Urinary proteins during pregnancy: standards, anomalies, and possible consequences

Why test for protein in urine during pregnancy?

It is recommended that pregnant women undergo urine protein testing at least 9 times during their pregnancy: once during the first trimester, three times during the second trimester, and at every scheduled visit to the doctor during the third trimester. This analysis is necessary to monitor the mother's health and quickly detect any potential complications. Deviations in protein levels may signal the risk of pre-eclampsia and eclampsia - serious conditions that threaten both the mother and the fetus.

Normal protein levels in urine during pregnancy

The body of a pregnant woman undergoes significant changes, and the burden on the kidneys increases. That is why the allowable norms for protein in urine differ from the standard:

• In natural conception:
  • At the beginning of pregnancy - up to 0.3 g/l.
  • At the end of pregnancy, up to 0.5 g/l.
• In vitro fertilization (IVF):
  • At the beginning of pregnancy - up to 0.4 g/l. At the end of pregnancy - up to 0.6 g/l.
  • At the end of pregnancy - up to 0.6 g/l.
• IVF with donor egg:
  • At the beginning of the period - up to 0.5 g/l.
  • At the end of pregnancy - up to 0.7 g/l.
• IVF with double donation (egg and sperm):
  • At the beginning of pregnancy - up to 0.6 g/l.
  • At the end of pregnancy - up to 0.8 g/l.

If the protein level exceeds the allowed values, it is necessary to consult a doctor and undergo additional examinations, including blood tests for creatinine and urea, a kidney ultrasound, and blood pressure monitoring.

High protein levels in urine during pregnancy (proteinuria)

Proteinuria is a condition in which the level of protein in the urine is higher than normal. Critical values are considered to be indicators above 0.5 g/l at the end of pregnancy, and values exceeding 3 g/l may indicate a severe form of pre-eclampsia, requiring immediate medical intervention.

Particularly alarming symptoms include

• High blood pressure (hypertension);
• Swelling;
• Severe toxicosis.

Proteinuria against a background of hypertension and edema significantly increases the risk of complications such as hypertension and edema:

• Pre-eclampsia - disturbances in the kidneys, liver, blood vessels, brain, and development of fetal-placental insufficiency.
• Eclampsia is a convulsive syndrome that can lead to kidney and liver failure, pulmonary edema, asphyxia, and stroke.

Possible causes of proteinuria in pregnant women

An increase in protein in the urine is not always associated with pathology. A temporary increase in protein levels may be due to:

• An unbalanced diet
• Physical overexertion;
• Stress;
• Excessive cold.

However, some non-pregnancy-related diseases may also cause proteinuria:

• Diabetes - damage to the renal tubules reduces protein filtration.
• Pyelonephritis and other infections - inflammation of the kidneys promotes protein leakage.
• Myeloma - disruption of protein production in the body.
• Rhabdomyolysis - muscle degradation leading to protein overload in the kidneys.
• Intoxication - exposure to toxins and medications can disrupt kidney function.

Early diagnosis and prompt treatment of these conditions are extremely important for the health of the future mother.

Decreased protein levels in urine during pregnancy (hypoproteinemia)

Hypoproteinemia is a decrease in protein levels in urine below normal. Possible causes include:

• Significant physical activity;
• Lack of protein in the diet (famine, mono-diets);
• Dehydration.

A decrease in protein levels may also be the consequence of severe pathologies:

• Acute infections;
• Liver disease;
• Oncological diseases;
• Anemia;
• Significant blood loss.

A decrease in protein weakens the immunity of the pregnant woman, making her more vulnerable to infections. To prevent the negative effects of hypoproteinemia, it is recommended to

• Include a sufficient amount of protein in the diet;
• Maintain hydration;
• Avoid excessive physical exertion;
• Monitor general health under the supervision of a doctor.

Where to get a protein screening test during pregnancy?

You can get tested at the "Natuvitro" clinic. After receiving the results, it is possible to consult obstetrician-gynecologists. To make an appointment, fill out the form in the "Contacts" section of the clinic's website.