A clinical study on asymptomatic bacteriuria in pregnant women

Background: Asymptomatic bacteriuria (ASB) is very common in pregnancy, the prevalence being around 2-10% of all pregnancies. Pregnant women have a higher risk of urinary tract infection (UTI) compared to the general population due to the multiple structural and functional changes which occur in the renal system during pregnancy. Objectives: The present study has been undertaken to see the prevalence of asymptomatic bacteriuria, its causative microorganisms, their sensitivity to antibiotics and overall maternal outcome. Materials and methods: This was a cross-sectional observational hospital-based study done at our tertiary care centre from January 2018 to December 2018. The sample size chosen was 800 pregnant women. The infection detected was treated and followed up throughout the pregnancy. Details regarding gestational age at the time of delivery, mode of delivery and any other significant intrapartum events were noted. Results: In our study ASB is a common bacterial infection, complicating pregnancy with a high prevalence of 16.5%. The prevalence is more common in multigravida and women with anaemia and low socioeconomic status. ASB was found to be significantly associated with PPROM, preterm, anaemia and IUGR (P value < 0.05). In this study, gram-negative organisms (84%) were the most commonest isolated organism, and E Coli was isolated in 83 cases (63%). Meropenem and nitrofurantoin were found most sensitive antibacterial drugs. Conclusion: Early recognition and prompt antimicrobial treatment can reduce adverse maternal outcomes. Hence screening with urine culture and treatment with an antimicrobial agent according to sensitivity test should be incorporated as a routine in antenatal care.