Prevalence and characteristics of urinary tract infections in pregnant women: a focus on age, employment, and hygiene practices

BACKGROUND: Urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the most common infections in pregnancy. UTI includes asymptomatic and symptomatic infections of the bladder. UTIs among pregnant women must be treated with antibiotics because of the risk of health complications. This study aimed to determine the characteristics of pregnant women with UTI seeking treatment at public health centers in Makassar, Indonesia.METHODS: Demographic data of pregnant women with symptoms of UTI were collected and analyzed.RESULTS: The results showed that the prevalence of UTI was highest among pregnant women who were not employed, were in their second trimester, did not routinely clean the feminine area, and had a history of having sexual intercourse