Maternal renal and urinary tract disorders

There are significant hemodynamic and immunological changes in pregnancy which lead to urinary frequency, retention, and physiologic hydronephrosis. These changes predispose women to urinary tract infections and pyelonephritis. ASB during pregnancy is seen between 2%-10%. The incidence of acute cystitis is 1-2%, pyelonephritis is 1% or less. Accurate determination and treatment of ASB during pregnancy is important so that we can prevent its progression to cystitis or pyelonephritis. This chapter covers the definition, incidence, aetiology, diagnosis, complications, and the management of ASB, cystitis, and pyelonephritis during pregnancy. Evidence-based discussion of antibiotherapy and follow up are presented.