Can mothers with hepatitis B breastfeed?
Mar 08, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yu Yongqin
Introduction
Breastfeeding is permissible for mothers with hepatitis B, but several key considerations must be addressed:
First, the mother’s hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA level must be assessed before initiating breastfeeding.
Second, if the HBV DNA level is low, breastfeeding is considered safe.
Third, interventions to prevent mother-to-child vertical transmission also include antiviral therapy initiated during the third trimester—specifically between weeks 24 and 28 of pregnancy.
With continuous advances in scientific and medical knowledge, women with hepatitis B can give birth to hepatitis B–free babies by implementing appropriate prevention measures. However, many mothers with hepatitis B face a common concern: whether they can breastfeed their infants after diagnosis. So, can mothers with hepatitis B breastfeed? Let’s explore this topic further.
Can mothers with hepatitis B breastfeed?
Yes, breastfeeding is generally safe for mothers with hepatitis B—but certain precautions must be observed:
First, the mother’s hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA level must be assessed before initiating breastfeeding. If the HBV DNA level is very high, breastfeeding is not recommended due to the potential risk of HBV transmission.
Second, if the maternal HBV DNA level is low, breastfeeding is considered safe. In addition, the infant should receive timely interventions to prevent mother-to-child transmission—specifically, administration of hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG) and completion of the full, scheduled hepatitis B vaccination series.
Third, prevention of vertical transmission also includes evaluating, during the third trimester (weeks 24–28 of pregnancy), whether antiviral therapy is indicated. If the maternal HBV DNA level is ≥2 × 10⁶ IU/mL, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) is recommended. After birth, the infant should receive HBIG and the first dose of hepatitis B vaccine within 24 hours. This strategy achieves >95% efficacy in preventing mother-to-child transmission, and under these conditions, routine breastfeeding is safe and encouraged.
We hope the above information is helpful to you.
