FREQUENCY OF URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS IN PATIENTS PRESENTING WITH PRETERM LABOR

Abstract

Objective: To determine the frequency of urinary tract infections (UTIs) in women with preterm labor. Methods: A total of 170 patients with a diagnosis of preterm labor were recruited in this cross-sectional study from 01 June 2024 to 01 December 2025. Women of any parity, with a gestational age of 22 to 37 weeks, and aged 18 to 40 were included. Urine samples were collected from each female patient using sterilized containers and sent to the hospital laboratory for a comprehensive urinalysis. Results: The average age was 27.5±5.4 years. Regarding residence, 45 participants (26.5%) were from urban areas, while the majority, 125 participants (73.5%), reside in rural settings. In terms of parity, 58 participants (34.1%) were primipara, while 112 participants (65.9%) were multipara.  36 participants (21.2%) reported having a history of UTIs.  Conclusion: In women experiencing preterm labor, the occurrence of urinary tract infections (UTIs) was recorded at a notable 27.65%. To address this issue, we strongly advocate for the establishment of regular UTI screening protocols for all pregnant women.