Objective: The rising prevalence of hepatitis C infections among individuals of reproductive age further emphasizes the importance of evidence-based management of hepatitis C virus (HCV) during pregnancy to minimize perinatal transmission and to optimize maternal and fetal outcomes. In this review, we discuss the most recent recommendations on the management of HCV in pregnancy, including recommendations for screening and treatment during pregnancy and the postpartum period, as well as infant management to reduce perinatal transmission of HCV.
Recent findings: Current guidelines recommend universal HCV screening during each pregnancy. With varying guidance regarding the use of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) during pregnancy, recent studies have focused on the safety and efficacy of DAA initiation during pregnancy. Additionally, there has been an increased focus on improving treatment rates in the postpartum period through innovative linkage to care efforts, telemedicine, and additional efforts reducing barriers to care for patients.
Keywords: HCV screening; direct-acting antivirals; hepatitis C virus; perinatal transmission.
© The Author(s) 2024. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of The Journal of the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society. All rights reserved. For commercial re-use, please contact [email protected] for reprints and translation rights for reprints. All other permissions can be obtained through our RightsLink service via the Permissions link on the article page on our site—for further information please contact [email protected].