Published Paper Details:

Background: Urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the most frequently encountered infections during pregnancy and poses serious risks to both mother and fetus if left untreated. Early identification of risk factors is essential for prevention and effective management. Objectives: 1. To assess the incidence of urinary tract infection among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in selected rural hospitals of Indore district, Madhya Pradesh. 2. To identify the associated factors of urinary tract infection among pregnant women. 3. To determine the association between urinary tract infection and selected socio-demographic variables of pregnant women. 4. To determine the association between urinary tract infection and selected obstetric variables of pregnant women. Methods: A hospital-based descriptive study was conducted among 120 pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in selected rural hospitals of Indore district, Madhya Pradesh Participants were selected using convenience sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and laboratory urine examination reports. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for data analysis. Results: The incidence of urinary tract infection was found to be 26.7%. Major associated factors included poor perineal hygiene (61%), inadequate water intake (55%), anemia (46%), previous UTI history (40%), and multiparity (34%). Significant association was observed between UTI and gestational age, hemoglobin level, and hygiene practices (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Urinary tract infection remains a common health problem among pregnant women. Strengthening antenatal screening and educating women about preventive measures can significantly reduce maternal and fetal complications.