Asymptomatic bacteriuria (policy currently under review)
The UK NSC policy on Asymptomatic Bacteriuria screening in pregnancy
More Information
This is a condition caused by bacteria in the urine and is also known as urinary tract infection. These infections are common during pregnancy.
» Read more about urinary tract infection on NHS Choices
Policy Position
Screening for this condition should be offered.
This policy is currently being reviewed as part of the UK NSC's regular review cycle of all policies.
The review process began in Dec 2010 and is estimated to be completed by Mar 2012.
The consultation on the expert review has now finished but you can still download the document here:
» Download the expert review for Asymptomatic bacteriuria (PDF document, 513KB)
The UK NSC will consider the review and any submissions made during the consultation period to reach a final policy decision. The decision will be available on this website when it is available.
Evidence Supporting the Policy
National Collaborating Centre for Women’s and Children’s Health. Commissioned by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence. Antenatal care: routine care for the healthy pregnant woman. CG62: full guidance. March 2008 (corrected June 2008).
See p180 (in Chapter 10 Screening for infections) of this guideline for the section on asymptomatic bacteriuria.
Stakeholders
Group B Strep Support
Health Protection Agency
Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists
UCL Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Institute for Women’s Health
The stakeholder groups will be involved when the policy is next reviewed. If you think your organisation should be added, please contact us.
