Hepatitis C Virus and Breastfeeding

It is scientifically proven that breast milk is an irreplaceable source of nutrition and plays a fundamental role in the healthy growth and development of infants. In our articles, we consistently emphasize this and always promote the importance of breastfeeding.

However, in our practical work as breastfeeding counselors, we occasionally receive questions from mothers such as:

“I have the Hepatitis C virus. Can I breastfeed my baby in this case?”

In such cases, providing mothers with reliable information based solely on scientific evidence is of particular importance to us. Supporting mothers on this topic is one of our primary objectives. Therefore, the main purpose of writing this article is to present the results of scientific research to mothers in a more understandable and accessible way.

The key point we need to clarify: is breast milk always safe and beneficial for infants of mothers with Hepatitis C infection?

Yes! Research shows that a mother infected with the hepatitis C virus can breastfeed her baby. According to the recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics, transmission of the virus occurs primarily through blood, especially with direct blood-to-blood contact. Therefore, hepatitis C is not considered a reason to discontinue breastfeeding.

A review of large-scale studies conducted in the United States between 1947 and 2012 indicates that the presence of the Hepatitis C virus in an infant is due to vertical transmission from the mother. This kind of infection can occur during cesarean or vaginal delivery (in approximately 6 out of every 100 births). However, breastfeeding is neither a cause of viral transmission nor an indication to discontinue breastfeeding.

When can breastfeeding be considered risky if the mother has the virus?

• If you have nipple cracks or bleeding from the nipple
• If you have mastitis or any inflammatory infection in the breast
• If the baby has any sores or cuts in the mouth

In such cases, it is essential to temporarily pause breastfeeding.

How can you know if your baby has the virus?

This can only be determined through a blood test. All infants born to mothers infected with the virus should undergo blood testing at the 8th week of life. However, in many cases, doctors may also perform the test after the 18th month, because sometimes the virus may not be detectable in the blood until 12–18 months of age, even if the infant is infected. There are several laboratory tests that babies need to undergo.

Anti-HCV Test

This is the first screening test performed on your child. It detects whether antibodies against the hepatitis C virus are present and indicates whether the child has been exposed to it. If the result is positive, further testing is required to determine whether the child is actually infected.

HCV-RNA Test

This test is performed if the anti-HCV test is positive. It detects the presence of the virus itself (RNA) in the child’s blood. A positive result indicates that the child has an active hepatitis C infection.

Viral Load Test

This test determines the amount of virus in the child’s blood. When doctors confirm a hepatitis C diagnosis, they use this test to track the effectiveness of treatment. If a doctor diagnoses your child with the Hepatitis C virus, you should take several key steps.

Your child should:

• Be regularly monitored by a physician
• Undergo routine blood tests
• Follow the medication regimen prescribed by the doctor.

With modern medical approaches, Hepatitis C is a treatable condition. If your healthcare provider detects the virus, it is crucial to remain under continuous medical supervision and work closely with them.

Author: Hajar Piriyeva
Breastfeeding Consultant