Factors Associated with the Occurrence of Urogenital Bacterial Infections in Pregnant Women at a Reference Hospital in Cameroon

Abstract

Introduction: According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the most common bacterial infections in pregnant women are urinary tract infections (46%) and vaginal infections (26%). Pregnant women are at risk of contracting these dangerous urogenital bacterial infections, with more or less serious consequences for the health of both mother and child. The aim of this study was to identify the factors associated with the occurrence of urogenital bacterial infections in pregnant women attending antenatal clinics. Methodology: A cross-sectional, analytical study was conducted from May 13 to June 14, 2024, at Douala Laquintinie Hospital. All pregnant women attending antenatal clinics regardless of gestational trimester and consenting to the study were included. Data were analyzed using SPSS 20, R 3.4, and Epi info 7.8. Chi-square, Fischer, and logistic regression tests were performed. Results: A total of 153 pregnant were included in this study. The incidence of urogenital infections in this population was 42%. Infectious agents were E-coli (18.95%), Klebsiella pneumoniae (7.83%), Gardnerella vaginalis (24.44%), and Streptococcus B (2.22%). Self-medication (OR=17.72; p = 0.0003), drying underwear inside the house (OR=6.53; p = 0.00081), use of traditional toilets (OR=2.65; p = 0.00001), surgical history (OR=2.10; p = 0.01), vaccination status (OR=2.11; p = 0.003), use of borehole and well water (OR=0.02; p = 0.002), frequency of sanitary pad changing (OR=1.13; p = 0.011), frequency of sexual intercourse (OR=1.32; p = 0.012), traditional purging (OR=0.06; p = 0.0001), poor personal hygiene (OR=0.2; p = 0.0031), multiple sexual partners (OR=1.8; p = 0.022) and tight underwear (OR=0.4; p = 0.01) were associated with the occurrence of urogenital bacterial infections. Conclusion: Urogenital bacterial infections during pregnancy are dangerous. Knowledge of the factors associated with their occurrence will enable the implementation of appropriate control strategies against these infections.