How do women usually get hepatitis B?

Women can contract hepatitis B primarily through mother-to-child transmission, blood transmission, sexual contact, iatrogenic transmission, and close contact. The hepatitis B virus can enter the body through specific routes and cause infection. If symptoms such as fatigue, loss of appetite, or jaundice occur, prompt medical evaluation is recommended.

1. Mother-to-child transmission: Mothers who are positive for the hepatitis B virus may transmit the virus to their fetus or infant during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. The risk is particularly high during delivery due to exposure to maternal blood or bodily fluids, and the likelihood of infection increases significantly without preventive interventions.

2. Blood transmission: Infection can occur through transfusion of blood or blood products containing the hepatitis B virus, or by using contaminated syringes, acupuncture needles, razors, etc. Women are at higher risk during menstruation if they come into contact with contaminated items.

3. Sexual transmission: Unprotected sexual intercourse with an individual infected with hepatitis B can lead to transmission via vaginal secretions and semen. The risk increases with a higher number of sexual partners or poor sexual hygiene.

4. Iatrogenic transmission: Invasive procedures performed in unregulated medical settings—such as dental fillings, tattooing, or ear piercing—may lead to infection if instruments are not properly sterilized and carry the virus.

5. Close contact transmission: Living in close proximity with an infected person and sharing contaminated personal items such as utensils, towels, or toothbrushes may result in infection, especially if there are breaks or wounds in the skin or mucous membranes that allow viral entry.

Treatment involves following medical advice to use antiviral medications that suppress viral replication, along with regular monitoring of liver function and viral load. For care, maintain a regular sleep schedule and avoid staying up late, eat a light diet avoiding greasy and spicy foods, quit smoking and alcohol, engage in moderate exercise to strengthen immunity, and practice good personal hygiene to prevent spreading the virus to others.