Publications

Abstract

Background: Urinary tract infections (UTI) are common during pregnancy and if left untreated can lead to adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. Pyuria on routine urine microscopy is suggestive of UTI. Objective: To estimate the prevalence of pyuria among pregnant women attending a rural maternity hospital. Methodology: A cross sectional study was conducted at a rural maternity hospital in Solur, Ramanagara District of Karnataka during January to March 2014, with 150 women taken by convenience sampling. A pretested semi structured questionnaire was administered to pregnant women irrespective of period of gestation, which included socio-demographic details, obstetric history, symptoms of UTI and Reproductive Tract Infection. Urine microscopic examination was also done. Results: Of the 150 pregnant women who participated in the study, the prevalence of pyuria was 50%. 27% of the women had asymptomatic pyuria. The factors significantly associated with pyuria in pregnancy were burning micturition, dysuria and lower abdominal pain. Conclusion: The prevalence of pyuria among pregnant women availing regular antenatal services at a rural maternity hospital was found to be high (50%) with a large proportion of asymptomatic pyuria. It is recommended that Urine Microscopy should be included in routine antenatal care for all pregnant women in rural setting also.