Assessment of risk factors contributing to urinary tract infections in women

Abstract

ABSTRACT:Introduction : Urinary tract infection is a common contagion among men and women but incidence is quite high among women due to their anatomy. The incidence of the infection is higher among sexually active women and the possibilities of encountering the infection after a sexual intercourse is higher. Identified risk factors for such infections include sexual activity, spermicide-based contraception, delayed postcoital micturition, and a history of previous UTIs. OBJECTIVES : 1. To assess socio demographic factors among patients of urinary tract infection. 2. To assess risk factors contributing to urinary tract infection. Material and methods Total 91 female patients, who were diagnosed to have urinary tract infection were selected in our study. Data regarding socio-demographic and various risk factors was collected and frequency distribution tables were prepared. RESULTS : Majority females (68%) were between 18-45 years old. About 64% patients belonged to rural area, and 90% patients belong to lower, or lower middle class. About 68% patient's education was below high school and about 74% patients were married. Among risk factors for UTI, we found that sexual activity (in 83%) was most common risk factor for UTI. CONCLUSION: Patient who are exposed to risk factors, should be given special attention by the visiting clinicians, so that early diagnosis can be made and early treatment can be started. Early diagnosis and treatment leads to less complications, morbidities and mortality.