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Pregnancy and breastfeeding with hepatitis B

Key facts

  • Hepatitis B is a liver infection caused by catching the hepatitis B virus.
  • It's recommended that everyone should be tested for hepatitis B as part of routine pregnancy screening.
  • Your pregnancy shouldn't be affected by having hepatitis B, but you may pass it to your baby during pregnancy or birth.
  • Vaccines can help prevent the spread of the virus and are available as part of standard vaccination schedules.
  • If your doctor has diagnosed you with hepatitis B, ask them how to keep your baby safe.

    • What is hepatitis B?

    Hepatitis B (also known as 'hep B') is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus. It can be passed to your baby during pregnancy or birth.

    How is hepatitis B spread?

    Hepatitis B (Opens in new tab) spreads through contact with body fluids from someone with the virus. This includes:

    Children can get hepatitis B if they have a cut and have contact with someone with the virus.

    Other ways to become infected are:

    What are the symptoms of hepatitis B?

    Symptoms of hepatitis B infection include:

    You may notice symptoms of hepatitis B a few weeks or even months after you get infected. Some people have the virus and don't get any symptoms. They can still pass on the infection.

    Complications of hepatitis B infection are severe liver disease (Opens in new tab) and liver cancer (Opens in new tab).

    When should I see my doctor about pregnancy and hepatitis B?

    The routine pregnancy screening tests include a check for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). This test shows if you have a current infection.

    If you're in an 'at risk' group for getting hepatitis B the following tests are recommended:

    • hepatitis B surface antibody (anti-HBs)
    • hepatitis B core antibody (anti-HBc)

    Ask your doctor to explain the results.

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    How is hepatitis B treated?

    Treatment for hepatitis B infection includes antiviral medicines and regular monitoring. Antiviral medicines can lower the amount of hepatitis B in your blood before your baby is born.

    LOOKING FOR A MEDICINE? — To search by brand or active ingredient, use the Medicines information search feature.

    Will hepatitis B affect my pregnancy?

    Your pregnancy shouldn't be affected by having hepatitis B, but you may pass the virus to your baby during pregnancy or birth.

    How do I prepare for labour and birth?

    If you have hepatitis B, your doctor will monitor your viral load (amount of virus in your blood) during pregnancy.

    They may prescribe medicine to help lower the chance of your baby becoming infected.

    Will my hepatitis B diagnosis affect my baby?

    Most babies don't catch hepatitis B.

    Your doctor will also offer to give your baby an injection of hepatitis B immunoglobulin (antibodies). Your baby's immunity will be checked at 9 months old.

    All babies can get 4 doses of hepatitis B vaccine as part of the National Immunisation Program (Opens in new tab). You will be able to care for your baby normally at home.

    Your baby's first hepatitis B vaccine is usually given before they leave hospital — ask your midwife for more information.

    Is it safe for me to breastfeed if I have hepatitis B?

    Yes — you can safely breastfeed with hepatitis B, as long as your baby has their recommended vaccinations.

    What are the complications of hepatitis B?

    If your hepatitis B is not treated, your baby has a very high chance of getting the virus at birth. If your baby becomes infected, they are very likely to develop chronic hepatitis B.

    How can I reduce the risk of passing on the virus to my baby?

    You can lower the chance of passing the virus to your baby by taking antiviral medicines.

    It's very important to vaccinate your child against hepatitis B. This is free, as part of the National Immunisation Program (Opens in new tab). It's very important that your baby has all their recommended vaccinations on time.

    Resources and support

    If you are concerned about hepatitis B affecting your baby call Hepatitis Australia (Opens in new tab) on 1800 437 222.

    Hepatitis NSW has a useful factsheet on hepatitis B, pregnancy and babies (Opens in new tab).

    To learn more about childhood vaccinations, visit:

    Languages other than English

    Information for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples

    Hepatitis NSW has a useful booklet on hepatitis B (Opens in new tab) developed for Aboriginal communities.

    Speak to a maternal child health nurse

    Call Pregnancy, Birth and Baby to speak to a maternal child health nurse on 1800 882 436 (Opens in new tab) or video call. Available 7am to midnight (AET), 7 days a week.

    Last reviewed: September 2025

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