Prevalence of Enterococcus faecalis Isolated from Urine Samples of Pregnant Women at Selected General Hospitals in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria

Abstract

Introduction: Enterococcus faecalis is an under-recognised cause of urinary tract infections during pregnancy and may adversely affect maternal and neonatal outcomes. Maternal urinary or vaginal colonisation can facilitate vertical transmission and increase the risk of neonatal enterococcal septicaemia. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the prevalence, antimicrobial susceptibility, and associated risk factors of E. faecalis among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria. Study Design: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 600 antenatal attendees recruited across the six area councils of the FCT between October 2025 and January 2026. Methods: Midstream urine samples were collected and processed using standard microbiological methods. Of these, 578 samples were analysed. Significant bacteriuria was defined as ≥10⁵ CFU/mL. Isolates were identified by conventional biochemical tests, while antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed using the Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion method according to the 2025 CLSI guidelines. Associations between E. faecalis isolation and clinical variables were analysed using chi-square tests at p < 0.05. Results: Significant bacteriuria was detected in 218 of 578 samples, giving a prevalence of 37.7%. Twenty-seven E. faecalis isolates were recovered, corresponding to 4.7% of all analysed samples and 12.4% of culture-positive cases. Nitrofurantoin showed the highest in vitro susceptibility at 74.1%, whereas lower susceptibility was observed for the other antimicrobial classes tested. A previous history of urinary tract infection and lower abdominal pain were significantly associated with E. faecalis isolation. Conclusion: The findings support culture-based diagnosis, susceptibility-guided treatment, and strengthened antimicrobial stewardship in antenatal care.