Asymptomatic Bacteriuria In Pregnant Women : A Community Survey In Ushafa

Abstract

Background: Urinary tract infections are the most common bacterial infections in pregnancy. Untreated asymptomatic bacteriuria can lead to symptomatic urinary tract infections (UTI) in pregnancy with adverse maternal and perinatal effects. This was a community-based survey in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria which aimed to determine the prevalence, risk factors, etiologic agents of asymptomatic bacteriuria and antibiotic sensitivity among pregnant women. Methodology: This was a cross-sectional study in which 200 pregnant women with no clinical suggestion of UTI were recruited. Clean catch midstream urine samples were collected from each participant into sterile universal containers and subjected to microscopy, culture and sensitivity testing. A standard microbiological technique was used in the identification of isolates. Result: A total of 59 pregnant women (29.5%) had asymptomatic bacteriuria. There was statistical significance in the prevalence of asymptomatic bacteriuria with respect to age and social class (P < 0.05), while trimester and parity did not show any significant difference (P > 0.05). Escherichia coli was the most prevalent organism followed by Staphylococcus aureus. The fluoroquinolones were the most sensitive antibiotics, while Amoxicillin/Clavulanic acid and Co-trimoxazole were the most resisted. Conclusion: The prevalence of asymptomatic bacteriuria among pregnant women in Ushafa community was higher than what has been found in most Nigerian settings. Hence, it is suggested that advocacy programs be instituted to urge pregnant women to access antenatal services and a policy to screen and treat all pregnant women is worth considering so as to avoid the complications associated with asymptomatic bacteriuria.