Hepatitis C and Pregnancy: What Expecant Mothers Need to Know
Pregnancy is an exciting milestone, but can be tricky to navigate while living with Hepatitis C (HCV). While hepititis C predominantly targets the liver, its effects during pregnancy require special attention. This post outlines best practices to balance self-care with baby care, from transmission risks to postpartum considerations, to managing risks.
How Hepatitis C Spreads: Relevance to Pregnancy
Hepatitis C is a blood-borne virus; it is contracted through exposure to infected blood. The risk of transmitting HCV to your infant during pregnancy is low (around 5-6%), but the figure can rise drastically if you have high viral loads or co-infections like HIV. Primary sources include:
- Shared needles (such as IV drug use or unsterilized medical equipment)
- Blood-to-blood contact (such as open wounds or sharing razors)
- Maternal blood exposure to baby during childbirth
Note: HCV is not spread through casual contact or hugging and never through breastfeeding unless nipples are cracked/bleeding.
Risks to Mother and Baby
For the Mother:
- Pregnancy alone does not worsen HCV; however, liver function needs to be monitored.
- Fatigue and nausea (common in pregnancy) may feel worse.
For the Baby:
- Most babies born to HCV-positive women do not have the virus.
- In the event of transmission, early diagnosis and treatment has a high success rate.
Managing Hepatitis C During Pregnancy
1. Prenatal Screening
- All pregnant women should be screened for HCV as it is usually asymptomatic.
- If positive, a liver function test and viral load check should be done.
2. Treatment Timing
- Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs), which cure Hepatitis C, are not permitted to be used in pregnancy.
- Treatment is usually done after delivery and cessation of breastfeeding.
3. Healthy Habits
- Do not drink alcohol and restrict acetaminophen intake to reduce strain on the liver.
- Increase the intake of fruits and vegetables, along with other lean proteins.
Delivery Considerations
The risk of HCV infection during a vaginal delivery opposed to a c-section is about the same. Your care team will:
- Avoid using fetal monitoring devices that can cut the baby’s skin.
- Use clean techniques to reduce the potential for blood contact.
Postpartum Care and Breastfeeding
- Breastfeeding is acceptable if the nipples are not cracked or bleeding.
- You may check your child for HCV in 18 months (or earlier with a PCR test at 2-6 months).
- DAAs are safe in breastfeeding, so you can begin HCV treatment postpartum.
Prevention Tips for Expecting Mothers
To lessen the chances of transmission:
- Do not share personal items such as razors, toothbrushes, and needles.
- Safe sex should be practiced (Sexual contact with HCV rarely happens, but if it does, it’s through blood).
- Avoid sharing couple intimacy products such as underwear, dildos and vibrators as they could contain blood if not properly cleaned.
Conclusion
Hepatitis C may complicate the pregnancy journey, but with proper pre-natal care, most mothers give birth to healthy, HCV-negative infants. Collaboratively work with your healthcare team, incorporate hepatoprotective lifestyle modifications, and thanks to the constant advancements in HCV therapies, remember a cure is possible after delivery. Remain proactive through the process, stay reset to embrace what’s next.
Your health and your kid’s health will benefit from every single step you take.
