Pregnancy and hepatitis E
The information on this page is for:
- Adults with Hepatitis E or suspected Hepatitis E
- Family, friends, carers, and healthcare professionals.
On this page:
Pregnancy and hepatitis E in the UK
Pregnancy does not seem to increase the risk from the type of hepatitis E (type 3) that is most common in the UK. Around the world, there have only been a few cases of type 3 hepatitis E in pregnancy.
Pregnancy and hepatitis E in other parts of the world
In other parts of the world, hepatitis E can be a very serious problem in pregnancy. Especially if it is picked up in the last 3 months of pregnancy (third trimester).
Type 1 hepatitis E is common in parts of Asia, Africa and South America. It can be very dangerous during pregnancy and can lead to liver failure and even death. It can also be passed on to the baby and increases the risk of miscarriage, still birth and premature birth.
If you are pregnant, and you are travelling to an area where hepatitis type 1 or 2 are common you should take action to avoid picking up the virus. Make sure you wash your hands well before eating and only drink bottled water.
Find out more about reducing your risk of getting hepatitis E here.
If you think there is any risk you could have picked up hepatitis E you should see a doctor as soon as possible for a test.
Support
How Liver UK can help
A diagnosis of liver disease can be worrying, and you may have a lot of questions.
We're here for you and for your family and friends. Whether you have questions or just need someone to listen, we can help.
Your feedback
This content was last reviewed: November 2023
Our expert reviewers:
We would like to thank everyone who helped with creating and reviewing this page. Including Professor Stephen Ryder, consultant hepatologist at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS trust and Dr Ahmed Elsharkawy, consultant hepatologist. And all our patient reviewers.
Find out how we make our patient information.
Everyone’s experience of liver disease will be different. Always talk to your specialist medical team for personal advice.
More from Liver UK
Check your risk
Find out more
Support us
Find out more
Keep up to date
Find out more