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Hepatitis B In Women And Pregnancy

Healthcare for Women, LLC -  - OB-GYN

Healthcare for Women, LLC

OB-GYN located in Near West Suburbs of Chicago, Oak Park, IL

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that primarily affects the liver. It is part of a group of viruses known as the hepatitis viruses and they share some similarities, but they are caused by different viruses and they have different characteristics. 

Hepatitis B (HBV)

  1. Causative Agent: Hepatitis B is caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV) which is a member of the Hepadnaviridae family.
  2. Transmission: HBV is promarily transmitted through contact with infected blood and other body fluids. This can occur through unprotected sexual contact, sharing of needles, and from an infected mother to her newborn during childbirth. 
  3. Acute and Chronic Infection: HBV infection can be acute or chronic. Acute infections are short-term illnesses that can lead to symptoms such as fever, fatigue, and jaundice. Chronic infection can last a lifetime and significantly increase the risk of developing liver cirrhosis or liver cancer.
  4. Vaccination: There is an effective vaccine for hepatitis B, which is a crucial preventive measure. Vaccination is recommended for infants, healthcare workers, and individuals at risk of exposure.
  5. Prevention: Hepatitis B can be prevented by practicing safe sex, avoiding sharing of needles or personal items that may be contaminated with blood, and getting vaccinated. 

Screening and early detection are crucial for manging and teating both infections effectively.