Frequent urination in pregnancy can start very early, often as soon as the first few weeks after conception, around 4 to 6 weeks into pregnancy. This early symptom is mainly caused by hormonal changes, particularly higher levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and progesterone, which increase blood flow to the kidneys and pelvic area, resulting in more urine production. Later in pregnancy, the growing uterus puts pressure on the bladder, causing increased urgency and frequency especially in the third trimester. Frequent urination may continue throughout pregnancy and generally subsides after childbirth.

Early Pregnancy and Hormones

• Frequent urination can start as early as 2 to 3 weeks after conception, sometimes even before a missed period, due to hormone-induced increased blood flow to the pelvic region and kidneys.

• The hormone hCG and progesterone play key roles in this early onset.

Physical Changes During Pregnancy

• As the uterus grows, it presses on the bladder, reducing its capacity and causing more frequent urination, especially from the second trimester onward.

• In the later stages of pregnancy, around week 35 and onward, the baby's head descends into the pelvis, putting additional pressure on the bladder and increasing trips to the bathroom.

Duration of Frequent Urination

• The symptom generally lasts through the pregnancy, easing after childbirth when bladder pressure decreases.

If there is pain, burning, or signs of infection accompanying frequent urination, medical advice should be sought as it may indicate a urinary tract infection.