American Board of Family Medicine (ABFM) Practice Exam

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At what stage of pregnancy should all women be screened for asymptomatic bacteriuria?

6 to 10 weeks
11 to 16 weeks
20 to 24 weeks
After 30 weeks

The correct answer is: 11 to 16 weeks

Screening for asymptomatic bacteriuria in pregnant women is a critical practice because it is associated with significant health risks for both the mother and the fetus if left untreated. The recommended stage for this screening is between 11 to 16 weeks of gestation. This timeframe is important because it allows for early identification and treatment of urinary tract infections (UTIs) that could lead to more severe complications such as pyelonephritis or preterm labor. The guidelines support screening in this specific window to ensure that any potential risks are mitigated early in the pregnancy, thus promoting a healthier outcome for both the mother and the baby. Waiting until later stages of pregnancy, such as after 20 weeks or 30 weeks, would increase the risk of complications, as untreated bacteriuria can lead to more serious conditions that may necessitate more aggressive treatment, including hospitalization. Additionally, earlier detection is more beneficial in terms of managing the health of the pregnancy and preventing adverse outcomes.