Preventing and Managing Urinary Tract Infections in Pregnancy: A Review of Antibiotic Use, Safety Considerations, and Alternative Approaches

Abstract

Background: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common health issue among pregnant women. Antibiotics are the primary treatment for UTIs, but their use during pregnancy raises concerns about safety and the development of antibiotic resistance. Alternative approaches to preventing and managing UTIs in pregnancy have been suggested as potential options. Methods: This review aims to summarize the current evidence on antibiotic use, safety considerations, and alternative approaches for preventing and managing UTIs in pregnant women. Relevant studies were identified through searches of several databases, including PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase. The search was conducted from inception to September 2021, and it included studies in English. Results: Antibiotics remain the primary treatment for UTIs in pregnancy. However, several alternative approaches, such as cranberry products, probiotics, and behavioral interventions, have been suggested as potential options for preventing and managing UTIs in pregnant women. These approaches have varying levels of evidence to support their efficacy, and their safety profiles have not been fully established. Conclusion: Preventing and managing UTIs in pregnancy require a multidisciplinary approach that balances the benefits and risks of antibiotic use and alternative approaches. Clinicians should consider safety and efficacy profiles of different options when treating pregnant women with UTIs. Further research is needed to establish the safety and efficacy of alternative approaches. Keywords: Urinary tract infections, pregnancy, antibiotics, safety considerations, alternative approaches, cranberry products, probiotics, behavioral interventions, multidisciplinary approach.