, orange urine may be caused by vitamin supplements or certain foods like carrots or sweet potatoes, which are high in beta-carotene. However, if accompanied by other symptoms such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, it may signal a liver issue and should be checked by a healthcare provider.

5. Pink or Reddish

A pink or reddish hue in the urine may come from eating foods like beets, blackberries, or rhubarb. However, it can also indicate the presence of blood, which may be due to a UTI, kidney stones, or other conditions. Blood in the urine should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out infection or other concerns.

6. Cloudy or Milky White

Cloudy or milky urine can result from increased mucus, a UTI, or the presence of phosphate crystals. Cloudiness alone may not be concerning, but if it’s accompanied by a foul odour, discomfort, or pain, it may suggest an infection that needs medical attention.

7. Dark Brown or Tea-coloured

Dark brown or tea-coloured urine can sometimes result from certain medications or foods. However, if this colour persists, it could indicate liver or kidney issues, such as cholestasis of pregnancy or hepatitis. This type of urine colour change warrants a consultation with a healthcare provider.

Maintaining Healthy Urine Colour During Pregnancy

Keeping urine colour within the light yellow range can help confirm that the body is well-hydrated and generally healthy. Here are some tips for maintaining healthy urine colour during pregnancy

1. Stay Hydrated

Aim to drink around 8-10 glasses of water daily. Hydration needs may vary based on climate, activity level, and individual needs, so adjust accordingly.

2. Monitor Vitamin Intake

Take prenatal vitamins as prescribed, but be aware that certain vitamins can affect urine colour. If the colour change is drastic or concerning, consult your healthcare provider for reassurance.

3. Include Hydrating Foods

Foods like watermelon, oranges, cucumbers, and strawberries are rich in water and can help support hydration. Including these in your diet adds nutrients and fluids beneficial for pregnancy.

4. Limit Certain Foods

If you notice a colour change after eating certain foods like beets or berries, consider moderating intake to see if the colour returns to normal. These foods are safe but can temporarily change urine colour.

5. Urinate Frequently

Holding urine can increase the risk of UTIs, which are common during pregnancy. Regular urination helps flush out bacteria and supports kidney health.

6. Practise Good Hygiene

Maintaining good hygiene, especially around the genital area, helps prevent infections. Wipe from front to back and avoid using scented products that may disrupt the area’s natural balance.

When to Seek Medical Advice

While urine colour changes are often harmless, certain signs may indicate an issue that requires medical attention. Pregnant women should contact their healthcare provider if they experience

• Persistent dark or tea-coloured urine

• Blood in the urine, particularly if it’s accompanied by pain

• Strong-smelling, cloudy urine that may suggest an infection

• Yellowing of the skin or eyes, which could signal a liver issue

• Pain or burning during urination

It’s essential to address these symptoms early to prevent complications and maintain both maternal and foetal health.