PREVALENCE OF ASYMPTOMATIC BACTERIURIA AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN AT A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL WITH ANTIBIOTIC SUSCEPTIBILITY PATTERNS.

Abstract

Background: Asymptomatic bacteriuria (ASB) is a common condition during pregnancy that may lead to serious maternal and fetal complications if untreated. Early detection through routine screening is essential to prevent progression to symptomatic urinary tract infections.

Objective: To determine the prevalence of ASB among pregnant women attending a tertiary care hospital and to analyze the bacterial profile and antibiotic susceptibility patterns.

Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 200 pregnant women attending the Obstetrics and Gynaecology OPD at Dr. BSKIMS, Kanpur. Midstream urine samples were collected and processed using standard microbiological techniques. Significant bacteriuria was defined as ≥10⁵ CFU/mL. Bacterial isolates were identified, and antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed according to CLSI guidelines.

Results: Of 200 urine samples, 24 (12%) showed significant bacteriuria, while 18 (9%) were contaminated. Gram-negative bacilli predominated (58.3%), with Escherichia coli as the most common isolate (50%), followed by Staphylococcus saprophyticus (21%) and Staphylococcus aureus (13%). ASB was most frequent in the third trimester (45.8%), in women aged 25–29 years (41.7%), and in multigravida women (62.5%). Antibiotic susceptibility revealed highest sensitivity to Imipenem, Nitrofurantoin, and Ceftriaxone, while Ampicillin and Cotrimoxazole showed high resistance.

Conclusion: The prevalence of ASB among pregnant women was 12%, with Escherichia coli as the leading pathogen. Routine antenatal screening and timely antibiotic therapy are essential to prevent maternal and fetal complications. Knowledge of local antibiotic susceptibility patterns can guide effective treatment.