Which hepatitis is noted as being dangerous during pregnancy?

Hepatitis E is particularly noted as being dangerous during pregnancy due to its high mortality rate in pregnant women, especially during the third trimester. The virus is primarily transmitted through contaminated water, and while it is often benign in the general population, it poses significant risks to pregnant individuals. The incidence of acute liver failure in pregnant women with hepatitis E can lead to severe outcomes for both the mother and the fetus, including increased likelihood of miscarriage, stillbirth, and maternal death.

In contrast, while hepatitis B can also pose risks during pregnancy, especially regarding vertical transmission to the fetus, the overall fatality rate is lower compared to hepatitis E. Hepatitis C has less of an acute impact during pregnancy and is not typically associated with high maternal morbidity or mortality. Hepatitis A, on the other hand, usually presents as a self-limiting illness and is less dangerous in pregnancy, as it does not lead to chronic infections or significant complications. This makes hepatitis E the most dangerous type of hepatitis during pregnancy due to the severity of the disease and its effects on maternal and fetal health.