Hepatitis C Support Group

Hepatitis C is a blood-borne viral disease which can cause liver inflammation, fibrosis, cirrhosis and liver cancer. The hepatitis C virus (HCV) is spread by blood-to-blood contact with an infected person's blood. Many people with HCV infection have no symptoms and are unaware of the need to seek treatment. Hepatitis C infects an estimated 150-200 million people worldwide.

426 Members
21,304 Posts
0 Online
Gastrointestinal System
/ Hepatitis C Support Group

Mothers, Do you have your kids tested?

Brigid13
Brigid13
I was told the chance of maternal transmission is only 3% so not to worry. I had two children, breastfed them, and didn't worry. Then I saw an old post here from someone who got it from his mother and is furious. Do you test your kids? What happens if they have it? My kids are 5 and 8 and don't get blood drawn (They each did a couple times to test for lead when they were very young but probably don't remember) or even get vaccinations. Just the thought I may have given it to them feels unbearable.
deleted_user
deleted_user
I had both my children tested, my daughter was negative and son came up positive. After further testing my son was only positive for anit-bodies and not the virus, thank God!!! You should have your children tested, better safe than sorry!
deleted_user
deleted_user
I was dx in 08/11 and have a 12 year old and an 8 year old. Neither one has been tested yet. My doc told me to do it if I wanted a peace of mind. I will have them tested when they are older. My 12 year old would ask to many ?s and I would rather wait. I am waiting for better treatment for myself and would do no less for them, so there is no point yet.
deleted_user
deleted_user
I know of at least 2 people whose child does have it. Not saying that to cause fear but one is 18 and her disease has progressed very rapidly to be so young. Because of her case, I would have my child tested.

My son is neg but I contracted after I had him. My hubby's mother has it (don't know when she contracted) plus we've been married 10 yrs. He's neg.
deleted_user
deleted_user
To add to Nealy, children exhibit the same signs as an adult. So, like an adult, a child can progress to liver failure before one is aware of the problem . Tough decision, not as easy when they are young. Ages 1 and 4 not a problem, but 5 and 8.. .. different. Tough weighing the odds.
deleted_user
deleted_user
I also just went ahead and had the entire family tested, just for the peace that they are all ok was worth it to me.