Multiparity as a risk factor for congenital toxoplasmosis: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

# Background Congenital toxoplasmosis (CT) is caused by placental transfer of *Toxoplasma gondii* to the fetus, which can generate neurological, neurocognitive deficits, or death. Appropriate preventive strategies are required for infection-related risk factors. This study assessed the prevalence of *T. gondii* infection and the factors associated with CT in pregnant women with assistance from the Public Health Service at Ouro Preto, Brazil. # Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted between April and December 2020. Pregnant women (n=131) aged between 13 and 46 years, were recruited and evaluated for specific IgM/IgG antibody levels against *T. gondii*. A structured questionnaire was applied to determine the socioeconomic, environmental, gestational, clinical, and dietary patterns. # Results The prevalence of *T. gondii* was 45.8% (n = 60) in which multiparas revealed to be more exposed to infection and were 2.6 times more likely to become infected with the parasite compared to primiparas, (odds ratio, OR=2.60; 95% confidence interval, CI=1.25-5.39). A high prevalence of *T. gondii* seropositivity was found to be related to the absence of basic sanitation at home. In conclusion, multiparas constitute risk factor for CT. # Conclusions Educational and preventive measures should be intensified in uninfected multiparas to raise awareness about the potential risks of contact with *T. gondii*.