Prevalence and Risk Factors for Urinary Tract Infections Among Women Attending Antenatal Clinics in Enugu State, South East Nigeria

Urinary tract infections are among the most common complications of pregnancy and pose significant risks to maternal and neonatal outcomes if left undetected or inadequately treated. This study investigates the prevalence and risk factors associated with urinary tract infections among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in Enugu State, South East Nigeria. A cross-sectional design is applied to 315 women in their first and second trimesters selected through systematic sampling from three tertiary and secondary health facilities. Midstream urine specimens are collected and cultured using standard microbiological protocols, while structured questionnaires gather data on personal hygiene practices, sexual activity frequency, previous UTI history, and hydration habits. SPSS is used for analysis, with logistic regression identifying independent predictors of infection. Evidence from obstetric literature in South East Nigeria indicates a UTI prevalence of 15 to 25 percent among pregnant women, with Escherichia coli and Klebsiella species being the most common isolates. The Epidemiological Triad forms the study's conceptual basis, exploring host, agent, and environmental interactions. Findings will guide clinical and public health practitioners in implementing routine antenatal UTI screening protocols, patient education, and empirical antibiotic stewardship. Keywords: urinary tract infections, pregnancy, antenatal care, risk factors, Enugu State.