A study on the bacterial species causing urinary tract infections in pregnant women in Libya, specifically in the Al-Khums, Al-Qarabulli, and Qasr Al-Akhyar areas

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the bacterial species causing urinary tract infections (UTIs) among pregnant women in Libya, specifically in the cities of Al-Khums, Al-Garabulli, and Qasr Al-Akhyar. Conducted between February 1, 2025, and April 30, 2025, the study involved 150 pregnant women visiting Al-Khums Hospital, Al-Ataya Hospital, and Al-Alous Rural Hospital. General urine analysis was performed to identify pregnant women with UTIs. Urine cultures were conducted on positive cases in both private and hospital-affiliated public laboratories to identify the causative bacterial species. Antibiotic sensitivity testing was also performed on the bacterial isolates. The results showed that the infection rate was higher among younger women; the likelihood of contracting a UTI was greater in younger women and decreased with advancing age. Regarding the bacterial species, *Escherichia coli* accounted for 63.7% of cases, followed by *Staphylococcus aureus* (14.7%); these were the most common isolates. The study revealed that multiparity (repeated pregnancies) was associated with a 39.2% incidence rate of UTIs. Furthermore, the findings indicated that women are at higher risk of infection during the final months of pregnancy. Sensitivity test results indicated that the majority of bacterial isolates exhibited high sensitivity to Cephalosporin and Gentamicin, with rates of 88.8% and 70.3%, respectively. The study also emphasized the importance of maintaining personal hygiene, adhering to medical advice, and ensuring prenatal care with a specialist, particularly during advanced stages of pregnancy, in cases of multiple pregnancies, and among young women.