Protecting Your Baby from Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a liver infection that often has no symptoms in its early stages. Many adults only discover they have Hepatitis B during routine health screenings.

Prevention, however, can begin even before a baby is born.

Prenatal Screening and Early Protection
As part of standard prenatal care in the United States, pregnant individuals are routinely tested for Hepatitis B. This includes checking for active infection and immunity.

If a pregnant person tests positive for Hepatitis B, steps can be taken to significantly reduce the risk of passing the virus to the baby during childbirth (known as vertical transmission).

Protecting Newborns at Birth
Newborns of mothers with Hepatitis B should receive protection within the first day of life:

• Hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG): Provides immediate antibodies to help prevent infection
• Hepatitis B vaccine: Starts building the baby’s own long-term protection

These interventions are safe and highly effective in preventing transmission.

Follow-Up Care for Infants
After completing the vaccine series, infants should receive a blood test around 9–12 months of age to:

• Confirm protection (immunity)
• Ensure there is no infection

Additional care or treatment may be recommended if needed.

Why Early Prevention Matters
Early prevention is critical because infants and young children who become infected are more likely to develop chronic Hepatitis B, which can lead to serious liver disease later in life.

Talk to Our Care Team
If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, we encourage you to see our doctors for Hepatitis B screening and prenatal care. Parents should also follow up with our pediatricians to ensure their child receives timely vaccination and appropriate follow-up testing.

To learn more or schedule an appointment, please call 1-628-228-2828.

Disclaimer: No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.