Lower Urinary tract Infection in Pregnant Women: Frequency and Etiology in a Family Medicine Unit in Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico

Abstract

Objective: To determine the frequency and etiology of lower urinary tract infection (LUTI) in pregnant patients. Methods: Retrospective study of clinical records of pregnant patients diagnosed with lower LUTI who sought care at Family Medicine Unit No. 16 in Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico in 2022. The variables studied were: age, number of pregnancies, trimester of LUTI detection, treatment provided, pathogen of the infection, and criteria for referral to secondary care. Results: A total of 570 records of pregnant women who attended outpatient clinics were reviewed; of which 230 met the inclusion criteria. The frequency of LUTI in pregnant women was 40.3% (230/570). The following predominated: age 27 years, first pregnancy, E. coli as a microorganism isolated in the urine culture, amoxicillin as treatment and in 72.1% no criteria were specified for referral to the secondary care level. Conclusions: Primigravid patients aged 27 years who were in their first trimester of pregnancy were the most susceptible to lower urinary tract infections. Adequate treatment should be offered to prevent perinatal complications.