Patient's question:
I have a history of hepatitis B for over ten years and am positive for the "big three." I would like to know if I can have a normal pregnancy. My liver function tests are normal. If I do get pregnant, can I breastfeed?Doctor's answer:
Hepatitis B transmission through mother-to-child is an important route of spread for the virus. In the past, if the mother was HBeAg positive, over 90% of infected infants would become hepatitis B carriers. However, the introduction of the hepatitis B vaccine has effectively prevented horizontal transmission of the virus. Now, all newborns must receive the hepatitis B vaccine. If the mother is HBeAg positive, the newborn must be administered hepatitis B immune globulin within 24 hours of birth. Through vaccination with the hepatitis B vaccine and hepatitis B immune globulin, protection for newborns can reach over 90%.