A pregnant woman showing blood and/or nitrates in her urine is likely suffering from which condition?

The presence of blood and/or nitrates in a pregnant woman's urine is indicative of a urinary tract infection (UTI). Nitrates are typically produced by the bacterial metabolism of nitrates found in the urine, and when present, they suggest a bacterial infection. Additionally, blood in urine, known as hematuria, can also be associated with UTIs as inflammation and irritation in the urinary tract occur.

In contrast, essential hypertension is characterized by elevated blood pressure and does not directly cause these urinary findings. Gestational diabetes affects glucose metabolism and does not typically present with blood or nitrates in the urine. Pneumonia, a respiratory condition, would not influence urinary parameters in this manner. Therefore, the combination of blood and/or nitrates in the urine primarily points to a urinary tract infection as the underlying condition affecting the pregnant woman.