Dear Alice,
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
Dear 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.
For more information, read the Related Q&As listed below.
- Alice
Related Q&As
- Blood transfusion changes my DNA?
- HIV from a needle stick?
- Hepatitis C
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Hep C and sexual transmission
