Urinary tract infections in pregnancy

Abstract

Background. Urinary tract infections (UTI) are the most common infections during pregnancy. The feto-maternal complications linked to this pathology can be severe if untreated and the treatment has been a subject of interest hence the multiple drugs contraindications in pregnancy, the restraint panel of antibiotics that can be used and the antimicrobial resistance that is constantly increasing. The purpose of this article is to review the latest data from literature and guidelines regarding the best management of the urinary tract infections in pregnancy. Methods. It was undertaken a systematic electronic search for articles, reviews and guidelines using Cochrane Date Base, PubMed and the international protocols in use recommended by the Obstetrics and Gynecology societies (ACOG-American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, CNGOF – Collège National des Gynécologues et Obstétriciens Français, RCOG – Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists). Results and conclusions. Special consideration should be given to urinary tract infections developed during pregnancy because they are related to serious fetal and maternal complications. Routine screening is recommended and the antibiotic therapy properly individualized. Emotional impact on the future mothers is particularly important and non-pharmacologic prophylaxis should always be discussed at the begging of pregnancy. Future research should be focused on finding the actual mechanism of pathogenesis that link UTI and the complications they associate.