What Could Cause The Appearance Of Bacteria In A Urine Test Even Though No Symptoms Are Noticeable?

Posted on Mon, 26 Mar 2018

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 26 Mar 2018 Answered on

Fri, 5 May 2023 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi my wife is 23 weeks pregnant. recently we have received her urine CUE and culture test. it is showing some growth. but doctor suggested no antibiotic since she does not feel any pain and fever. please check the reports and let us know is there anything serious.

Answered by Dr. Shanti Vennam (43 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Monitoring is necessary; short course of antibiotic treatment to be given.

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

There is a condition called 'asymptomatic bacteriuria' wherein the culture shows bacteria without any specific symptoms. This seems to be the most likely cause of the current situation of your wife. It is not a serious condition as such, but observation is needed as it can later lead to ascending infection into the urinary bladder, ureters and the kidneys, without early treatment.

A short course of antibiotic treatment is needed followed by monitoring to watch for persisting and/or ascending infection.

Ciprofloxacin is better avoided during pregnancy. Adequate hydration, fruits and fruit juices specifically cranberries, grape extract etc, help in prevention.

Hope I have clarified your query.

Regards,
Dr. Shanti Vennam
OBGYN

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar