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Hepatitis B
Three types of hepatitis can be sexually transmitted, but the type that is most likely to be sexually transmitted is hepatitis B (HBV). Hepatitis B is an infection in the liver caused by the hepatitis B virus and can be spread through semen, vaginal fluids, blood and urine. Roughly 46,000 women, men and children become infected with HBV each year. There is a vaccination available for hepatitis B.
There is no cure for HBV, but the infection often goes away on its own. Although 90-95 percent of adults with HBV recover completely, about 5-10 percent of people who get HBV as adults will be carriers and will have chronic infection with HBV, which can result in severe liver disease and even death.
Common Symptoms
Most people with chronic HBV have no symptoms, but common symptoms include:
- Fatigue (extreme tiredness)
- Tenderness and pain in the lower abdomen
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Pain in the joints
- Headache
- Fever
- Hives
- Dark urine and or pale-colored bowel movements
- Jaundice—yellowing of the skin and eyes
Testing and Treatment
Testing and treatment for hepatitis B is not available at PPIN health centers.
- Testing: A blood test can identify the hepatitis B virus.
- Treatment: There is no medical cure for HBV, but the symptoms can be treated. Most people will recover within 6-8 weeks, and treatment within two weeks of exposure can prevent or lessen infection.
Reduce your risk: Practice safer sex!
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Gonorrhea
