Hepatitis B Guidelines for Pregnant Women
What is hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B is the most common serious liver infection in the world. It is caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV) that attacks liver cells and can lead to liver failure, cirrhosis (scarring) or cancer of the liver later in life. The virus is transmitted through contact with infected blood and bodily fluids.
If I’m pregnant, should I be tested for hepatitis B?
Yes! Pregnant women who are infected with hepatitis B can transmit the virus to their newborns during pregnancy or delivery. Almost 90% of these babies will become chronically infected with hepatitis B at birth if there is
no prevention.
