Comprehensive Perinatal Care for Women with Hepatitis B

Comprehensive Perinatal Care for Women with Hepatitis B

 Comprehensive Perinatal Care for Women with Hepatitis B

👩‍⚕️ By Dr. Hitesh Patel, Harsh Hospital, Himatnagar, Sabarkantha, Gujarat

Hepatitis B, a viral infection affecting the liver, poses unique challenges for pregnant women. Without proper care, there is a high risk of transmitting the virus to the baby during pregnancy, labor, or delivery. However, with timely interventions and expert management, the risk of transmission can be significantly reduced to less than 5%.

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What is Hepatitis B and Why is Perinatal Care Important?

Hepatitis B is a liver infection caused by the Hepatitis B virus (HBV). Pregnant women with Hepatitis B are at risk of transmitting the virus to their baby, especially during childbirth. This is called perinatal transmission, and it can lead to chronic liver disease in the baby.

Perinatal care ensures that both the mother and baby receive the best possible treatment and preventive measures to manage the condition and ensure a healthy outcome.

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Steps in Perinatal Care for Women with Hepatitis B

1️⃣ Routine Screening:

• All pregnant women should be screened for Hepatitis B early in pregnancy using the HBsAg blood test.

2️⃣ Monitoring & Treatment:

• If the mother has a high viral load, antiviral medications may be prescribed to lower the risk of transmission. These medications are safe and effective during pregnancy.

3️⃣ Safe Delivery Practices:

• Standard delivery precautions help minimize exposure to the baby during childbirth.

4️⃣ Immediate Newborn Care:

• The baby should receive the first dose of the Hepatitis B vaccine and Hepatitis B Immunoglobulin (HBIG) within 12 hours of birth. This step is crucial to prevent infection.

5️⃣ Breastfeeding Guidance:

• Breastfeeding is safe for mothers with Hepatitis B, as long as the baby is vaccinated at birth.

6️⃣ Postnatal Follow-Up:

• Regular follow-up care for the baby to ensure timely completion of the Hepatitis B vaccine series and monitoring for infection.

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Benefits of Proper Perinatal Care

⚡ Reduces the risk of perinatal transmission to less than 5%.
⚡ Ensures the long-term health of both mother and baby.
⚡ Prevents chronic liver disease in newborns.

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Common Myths About Hepatitis B and Pregnancy

❌ Myth: Women with Hepatitis B cannot have healthy pregnancies.
✔️ Fact: With proper care, most women with Hepatitis B can have safe pregnancies and healthy babies.

❌ Myth: Breastfeeding is not safe for mothers with Hepatitis B.
✔️ Fact: Breastfeeding is safe as long as the baby receives the required vaccination.

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Care at Harsh Hospital

At Harsh Hospital, Himatnagar, we provide expert, evidence-based care for women with Hepatitis B during pregnancy. Dr. Hitesh Patel and our dedicated team ensure every mother receives personalized care and guidance at every step of her journey.

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Take the First Step Towards Safe Motherhood

💡 Early diagnosis and management are key to protecting your baby. If you’re pregnant and have Hepatitis B, don’t delay—consult our experts today.

📍 Harsh Hospital, Himatnagar, Sabarkantha, Gujarat
📞 Book an appointment with Dr. Hitesh Patel now.

💙 Your health and your baby’s health are our priority.