Breastfeeding With Hepatitis

By Erica McClannahan RN, BSN, IBCLC

Out of the many blood tests pregnant women receive, screening for hepatitis will be one of them. This is because a woman that is infected with hepatitis may pass the viral infection to her baby during the childbirth process.  Hepatitis is a liver infection that is primarily transmitted through blood exposure which can easily occur during both vaginal and cesarean births.  Hepatitis A and C are considered curable and people with hepatitis B usually clear the infection on their own after a few months, but some develop a chronic case and may test positive for a lifetime.  

Is It Safe For A Mother Infected With Hepatitis To Breastfeed?

No reason to fear, the good news is that breastfeeding is not contraindicated with a hepatitis infection.  While the three series hepatitis vaccine is recommended for all infants, the series is also recommended for infants born to infected mothers.  These babies will also receive a hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG) injection within 12 hours of birth which contains antibodies to the virus to provide rapid protection in case the infant comes in contact with maternal blood during the delivery process.  Breastfeeding does not need to be delayed for the baby to receive either of these medications. 

What About Cracked/Bleeding Nipples?

Since the virus is primarily transmitted through blood, if the breastfeeding mother develops cracked or bleeding nipples it is recommended they take a break from breastfeeding temporarily until the skin breakdown fully heals.  Since they need to keep removing milk and stimulating their breasts to maintain milk supply, pumping and dumping unfortunately would need to occur during that time.  An alternate feeding plan should be set in place, either by providing bottles of saved, previously pumped milk or using formula to lessen the risk of blood exposure to the baby.  

It’s always scary to test positive for an infection, and there are so many ways we try to protect our babies from harm, but breastfeeding is still recommended for those who may test positive for hepatitis.  If you are ever unsure or concerned about whether breastfeeding or any other feeding plan may be right for you, we encourage you to reach out to one of our International Board Certified Lactation Consultants or one of the providers on your healthcare team for personalized guidance!