A client states, I have to go to the bathroom every five minutes during pregnancy. Which explanation should the nurse provide?

• A. The growing uterus is putting pressure on the bladder.
• B. Bladder capacity increases during pregnancy.
• C. During pregnancy a woman is especially sensitive to body functions.
• D. The client may have a bladder or kidney infection.

Answer: (A)

A frequent urge to urinate during pregnancy is mainly caused by the enlarging uterus pressing on the bladder. As the uterus grows, it rises into the abdomen and compresses the bladder, which lowers the bladder’s functional capacity and triggers more frequent voiding. This is a normal physiological change in pregnancy, often more noticeable as gestation progresses. Bladder capacity does not increase; in fact, it’s reduced by the pressure from the uterus. While a bladder or kidney infection can cause frequency, the typical explanation for this symptom in pregnancy is mechanical pressure from the uterus rather than infection, though any accompanying symptoms should be evaluated.