What does Protein in Urine indicate?

[littlebeagle]

Okay, so what does protein in the urine indicate? My OB gave me a little pamphlet-type book to keep where they write my readings for each appt (blood pressure, urine results, etc.). I was looking at it today and noticed all of the appts said "neg" (negative) for the protein in the urine, but my appt yesterday and my appt 3wks ago both said "lt" (which I can only assume means "light". Either that, or it is 1+ (one plus/positive), which I doubt). Anyhoo, So what does protein in the urine indicate? Not too worried about it; just wondering what it means. I would've asked the Dr, but I didn't think of the question until now. Thanks. :innocent

[Chanley]

I THINK it means taht your kidneys are not functioning as well as they should and they are spilling protein into your urinary tract.

I THINK that is what it means. I am sure gossamer has more info.

I would make sure I was eating properly if that is the case.

www.blueribbonbaby.org

[amydidit]

It is a measure of kidney function and protein in the urine can be an indicator of pre-eclampsia, but I believe it has to be in conjunction with other symptoms.

[pamamidwife]

It more than likely means you're a bit dehydrated. Protein in the urine is a LATE sign of pre-eclampsia and is only worrisome when accompanied by high blood pressure.

[littlebeagle]

My BP has been normal and consistent, so I guess I should be drinking some more water. I know I haven't been drinking as much as I had been. Thanks. :thumb

[tsfairy]

At my m/w appt yesterday, she recorded the protein in my urine as 1+. She explained that it was most likely do to dehydration and also not eating enough protein.

[littlebeagle]

Well that sounds silly!! You're not eating enough protein, so it's in your urine! :LOL You'd think it'd be the other way around... Like you have too much so that'd be why it'd be in your urine. :LOL But then again, I'm not the biggest health expert.

Anyhoo- what your mw told you lines up with my diet. I havent been drinking as much water lately and haven't had as much protein as I usually do.
You'd think they'd tell me to change something, but they didn't mention anything. :irked:

[Rainbowbird]

I have had trace protein several times but doctors have told me it is common and not a problem unless other symptoms are present, like hbp, etc.

[gossamer]

trace protein in the urine is quite common in pregnant women. Dr.s usually don't get too worried until you are dumping 3+ or 4+. Protein in the urine by itself in trace amounts, is probably not anything to get too worried about. BUt if you have any other pre-eclampsia symptoms likebloodpressure 20 to 30 points above your resting normal, headache, swelling of the upper body, pain under the ribs, visual disturbances, nose bleeds or decreased urine output, among others, please see your healthcare provider. Hope that is helpful.
Gossamer