Cytomegalovirus and its relationship with connatal infections in pregnant women attending the Jipijapa Health Center

Abstract

Cytomegalovirus is the most common congenital viral infection worldwide and represents a significant risk during pregnancy, affecting both the mother and the fetus. This study sought to assess the relationship between cytomegalovirus and congenital infections in pregnant women treated at Jipijapa City ealth Center. A prospective, cross-sectional, descriptive observational design was used. A total of 197 pregnant women were analyzed, highlighting key demographic and clinical factors to understand the prevalence and risks associated with CMV in the local population. The most prevalent age group among pregnant women was 20 to 26 years, which accounted for 47.21% of the participants. Regarding occupation, the majority of pregnant women were homemakers (74.11%), followed by professionals (21.32%) and students (4.57%). Cytomegalovirus IgG serology results indicated that 10.2% of pregnant women were positive, suggesting prior exposure to the virus and development of immunity. With regard to cytomegalovirus IgM serology, only 1% of pregnant women had an active infection, indicating a minimal risk of primary infection at the time of pregnancy. Pregnant women, mostly young and homemakers, faced social and health factors that may have increased their vulnerability to cytomegalovirus. While active infection was low, the lack of immunity highlighted the need to strengthen prevention through prenatal care.