QuestionMy ob/gyn told me my baby has inflamed kidney passagways from his bladder to his kidneys. I was wondering if this is a common thing, and what causes it. Will my baby be ok, and what kind of treatments are available?
AnswerDear Elizabeth,
These passageways are called the ureters. It's important to know whether the doctor has determined if the baby's urinary flow is being obstructed in any way. This can cause a problem with kidney function later on.
Unfortunately, a cause for what is seen on ultrasound as inflammation may not be known until birth. It could be a dilated ureter (hydroureter) which can happen due to the nerve plexus not forming properly, the muscle in the distal ureter being woven a bit funny, or the ureterovesical valve not working correctly. It can be a slight infection due to a various number of causes. You may just not know until birth and at that point they can assess the baby and treat the condition appropriately. Different causes will require different treatments.
Until then, I'm sure your doctor will be watching the baby's condition and will monitor your amniotic fluid volume. The thing is, you can't stress over something you have no control over right now. Try to relax and enjoy your pregnancy as much as possible. With the ultrasound technology, it gives us the advantage of being a bit more prepared for things to come, but it also tends to cause anxiety about things we can do nothing about.
I hope this has helped you and answered your question. Please don't hesitate to write again with questions in the future. I wish you and your family a happy Christmas season.
Brenda
