How to manage urinary tract infections during pregnancy?

Question

Hello doctor,

I currently missed a period, 10 days to be exact. When taking a pregnancy test, the test turned positive within seconds. It is a faint line but still positive. I am currently taking Lexapro and might have a urinary tract infection.

Is there any way Lexapro could be giving me a false positive test?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through your query and understand your concern.

Lexapro is not known to cause false positive pregnancy test results. An infection like urinary tract infection (UTI) itself does not usually cause a false positive pregnancy test. However, if you have a kidney issue that is causing hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) elimination, that can give you a false negative result.

hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) is a hormone that is only produced during pregnancy or in rare medical conditions like certain tumors. Since your test turned positive quickly, even with a faint line, you are likely pregnant. A faint line still means a positive result because even small amounts of hCG will trigger the test.

You can repeat the test in a couple of days with first-morning urine to confirm. Consider a blood test (beta-hCG) for a more definitive answer. You can do an ultrasound to know how many weeks you are on.

If you do have a urinary tract infection, it is important to get treatment since UTI can pose risks in pregnancy. You can not have any antibiotics during pregnancy. A combination of Cefuroxime + Clavulanic acid can be used on pregnant women with UTIs. There are also other safe antibiotics. Go to a gynecologist and follow their instructions. Cranberry juice is also very good for UTI.

You should also let your psychiatrist know about your pregnancy. Escitalopram is sometimes used in pregnancy but there are some limitations.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.