Hepatitis during pregnancy poses serious health risks for both the mother and the unborn child. Hepatitis is a viral infection that affects the liver and comes in several types—A, B, C, D, and E. Among these, hepatitis B and C are the most dangerous during pregnancy because they can be transmitted from mother to baby, potentially leading to severe liver diseases like cirrhosis or even liver cancer in the child later in life. Here’s how pregnant women can protect their babies from hepatitis, as explained by experts at AIIMS Delhi.

What Causes Hepatitis?

According to Healthline, hepatitis infection can spread through:

• Use of infected blood or contaminated needles (such as injections with old needles or unsafe blood transfusions)

• Unsafe sexual contact

• Contaminated food or water (mainly for hepatitis A and E)

• Unsterilized equipment used for tattooing or piercing

Among these, hepatitis B and C can be transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy or childbirth.

Protecting the Unborn Child from Hepatitis

Dr. Rakesh Bagdi from AIIMS Delhi’s Pediatric Department explains:

• If a pregnant woman has hepatitis B, the newborn should receive two injections within the first 12 hours after birth:

  • Hepatitis B vaccine

  • Hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG)

• These injections work together to boost the baby’s immunity, reducing the risk of infection to almost zero.

• After this initial dose, the baby must receive two more vaccine doses within six months to ensure full protection.

For hepatitis C, there is currently no vaccine available. However, regular monitoring of the baby after birth is crucial. Doctors will decide the best delivery method and timing to minimize the baby’s risk of infection.

Important Precautions for Pregnant Women

• Get tested for hepatitis early in pregnancy.

• Avoid contaminated food and water, and maintain good hygiene.

• Ensure all needles, injections, medications, and equipment (including tattoo or piercing tools) are sterile.

• If hepatitis positive, ensure the newborn receives timely vaccination and immunoglobulin.

• Consult your doctor about breastfeeding options and precautions.