Maternal cytomegalovirus infection prevention: The role of Dutch primary care midwives

Abstract

Objectiveto assess the knowledge of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection among Dutch primary care midwives, and clinical approaches to informing women about CMV. Designcross-sectional study, using self-administered questionnaires. Participants330 Dutch primary care midwives. Settingprimary midwifery care practices across the Netherlands. Main outcomeMidwives׳ knowledge of CMV transmission routes and maternal symptoms, and clinical practice behaviours regarding CMV, the information typically provided or reasons for not informing pregnant women about CMV. Findingsthe overall median knowledge score was 8.0 out of a maximum possible score of 13.0. Of all participants, 10.6% reported always informing pregnant women about CMV infection prevention and 41.0% reported never informing pregnant women. The main reason indicated for not informing pregnant women was lack of knowledge about preventive methods (45.7%). ConclusionDutch primary care midwives have limited knowledge of CMV infection. Improvement in providing education to pregnant women about strategies to prevent CMV is necessary.