Intestinal Parasitic Infections in Pregnant Women: A Public Health Concern

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Intestinal parasitic infections affect pregnant women all over the world. The infection has been linked to the development of life-threatening conditions in both pregnant women and their developing fetus.

Objective: This study was conducted to determine the prevalence, intensity of infection and associated risk factor among pregnant women of five different wards of Hetauda sub-metropolitan city, Makawanpur, Bagmati province, Nepal.

Materials and Methods: A cross- sectional study was carried out among (100) conveniently sampled pregnant women receiving antenatal care services at Rural Urban health care center of Two, four, five, ten and 11 numbers wards of Hetauda in between July to December of 2023 after obtaining approval from the Ethical committee of the Institute of Science and Technology, Tribhuvan University, Nepal (IRB approval no. 23-0067). Structured questionnaires were administered to study participants to assess socio-demographic and other possible factors. Stool samples were collected from each pregnant woman and examined for the presence of intestinal parasites by microscopy using direct wet mount, flotation as well as formal-ether sedimentation techniques.

Result: The study revealed that of the 100 samples examined, 19 samples (19%) were found to be positive for gastrointestinal parasites. Parasites covering five genera. Ascaris lumbricoides (8%) was most predominant followed by Entamoeba histolytica (4%), Strongyloides stercoralis (3%), Trichuris trichiura (2%) and Hymenolepis nana (2%). Parasites are more observed amongst poorer population, independent of their age. Chi-square test conclude that there is association between parasites and financial situation (P= 0.0084).

Conclusion: Screening of the women for intestinal parasites and provision of health education during their ANC (Antenatal care) visit to prevent the adverse effects on maternal and fetal health from these infections.