Hep C and sexual transmissionOriginally Published: March 13, 1998 - Last Updated / Reviewed On: November 15, 2011 |
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Several years ago I contracted Hepatitis C from a blood transfusion. I am a female and was wondering the likelihood of transmitting it to my boyfriend during intercourse. What precautions can we take? Can it be transmitted during oral sex?
-C
The hepatitis C virus is spread mainly through contact with an infected person's blood and blood products via:
- Blood transfusions or organ transplants (particularly before 1992, when blood was not routinely screened for hep C)
- Unsterilized or inadequately sterilized needles (from sharing I.V. needles for drugs or by an accidental needle-stick)
- Exposure through cuts, wounds, and medical injections (this includes getting body piercing or tattoos with contaminated equipment)
Among the hepatitis viruses, hep C carries with it the lowest risk of sexual transmission, especially unlikely when in the context of a monogamous, long-term relationship. It can happen, as can transmission from mother to child during birth, but both are uncommon occurrences. It would also be unlikely to transmit the hepatitis C virus through oral sex.
If other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are not a concern to you and your boyfriend, the use of condoms is not absolutely necessary. If you want, you and your boyfriend can consult with your health care provider for her/his advice. However, this is a matter of personal choice — if you or your boyfriend feel safer and more relaxed using condoms, then there's your answer.
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