Urinary tract infection is frequent during pregnancy with a high potential risk for mother and child. Based on a review of the literature and a retrospective survey conducted in 20 representative French university hospitals during 1993, the authors propose a practical review designed to standardize the therapeutic approach to this disease. They define a high-risk group which requires systematic screening and close surveillance during pregnancy. They evaluate the need for complementary investigations in relation to the 3 clinical presentations encountered (asymptomatic bacteriuria, cystitis and acute pyelonephritis) taking into account their respective adverse effects. The therapeutic modalities of the three clinical forms are then described, including drainage of the urinary tract.