Pregnancy is a special time, but it can also bring concerns about health and safety. One of these concerns for some women is hepatitis. Hepatitis is a viral infection that affects the liver and can be transmitted in different ways, including from mother to baby during pregnancy. In this article, we’ll discuss how to reduce the risk of hepatitis transmission during pregnancy and keep both you and your baby safe.
What is Hepatitis?
Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver, often caused by viral infections. The most common types are hepatitis A, B, and C. These infections can be serious if left untreated and may lead to long-term liver damage. Hepatitis B and C are the most concerning when it comes to pregnancy, as they can be passed from mother to baby.
Can Hepatitis be Passed from Mother to Baby?
Yes, hepatitis B and C can be passed from mother to baby during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. This is why it is crucial for pregnant women to be aware of their hepatitis status and take steps to reduce the risk of transmission.
Hepatitis B is more likely to be transmitted during childbirth, especially if the mother is highly infectious. Hepatitis C is less commonly transmitted from mother to baby, but the risk still exists, especially if the mother has high levels of the virus in her blood.
Hepatitis Screening in Pregnancy
In the UK, all pregnant women are offered a screening test for hepatitis B as part of their antenatal care. This is typically done at your first booking appointment during the early stages of pregnancy. If the test shows that you are infected with hepatitis B or C, your healthcare provider will help you understand how to manage the condition during pregnancy.
For women who are at higher risk of hepatitis, such as those who have been exposed to the virus through drug use, unprotected sex, or a family history of hepatitis, additional screenings may be recommended. Early detection of the infection is crucial for managing the risk of passing it to your baby.
Can You Take Hepatitis Medication While Pregnant?
Some women with hepatitis may need medication to manage the infection, but this is a complex issue during pregnancy. The safety of certain medications for hepatitis during pregnancy depends on the type of hepatitis and the individual case.
For hepatitis B, antiviral medications may be prescribed to lower the risk of passing the virus to the baby during childbirth. In most cases, these medications are considered safe to take during pregnancy. However, treatment options for hepatitis C are more limited, and many antiviral medications are not recommended during pregnancy due to potential risks to the baby.
Breastfeeding with Hepatitis: Is it Safe?
Breastfeeding is a natural and important part of bonding with your baby. But what if you have hepatitis? The good news is that, in most cases, it’s safe to breastfeed with hepatitis, especially if you are receiving treatment or if your hepatitis B or C is well-controlled.
For women with hepatitis B, breastfeeding is generally safe, but there are a few precautions to consider. If you have cracked or bleeding nipples, it’s important to avoid breastfeeding to prevent the potential for the virus to pass through your blood to the baby. Your baby should also receive the hepatitis B vaccine and an injection of immune globulin after birth to reduce the risk of infection.
For hepatitis C, the risk of transmission through breastfeeding is considered to be very low. However, if your hepatitis C is not well-controlled, or if you have cracked or bleeding nipples, you should discuss the situation with experts to decide the best course of action.
Preventing Hepatitis Transmission
The key to preventing hepatitis transmission during pregnancy is early detection, vaccination, and careful management. Here are some steps to reduce the risk:
- Get vaccinated for hepatitis B if you haven’t already.
- Attend regular screenings to monitor your hepatitis status during pregnancy.
- Work with your healthcare provider to decide on the best treatment plan, including antiviral medications if necessary.
- Practice safe hygiene to prevent the spread of hepatitis, especially if you have hepatitis B or C.
- Follow breastfeeding guidelines and take necessary precautions if you have hepatitis.
Take Action Today for a Healthier Pregnancy
It’s important to stay informed and proactive about your health during pregnancy. By getting vaccinated, attending screenings, and following expert advice, you can reduce the risk of hepatitis transmission to your baby.
Ready to get vaccinated and protect your baby’s health? Book an appointment for hepatitis vaccination at Anna Pharmacy in Sutton & Carshalton or Hackbridge today.