Asymptomatic bacteriuria during term pregnancy: Implications for the pregnant woman and newborn

Introduction: Urinary tract infection (UTI) is the most commonly encountered infection during pregnancy. If left untreated, it may pose significant health risks to newborns. Asymptomatic bacteriuria (ASB) can progress to cystitis or pyelonephritis in pregnant women and is associated with an increased risk of intrauterine growth retardation and low birth weight.Aims and Objectives: To screen term pregnant women for ASB, isolate bacterial strains, and ensure timely antibiotic treatment to reduce maternal and neonatal complications such as cystitis, pyelonephritis, and adverse neonatal outcomes.Materials and Methods: This prospective observational cohort study involved 258 pregnant women meeting inclusion criteria. Urine samples were cultured on CLED agar, incubated at 37°C for 48 hours, and analyzed for bacterial isolates and antibiotic sensitivity. Participants were divided into Group A (culture positive) and Group B (culture negative). Data regarding maternal and neonatal outcomes were collected.Results: Among the 258 women, 51 (19.8%) were culture positive. Escherichia coli was the most common isolate, followed by Klebsiella spp., CoNS, Staphylococcus aureus, Acinetobacter, and Pseudomonas spp. Antibiotic susceptibility varied among strains. Several maternal factors (e.g., hospitalization period, intrapartum/postpartum fever, antibiotic use) and neonatal outcomes (e.g., conjunctivitis, pneumonitis, NICU admission) showed significant differences between groups.Conclusion: Untreated ASB at term increases adverse outcomes in both mothers and newborns. Routine urine culture and sensitivity testing during antenatal care is recommended to facilitate early diagnosis and reduce complications.