Hepatitis C in Pregnancy in the Era of Direct-acting Antiviral Treatment: Potential Benefits of Universal Screening and Antepartum Therapy

Abstract

Hepatitis C in pregnancy is on the rise, and new direct-acting antiviral agents are available that cure the disease. Published recommendations need to be reviewed and clinically evaluated for the care of pregnant women who are at risk for or have chronic hepatitis C. Available evidence and some of the medical and ethical reasons to consider universal screening and antepartum therapy for hepatitis C during pregnancy are presented. Universal screening and proactive treatment during pregnancy is on the horizon, and these measures should be quickly evaluated for safety and implemented if appropriate.