Is it safe to breastfeed if I have hep C?

Yes, so long as you don't have cracked or bleeding nipples.

You can't pass hepatitis C on through breast milk. But if you have a cracked or bleeding nipple, stop breastfeeding on that breast.  And talk to a midwife.

If you want to take medicine for hepatitis C after pregnancy (and after you've stopped breastfeeding), talk to your doctor. You can't take these medicines while you're pregnant or breastfeeding. Your doctor can tell you about the benefits and harms.

Find out more about how to stop yourself from getting hepatitis C

Find out more about hepatitis C treatment

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References

Management of Hepatitis C in pregnancy. RANZCOG

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Updated 6 March 2023