We're planning to have a baby this year. My husband is a Hepatitis B carrier. I have taken my Hepatitis B jab more than 5 years ago. In my recent blood tests, results show my Hepatitis B count is active, but on a decreasing trend. My blood test last October showed 56 counts while the recent one in June this year showed 43 counts.

If this trend continues, do I need to take the jab again, and do I need to abstain from sexual intercourse after having the jab? Will my taking the jab again affect our chances of conception?

-Katharine Lim

Dr Fong Yoke Fai, consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at the National University Hospital, replies:
I suppose that you were referring to the Hepatitis B antibody count. Generally, a Hepatitis B antibody count of more than 10 is considered as protective following immunization.

Although Hepatitis B antibody levels may decline over time, immune memory remains intact indefinitely following immunization. Persons with declining antibody levels are still protected against clinical illness and chronic disease.

Therefore booster doses of hepatitis B vaccine are not recommended routinely for persons who are not immune compromised (source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, US Department of Health and Human Services).

Neither pregnancy nor breastfeeding should be considered a contraindication to vaccination of women. On the basis of limited experience, there is no apparent risk of adverse effects to developing fetuses when hepatitis B vaccine is administered to pregnant women.(source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, US Department of Health and Human Services).

Most doctors in Singapore would suggest delaying pregnancy for a short period following vaccination, mainly to observe for any side effects of the vaccine. Such vaccinations should not have any impact on fertility.

Got a question on your reproductive health? Email it to us at Just Woman and we will get Dr Fong Yoke Fai, a consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at the National University Hospital to reply.