Recent Advances in the Epidemiology, Screening, and Management of Hepatitis C Virus Infection in Pregnancy

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) affects an estimated 58 million people worldwide, with rising rates among women of reproductive age. This trend has important implications in pregnancy, as HCV infection can lead to adverse maternal outcomes, mother-to-child transmission, and adverse neonatal outcomes. The perinatal period is a critical time both to identify cases of HCV infection and to initiate treatment, as patients have greater access to care during this time. There has been a guideline shift from risk-based screening for HCV in pregnancy to a universal screening approach. Additionally, several clinical trials are evaluating the use of direct-acting antiviral therapy in pregnancy, with preliminary results demonstrating safety and efficacy. This article discusses the epidemiology of HCV and its implications on pregnancy outcomes, as well as the most recent guidelines on screening and treatment.