Bacteriuria affects 1% to 5% of healthy women, 1.9% to 9.5% of pregnant women, and 10.8% to 16% of women over 70, but it doesn’t always need treatment [1]. Here’s what to know.
What is Bacteriuria?
Bacteriuria is the presence of bacteria in your urine and is a common finding in men and women. It happens when bacteria, such as E. coli, Enterococcus, and Candida, grow in the urinary tract [1].
There are two types of bacteriuria: asymptomatic and symptomatic. Asymptomatic bacteriuria is not an infection, while symptomatic is linked to urinary tract infections (UTIs) and needs treatment. Women are more likely to develop bacteriuria and UTIs than men [1].
Symptoms of Bacteriuria
Bacteriuria doesn’t always cause symptoms, so you may not know you have it. However, bacteria that cause infections can cause symptoms such as [1]:
- Frequent urination
- Urgency to urinate
- Burning or pain while urinating
- Pelvic pain
- Back pain
- Cloudy or bloody urine
Infection can occur in any part of the urinary tract, such as your kidneys or bladder. A kidney infection may also cause [4]:
- Fever
- Chills
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Back or side pain
What Causes Bacteriuria?
Bacteria can develop for several different reasons. In older adults, the most common reasons are ongoing use of urinary catheters or loss of bladder control due to a spinal or brain condition [1].
Postmenopausal women may also have a higher risk. Estrogen levels drop during menopause, changing the natural flora in the vagina. The vagina loses acidity, lowering the natural defense and increasing the risk of bacteriuria and UTI [5].
However, women of all ages are more likely to develop bacteriuria than men because the urethra is close to the vagina and rectum. Bacteria from stool are often accidentally introduced into the urinary tract, causing bacteriuria or UTIs [1].
Women also frequently get UTIs after sex, especially with a new sexual partner. Certain types of birth control, such as spermicides and diaphragms, also increase the risk [6].
Men may develop bacteriuria and UTIs from urinary stones or an enlarged prostate. These conditions block the urinary tract and encourage bacteria growth [1].
GBS Bacteriuria in Pregnancy
GBS bacteriuria is the presence of Group B streptococcal bacteria in the urine. GBS can cause UTIs, meningitis (swelling of the brain and spinal cord lining), and pneumonia [2].
Pregnant women who have GBS bacteria may pass it to the baby in the womb, which can lead to infection and serious disease. GBS can cause complications, such as deafness and developmental disabilities, and may also contribute to stillbirth, early deliveries, and pregnancy loss [3].
Treatments for Bacteriuria
Bacteriuria without symptoms doesn’t need treatment unless you have GBS bacteriuria in pregnancy, are immunocompromised, or undergo a genital or urinary procedure [1]. Otherwise, you can monitor your urine using an at-home urinalysis test and watch for symptoms [7].
Bacteriuria with symptoms is likely a UTI and requires treatment. Your healthcare provider will prescribe antibiotics and may recommend long-term use or vaginal estrogen therapy for frequent infections [6].
Routine testing for GBS in pregnancy happens between 36 and 37 weeks. If the test is positive, your provider will prescribe IV antibiotics during labor to prevent complications [8].
Monitoring Urine at Home
Some people are more likely to have bacteriuria and develop infections. At-home urinalysis tests can help you monitor your urine for signs of infection, including increased nitrites, white blood cells, and pH changes.
Talk to your healthcare provider if you have a positive test with symptoms of a UTI. Order Urinox-10 urinalysis test strips today and take control of your urinary health.
