Pregnancy and Hepatits C

[Karen31587]

Hi! I'm 11.5 weeks pregnant with my first child. I was recently told that I tested positive for active Hepatitis C. I never did any type of drug, have no tattoos and have never had a blood transfusion. I have had surgeries (on TMJ, a cystectomy, and my left ovary removed). I've also gone through fertility treatment. Does anyone have this that didn't do any of the typical markers for contracting the virus? Also, any advice or help with being pregnant with this would be greatly appreciated. I'm so scared and just so unsure what this means for me and my baby.

[Fairytella]

I'm an RN who worked as a case manager. My job was non clinical. I am also in school to be a Nurse Practitioner so now its hands on during my internship, which means being exposed to blood and other fluids. I get tested every year because of my job. I am married, never had a needle stick at work, always follow universal precautions. I do have tattoos and got a new one (a total of 3) a few months ago and just tested +HCV. Although I do have risk factors, work and tattoos, I am devastated with the recent diagnosis. I've always known how easy it is to get HCV as a health provider and most likely you got it from one of your surgeries. I know that I had to get it from my last tattoo.

[SurfsideGal]

Which tests did you have? If it was just an antibody test, you need an HCV/RNA test (viral load) to confirm whether you have the actual virus. If you have had that and they found actual virus in your blood, then you do have hep C. Your baby will be born with the antibody. However, only 5% of babies born with the antibody will go on to have the actual virus. 95% of babies will lose the antibodies by the time they are between 12-18 months of age. The baby can also be tested with the HCV /RNA test if you need to know before if he/she is infected. There is nothing you jneed to do to protect your baby. You can even breastfeed if you want to.

The good news is there is a cure for almost everyone. Once you are done having children, you can take the treatment. Try not to worry and enjoy this time in your life.