Mucus in urine is usually a normal finding, as mucus helps protect the urinary tract from infections and irritation. However, excessive or thick mucus, or changes in urine color or consistency, may be a sign of an underlying urinary or intestinal condition.
A urinalysis (UA) can confirm the presence of mucus and detect other abnormalities. Proper genital hygiene before collecting the sample (clean catch) helps prevent contamination and ensures accurate results.
Depending on the cause, mucus in urine may be linked to conditions like urinary tract infections, kidney stones, pregnancy, or even intestinal diseases. Treatment varies and may include antibiotics, hydration, or other targeted therapies prescribed by a doctor.
Main causes
The most common reasons for mucus in the urine include:
1. Normal mucus production
Mucus is a natural substance that the body produces to protect the urinary tract, helping to eliminate foreign invaders that can cause infection.
What to do: A mild to moderate amount of mucus that appears thin and clear is a normal finding. Urine tests that detect small amounts of mucus with no other abnormalities do not require any medical follow-up.
However, copious amounts of mucus, or mucus that is thick, cloudy or pus-like may be a sign of infection or another condition. If you notice these symptoms, it is important to see a gynecologist, urologist, or family doctor for evaluation and appropriate treatment.
2. Pregnancy
Mucus in the urine is common during pregnancy. The various hormonal changes in addition to nutrient or mineral losses through the urine can give the urine a cloudy appearance. Mucus production also increases in the later stages of pregnancy, and is a sign that the body is preparing for labor.
Also recommended: Mucus Plug: What it Looks Like & When Labor Will Start tuasaude.com/en/mucus-plugWhat to do: In most cases, an increase in vaginal discharge is normal during pregnancy. Changes in quantity, consistency, color or odor, however, should be reported to your OBGYN or midwife. Read more about what normal pregnancy discharge looks like.
3. UTIs
Mucus can also be present with urinary tract infections (UTIs), especially when the infection results in urethritis. In addition to mucus in the urine, some people may also notice symptoms like pain and burning with urination, urinary hesitancy, and a feeling of heaviness in the lower abdomen.
If you are having UTI symptoms, complete our online quiz to assess your risk for an active infection.
What to do: If you suspect you may have a UTI, you should see a healthcare provider as quickly as possible to confirm a diagnosis. Treatment usually involves the use of antibiotics. Check out other UTI medications that can be prescribed, as well as home remedies to try.
In addition, you should drink at least 2 L of water per day, and ensure you are cleansing the genital area from front to back to prevent the introduction of more bacteria into the urinary tract. Urinating after sex can also help to prevent new infections. These teas for UTI treatment may also be a great complement to your prescribed treatment.
4. STIs
Some sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can lead to excessive mucus production due to irritation and inflammation in the genital area. Some STIs can also result in symptoms like yellow, green, white or grey discharge, foul odor, pain and burning with urination, abdominal discomfort, and pain during sex.
Learn more about the most common STIs and how they are treated.
What to do: If you notice any signs or symptoms of an STI, you should see a healthcare provider as soon as possible. Once a diagnosis is confirmed, the correct treatment can be started. It is also important to notify your sexual partner(s) so that theyd can seek treatment, even if they do not have any symptoms.
5. Kidney stones
Kidney stones do not always present with symptoms, as they are able to be eliminated in the urine naturally. However, there are cases in which the stones can become stuck along the urinary tract. This triggers the kidneys to produce more mucus, which will help to lubricate the urinary tract and helpd get rid of the stone.
Stones that are stuck in the urinary tract can cause other symptoms like urinary frequency, lower back pain, difficulty urinating, nausea, vomiting and blood-tinged urine. Read more about the symptoms of kidney stones and what causes them.
What to do: If you notice any symptoms of a kidney stone, you should see a urologist to start treatment immediately. Treatment depends on the size of the stone. Small stones can be eliminated with increased water intake, while larger stones may require surgical removal.
6. Bladder cancer
Although it is rare, mucus in the urine can be a sign of bladder cancer. This mucus will often be accompanied by other symptoms, like blood in the urine, difficulty urinating, pain with urination, urinary frequency, abdominal pain, weight loss for no apparent reason, and fatigue.
See the other signs and symptoms of cancer that you should not ignore.
What to do: If you notice these symptoms, particularly unexpected weight loss and unexplained fatigue, you should see a healthcare provider urgently for assessment. The earlier any cancer is caught, the greater the chance of a cure.
7. Intestinal disease
Some intestinal diseases, like ulcerative colitis or irritable bowel syndrome, can cause increased mucus production in the gut. Excessive mucus can be eliminated through the stool or in the urine.
What to do: If you suspect a bowel disease, consult a gastroenterologist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Depending on the cause, treatment may include medications to slow disease progression or control diarrhea, along with vitamin supplements and dietary changes to reduce fatigue or prevent anemia.