Abstract:
ntroduction: intestinal parasites are the most abundant and common infectious microorganism in
developing countries. Globally, it remains the public health problem by affecting 3.2 billion people
from which 10% were pregnant women. In Sub Saharan Africa, pregnant women are the most risky
group next to children for this infection.
Objective: To assess magnitude and factors associated with intestinal parasite infection among
pregnant women in Shewarobit health facilities, North Shoa Zone, Amhara Region.
Method: Facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted in health facilities at Shewarobit. Using
a systematic sampling technique 356 pregnant women were selected and the first pregnant women was
selected using lottery method. Data was collected by interview and laboratory microscopic stool
examination. Data entry was carried out by Epidata and analyzed by using SPSS version 23.0. Binary
and multiple logistic regression were performed. All variables with p-value <0.20 on bivariate analysis
were taken to multivariate analysis. AOR was calculated and P-value less than 0.05 taken as
statistically significant.
Result: Total 347 pregnant women participated in this study with a mean age of 27.5 years old. The
magnitude of total parasite (Protozoa and helminths) infection was 27.7% (95% CI: 23.1, 32.6). From
protozoan; G.lmblia and from helminths; S.mansoni were the most identified parasites with magnitude
of 44.8% and 31.3% respectively. Unimproved water source (AOR: 5.12, 95% CI: 1.24, 21.4) and
dumping solid waste on an open field (AOR: 5.13, 95% CI: 1.38, 19.10), using toilet water for other
purpose (AOR: 3.69, 95% CI: 1.18, 11.59), practice of hand washing after toilet (AOR: 3.90, 95% CI:
1.38, 10.89) and status of health education about intestinal parasites (AOR: 6.12, 95% CI: 2.34, 12.20)
were significantly associated with intestinal parasites infection.
Conclusion and recommendation: The magnitude parasitic infection is high (World Health
Organization cut off point) and associated with environmental factors, personal hygiene practice
health-related factors. Therefore, the environment and sanitation program and health education should
be strengthened as well as early screening and deworming of pregnant is needed to prevent and control
intestinal parasites infection.
