Limited knowledge of preventive measures for cytomegalovirus among pregnant women: an Italian study

BACKGROUND: Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is the leading cause of congenital infection in pregnancy and non-genetic infant hearing loss. Evidence showed that antenatal education about hygiene practices might decrease infection acquisition. We aimed to assess pregnant women's awareness of CMV infection and knowledge of preventive behaviors and to identify associated factors. METHODS: A prospective cross-sectional survey study was conducted at a single academic maternity center between May and November 2023. Data were gathered via a self-administered paper questionnaire from pregnant women aged 18 or older. RESULTS: Out of 384 participants, 65.4% were aware that CMV infection could pose risks during pregnancy. CMV awareness was significantly linked to university education (OR 7.18, 95% CI 2.79-18.44), preconceptional provision of information (OR 1.98, 95% CI 1.17-3.36), folic acid intake (OR 2.75; 95% CI 1.53-4.95, P=0.0007), and pregnancy vaccination uptake (OR 1.64; 95% CI 1.06-2.52, P=0.0249). Women starting folic acid when already pregnant and smoking during pregnancy, were 55% and 72% less aware of CMV, respectively (OR 0.45, 95% CI 0.23-0.86; OR 0.28, 95% CI 0.14-0.59). Only 28.1% of women had adequate CMV preventive behaviors knowledge, rising to just 33.1% among those aware of CMV and its risks in pregnancy. Mass-media use positively influenced awareness of CMV (OR 2.57, 95% CI 1.44-4.60). CONCLUSIONS: Although we identified a moderately high rate of CMV infection awareness, appropriate knowledge of its specific preventive measures was low. Mass-media use to inform before conception and the adoption of effective communication methods early in pregnancy might represent feasible ameliorating interventions.