Is ascites caused by liver cirrhosis contagious?

Ascites due to liver cirrhosis itself is not directly contagious; its transmissibility depends on the underlying cause of cirrhosis. If cirrhosis is caused by viral hepatitis (such as hepatitis B or hepatitis C), these viruses can be transmitted through blood, mother-to-child transmission, sexual contact, and broken skin or mucous membranes. However, cirrhotic ascites resulting from alcoholic liver disease, autoimmune liver disease, or similar non-infectious causes is not contagious. Therefore, when in contact with patients who have ascites due to liver cirrhosis, it is important to understand the specific cause and take appropriate protective measures to avoid unnecessary risks.