Can a woman with a small three-positive (hepatitis B) status transmit the virus to her fetus?
Nov 29, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, women with "minor three positives" (small three positives) may transmit the hepatitis B virus to the fetus or newborn through vertical mother-to-child transmission. In daily life, it is recommended that women undergo regular prenatal checkups and hepatitis B testing during pregnancy. Under a doctor's guidance, they can receive immunoglobulin injections. After the baby is born, the infant should receive the hepatitis B vaccine in a timely manner. Before and after breastfeeding, mothers should thoroughly wash their hands and clean their breasts.
Generally, "small three positives" refers to a positive result for hepatitis B surface antibody, hepatitis B e-antibody, and hepatitis B core antibody. Women who are "small three positive" may transmit the hepatitis B virus to their fetuses or newborns via vertical mother-to-child transmission. The specific mechanisms are as follows:
If a woman has active hepatitis B viral replication during pregnancy, the virus may infect the developing fetus through placental blood circulation. During delivery, the virus present in the mother's vaginal secretions, amniotic fluid, and blood may infect the fetus through wounds on its body surface. After delivery, prolonged close contact with the newborn or breastfeeding may also increase the risk of infection.
In daily life, it is recommended that women undergo regular prenatal and hepatitis B testing during pregnancy. Under a physician's guidance, immunoglobulin injections may be administered. The newborn should receive the hepatitis B vaccine promptly after birth. Before and after breastfeeding, the mother should thoroughly wash her hands and clean her breasts. If the mother's nipples become cracked or bleed, breastfeeding should be temporarily stopped until the wounds have healed.
