Prevalence And Risk Factors Of Asymptomatic Bacteriuria Among Pregnant Women In A Tertiary Care Hospital, Chengalpattu District, Tamil Nadu

INTRODUCTION: Asymptomatic bacteriuria (ASB) has been associated with adverse outcomes for both mothers and newborns, making early screening and treatment—particularly during the first trimester—crucial. Despite this, the rate of ASB occurrence in the second and third trimesters remains unclear. If left untreated, ASB can lead to serious complications for both the mother and fetus. These risks include anemia, acute pyelonephritis, repeated infections, preterm labor, sepsis, and, in severe cases, maternal death. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: To determine the prevalence of asymptomatic bacteriuria in pregnant women in low socio-economic status, identify the risk factors associated with developing asymptomatic bacteriuria during pregnancy and assess the effectiveness of antibiotic treatment for asymptomatic bacteriuria in pregnancy including the impact of reducing the risk of developing symptomatic urinary tract infection. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study for a period of six months with the pregnant women attending the department of obstetrics. The study participants were included based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Bacterial identification was carried out using routine laboratory methods, and culture results were classified as either significant or insignificant based on established criteria. RESULTS: Among the 50 patients studied, most were aged 26–35, followed by those aged 36–40. About half were in their first trimester, and 75% were multigravida. Around 34% had asymptomatic bacteriuria despite showing no symptoms. Nitrofurantoin showed the highest antibiotic sensitivity among the isolated organisms, making it the most effective drug in the study. Amikacin followed with strong sensitivity, while norfloxacin was also effective but to a lesser degree. CONCLUSION: Pregnancy raises the risk of asymptomatic bacteriuria progressing to symptoms, leading to serious maternal and fetal complications. Routine urine culture is advised before conception or in the first trimester, with follow-ups each trimester. Detected cases should be promptly treated and monitored.