Urolog. pro Praxi, 2008; 9(4): 177-183

Lower urinary tract infections, urinary tract infections in pregnancy and lactation

MUDr. Michaela Matoušková, doc. MUDr. Miroslav Hanuš CSc

Urocentrum Praha, s.r.o

Both urinary and respiratory infections significantly influence the prescribing of antimicrobial agents and, in a feedback manner, lead to developing resistance to them. In most economically developed countries, urinary tract infections (UTIs) are the second leading type of infections. A reasonable administration of empiric as well as targeted treatment with antimicrobial agents may affect therapeutic costs and potential complications and their treatment. Undertreated or untreated infection is likely to have a prolonged or chronic course, which is also the case with self-therapy based on TV commercials. In addition to higher diagnosis and treatment costs, chronic stages of disease alter one‘s assertion at work, home, and the community. Moreover, they significantly affect the quality of life of both the sufferer and his/her family. A high incidence of UTIs is encountered in pregnant women. A different approach to treatment is required and a whole range of other issues must be addressed concerning UTIs in pregnancy. A different approach is also required in breastfeeding women who are of little interest to pharmaceutical companies which report treatment safety. Because of this specificity, even health care professionals tend to provide them with incorrect information. Therefore, this issue is dealt with in more detail.

Keywords: urinary tract infections (UTIs), antimicrobial treatment, pregnancy, lactation

Published: December 19, 2008  Show citation