Hepatitis B
Updated:Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver and can be transmitted through sexual contact. It's caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and can lead to both acute and chronic liver disease. While it's not exclusively a sexually transmitted infection (STI), sexual transmission is a common route, especially through unprotected sex with an infected partner.
Additional Information
Hepatitis B can be spread through blood, semen, and other body fluids. It's much more infectious than HIV and can survive outside the body for at least 7 days. Symptoms may include fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain, and jaundice, but many people don't experience any symptoms, especially in the early stages. A safe and effective vaccine is available to prevent hepatitis B infection.
Examples
Using condoms consistently during sexual activity to reduce the risk of hepatitis B transmission
Getting tested for hepatitis B as part of routine sexual health check-ups, especially if engaging in unprotected sex with new partners