Published Paper Details:

Background: Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is one of the most common medical complications during pregnancy and is associated with adverse maternal and fetal outcomes if left untreated. Physiological and anatomical changes during pregnancy increase the susceptibility of antenatal women to UTIs. Objectives: 1. To assess the prevalence of urinary tract infection among antenatal women attending selected hospitals of Safedabad, Barabanki, Uttar Pradesh. 2. To identify the risk factors associated with urinary tract infection among antenatal women. 3. To determine the association between urinary tract infection and selected socio-demographic variables of antenatal women. 4. To determine the association between urinary tract infection and selected obstetric variables of antenatal women. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 100 antenatal women attending selected hospitals of Safedabad, Barabanki, Uttar Pradesh. A non-probability convenience sampling technique was used. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire to assess socio-demographic variables and risk factors, along with urine routine examination and culture reports. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The prevalence of UTI among antenatal women was found to be 28%. Common risk factors identified were poor perineal hygiene (64%), inadequate fluid intake (58%), previous history of UTI (42%), multiparity (36%), anemia (48%), and sexual activity during pregnancy without adequate hygiene (31%). A significant association was found between UTI and gestational age, parity, personal hygiene practices, and anemia status (p < 0.05). Conclusion: UTI is prevalent among antenatal women and is strongly associated with modifiable risk factors. Early screening, health education, and promotion of hygienic practices can significantly reduce the burden of UTI during pregnancy.