Publication:

Pattern of hepatitis B and C infection among gravid women and their newborns in a tertiary care infirmary in India

Background The objective is to determine the prevalence of the hepatitis B and C virus among pregnant women, to assess impact of maternal hepatitis B virus (HBV) or hepatitis C virus (HCV) carrier status on pregnancy outcomes and to gauge the risk factors associated with them. Antenatal clinic attenders and women undergoing termination of pregnancy over three years.

Methods The study was conducted in Gian Sagar Medical College & Hospital, Patiala, Punjab, India. Hepatitis B antigen and Hepatitis C virus antibody testing of sera from specimens sent to the hospital laboratory for routine serological testing. The results were then linked to risk information, obstetric complications and pregnancy outcome.

Results Overall HBsAg and anti-hepatitis C antibody prevalence was 1.2% (33/2031). Increased risk of transmission was associated with sexually transmitted diseases and previous surgical procedures. High rates of preterm labor pains, CD (27.27%), and non-reassuring fetal heart rate patterns and meconium stained liquor were found in the seropositive patients.

Conclusions Maternal hepatitis B and C carrier status is an eminent risk factor for adverse pregnancy outcome.