FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO INCREASED CASES OF URINARY TRACT INFECTION AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN ATTENDING DR. RONALD BATTA MEMORIAL HOSPITAL, WAKISO DISTRICT. A CROSS-SECIONAL STUDY.

Abstract

Purpose of the study.

The study was to determine the factors contributing to increased cases of urinary tract infection among pregnant women attending DR. Ronald Batta Memorial Hospital, Wakiso district.

Study methods/design.

The study employed a cross-sectional design; a simple random sampling technique was used. Data was collected on a sample size of 50 respondents using a semi-structured questionnaire with closed and open-ended questions. Data was analyzed manually and entered in a computer using Microsoft Excel computer program to generate tables, pie charts, and bar graphs.

Results.

The study findings on factors contributing to increased cases of urinary tract infection among pregnant women showed that (76%) of the respondents wore non-cotton garments, (84%) cleaned forward to backward based on anal cleaning direction,(64%) douched with soap while bathing, (78%) did not flash the toilet before use, (84%) used public toilets/ latrines, (66%) had no knowledge about the cause of urinary tract infection, (56%) bathed once a day, (72%) douched after having sex, (78%) were prime gravida mothers, (62%) were in their second trimester of pregnancy, (88%) had a history of urinary tract infection, (78%) had no children.

Conclusion.

Generally, the researcher concluded that the findings of the study were attributed to a lack of knowledge about UTI, risk factors and their prevention, late diagnosis of the infection, anti-microbial resistance to drugs, changes in the urinary tract, and immunological changes of pregnancy.

Recommendations.

The researcher recommends that: there should be an introduction of culture and sensitivity of every pregnant woman especially those with a history of urinary tract infection to get the appropriate treatment and hence reduce antimicrobial resistance. More so, pregnant women should be educated about the causes and preventive measures of urinary tract infections during antenatal visits.