Predictors of Urinary Tract Infection during Pregnancy. Abstract, ExecutiveSummary and Dissertation

摘要

Urinary tract infections (UTI) are common during pregnancy and can have seriousmaternal/fetal health implications. Infections that spread to the kidney (pyelonephritis) are one of the most serious pregnancy complications and typically require hospitalization. Using a cohort of deliveries at three North Carolina hospitals during 1990-1993, this study identified demographic, behavior, and medical history predictors of UTI during pregnancy. Using statistical analyses (logistic regression, n=8037 deliveries), history of UTI, both before pregnancy and during pregnancy prior to prenatal care initiation, more than doubled the women's risk of bacteriuria (i.e., high level of bacteria in the urine) at prenatal care initiation. African-American women with sickle cell versus normal hemoglobin were at nearly twice the risk for bacteriuria.