Hepatitis
Hepatitis, which means inflammation of the liver, has various causes. These include infections, alcohol and some types of medication. Hepatitis can be hard to spot but can cause health problems and damage to the liver if left untreated. On this page we will give some information about sexually acquired viral hepatitis (Hepatitis A, B and C)
How it’s caught
Hepatitis A, B and C can all be sexually transmitted, but in different ways, and some are more easily passed on by sex than others.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is spread via the digestive tract from contaminated food, but can also be spread by some types of intimate sexual contact such as anal fingering and rimming.
Hepatitis B & C
Hepatitis B & C can both be spread through sharing needles and sexual contact. Hepatitis B is very infectious and can be easily spread by all types of sex. Hepatitis C has been linked to certain types of sex between men but can also be passed on through heterosexual sex. Hepatitis C is harder to catch through sex than hepatitis B but it is still possible.
Symptoms
Most people will notice no symptoms, especially in the early stages of the virus. It is possible to have hepatitis B or C for many years without any symptoms but during this time you can still pass on the infection and it can still cause damage to your liver.
Testing
Testing for Hepatitis is done through a blood test.
Treatment
There is no cure for Hepatitis A, but vaccination can help prevent infection for those who are at higher risk,. Some people with Hepatitis B may naturally get rid of the virus themselves and others may require treatment which in some cases can clear the virus. Hepatitis B can also be prevented by vaccination [hyperlink to vaccination/prevention page]. Hepatitis C can be treated with antiviral medication.
More information about hepatitis
More information about STI prevention and vaccinations
