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For Mom: Information for Hepatitis B Positive Pregnant Women
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Image courtesy of Smarnad
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Printable version of this information
If you have tested positive for hepatitis B, it is important to know how to best care for yourself and what steps you can take to protect others from getting the hepatitis B virus (HBV). The Perinatal Hepatitis B Prevention Program (PHBPP) will help guide you through how to care for yourself and how to protect your baby, partner and household members.
What is hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B is a virus that attacks your liver. It is spread through infected blood and body fluids. You cannot get hepatitis B through holding hands, sneezing, coughing, hugging, or kissing.
How to care for yourself:
- See a doctor at least once a year to monitor your liver
- Review all medications with your doctor or pharmacist, even over-the-counter, as they can hurt your liver
- Avoid alcohol
How to protect your baby:
- Be sure your baby has hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG) and the first dose of hepatitis B vaccine within 12 hours of birth
- Be sure your baby has at least two more doses of hepatitis B vaccine to complete the vaccine series
- Be sure your baby has a blood test after the vaccine series is complete so you will know your baby is safe from getting HBV
How to protect your partner and other household members:
- Be sure your partner/household members get the hepatitis B vaccine series (three shots in six months)
- Do not share toothbrushes, razors, earrings, or anything else that can carry blood
- Be sure you cover all cuts and open sores with a bandage
- Clean up blood with a mix of 10% bleach to water
For more detailed information:
How to contact the PHBPP:
If you have any questions or would like more information, contact us at:
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