Risk Factors and Prevention Strategies for Recurrent Lower Urinary Tract Infections in Pregnant Women: A Literature Review

Mutiara Andjani Arsyad; Amelia  Abdullah; Asrini  Safitri; M.  Hamsah; Abadi  Aman

Mutiara Andjani Arsyad Students of the Medical Profession Study Program, Universitas Muslim Indonesia, Makassar, Indonesia
Amelia Abdullah Departement of Obstetrics and Gynaekology, Faculty of Medicine, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, Indonesia
Asrini Safitri Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Muslim Indonesia, Makassar, Indonesia
M. Hamsah Departement of Obstetrics and Gynaekology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Muslim Indonesia, Makassar, Indonesia
Abadi Aman 5Departement of Obstetrics and Gynaekology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Muslim Indonesia, Makassar, Indonesia

Keywords: Urinary Tract Infection, Pregnancy, Risk Factors, Recurrence, UTI Prevention

Abstract

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) in pregnant women are among the most common health problems and may lead to serious complications for both the mother and the fetus. Physiological changes during pregnancy increase the risk of infection as well as recurrence of UTIs. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of risk factors and effective preventive strategies is essential. This study aims to analyze the risk factors and preventive measures for recurrent UTIs in pregnant women based on current literature. This study employed a narrative review approach by examining various scientific articles obtained from databases including PubMed, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, Garuda, and Neliti. The literature search was conducted using keywords relevant to the research topic. Results of the research showed that the main risk factors for UTIs in pregnant women include hormonal and anatomical changes, a history of previous UTIs, poor personal hygiene, sexual activity, and medical conditions such as diabetes mellitus. In addition, asymptomatic bacteriuria plays an important role in increasing the risk of complications. Effective preventive measures include routine screening, culture-based treatment of urine samples, health education, and the implementation of clean and healthy lifestyle practices. The occurrence and recurrence of UTIs in pregnant women are multifactorial in nature, requiring a comprehensive management approach to reduce risks and improve maternal and fetal health outcomes.

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